Abstract: Emergency escape platform apparatus including an escape platform disposed in spaced apart relation from a drilling platform and joined to the drilling platform by escape bridge apparatus. Two flexible base cables are connected in tension horizontally adjacent between the escape platform and the drilling platform. Two flexible hand cables are connected in tension horizontally adjacent to one another and vertically adjacent respectively above the base cables. A plurality of vertical spacer bars are vertically connected between a respective base cable and a respective hand cable at selected intervals. Cable tensioning apparatus connects the base cables and the hand cables for maintaining the cables under selected tension while permitting relative movement between the escape platform and the drilling platform. Light weight walkway structure is horizontally disposed between and connects the base cables to provide a walkway for individuals between the drilling platform and the escape platform.