Description

Polar Code, 2016 Edition (I191E)

The Polar Code Book is a practical reference for ship operators, Masters, and maritime professionals working in polar waters. This polar waters safety guide explains key safety, navigation, voyage planning, training, and pollution prevention requirements for ships operating under the Polar Code.

What is the Polar Code Book?

The Code acknowledges that polar water operation may impose navigational demands beyond the existing requirements of SOLAS, MARPOL and any relevant binding IMO instruments. The key principles for developing the Polar Code have been to use a risk based approach in determining scope and to adopt a holistic approach in reducing risks. Detail is given on ship structure to ensure integrity is retained in ice conditions and during both global and structural loads. Although the Code is intended to apply to both Arctic and Antarctic waters, the legal and geographical differences between the two areas have been taken into account.

This polar waters safety guide supports a stronger understanding of modern navigational practice for masters, especially where voyage planning and bridge procedures become more demanding in remote waters. It also complements collision avoidance and COLREGs, which remain critical when operating in harsh environments and reduced visibility. For vessels and crews preparing for cold and high-risk conditions, readers may also benefit from guidance on cold water survival and practical emergency response and salvage at sea.

What You Will Learn from the Polar Code Book

Contents listing:

MSC.385(94) International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code)

MEPC.264(68) International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code)

Part 1A Safety measures
Chapter 1 General

Chapter 2 Polar Water Operational Manual (PWOM)

Chapter 3 Ship structure

Chapter 4 Subdivision and stability

Chapter 5 Watertight and weathertight integrity

Chapter 6 Machinery installations

Chapter 7 Fire safety/protection

Chapter 8 Lifesaving appliances and arrangements

Chapter 9 Safety of navigation

Chapter 10 Communication

Chapter 11 Voyage planning

Chapter 12 Manning and training

Part 1B Additional guidance regarding the provisions of the Introduction and Part 1A

Part 2A Pollution prevention measures

Chapter 1 Prevention of pollution by oil

Chapter 2 Control of pollution by noxious liquid substances in bulk

Chapter 3 Prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form

Chapter 4 Prevention of pollution by sewage from ships

Chapter 5 Prevention of pollution by garbage from ships

Part 2B Additional guidance regarding the provisions of the Introduction and Part 2A

The Polar Waters Safety Guide helps readers understand the operational and environmental requirements for ships navigating in Arctic and Antarctic waters.