IMO Polar Code Information

IMO has adopted the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) by means of amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

The Polar Code entered into force on 1 January 2017 and is is intended to cover the full range of shipping-related matters relevant to navigation in waters surrounding the two poles – ship design, construction and equipment; operational and training concerns; search and rescue; and, equally important, the protection of the unique environment and eco-systems of the polar regions.

The following explanatory graphics and videos are replicated from the IMO website. Further important information is detailed on the Polar Code section of IMO's website, including information on the second phase of the Polar Code.






IMO in the polar environment: the Polar Code explained:



IMO in the polar environment: Search and Rescue

Guidance on Surveys:

• Note IMO Circular 16 December 2016 (MSC.1/Circ.1562)

Guidance on methodologies for assessing operational capabilities and limitations in ice

• Note IMO Circular 6 June 2016 (MSC.1/Circ.1519) 

Interim guidelines on life-saving appliances and arrangements for ships operating in polar waters.

• Note IMO Circular 26 June 2019 (MSC.1/Circ.1614)

 

Training of Seafarers
Resolution MSC.416(97), adopted on 25 November 2016, containing amendments to the STCW Convention, 1978 , including amended regulation I/1.1 adding definitions of “Polar code” and “Polar waters”, amended regulation I/11 requiring continued seagoing service for masters and officers for the continued professional competence for ships operating in polar waters, amendments to chapter V of the STCW Convention (Regulation V/4 on “Mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualifications of masters and deck officers on ships operating in polar waters”).

This led to the development of IMO model course on Basic and Advanced Training for ships operating in polar waters (see image).

 

Further information on Polar Code (second phase):

• Resolution A.1137(31), adopted on 16 January 2020, Interim safety measures for ships not certified under the SOLAS Convention operating in polar waters
• Guidance for navigation and communication equipment intended for use on ships operating in polar waters (MSC.1/Circ.1612, June 2019). See Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), 101 session, 5-14 June 2019.