Under what condition should all chamber occupants be brought to the surface during an emergency?

The decision to bring all chamber occupants to the surface during an emergency primarily hinges on the urgency of the situation. If no more time is available, it indicates an immediate threat, necessitating a rapid response. This situation may arise in cases such as equipment failure, medical emergencies, or environmental hazards that compromise the safety of the occupants significantly.

In such critical moments, taking swift action can prevent further risks to health and safety. While factors such as oxygen levels, signs of hypoxia, and carbon dioxide retention are important considerations, they might not always demand emergency ascent if there’s still time to manage the situation within safe parameters. Conversely, when time is of the essence, prioritizing the ascent becomes crucial, thereby highlighting the need for immediate evacuation regardless of other conditions that may still be salvageable.