Contingency planning involves compiling information that is used as a basis for responding to emergency situations. Together with training, a plan significantly improves the ability of a company or agency to respond effectively and efficiently to an incident. Health and safety concerns, organizational aspects, contacts, and response procedures and equipment are commonly addressed. Contingency planning is a dynamic endeavour that requires ongoing input to accommodate changing circumstances, technologies and personnel.

Contingency plans are commonly made available in hard copy format but increasingly they are also being stored and distributed electronically. This is increasing the portability and accessibility of the information. A contingency plan may also be referred to as a response plan.