KR Webzine Vol.139

The Polar Code was adopted by Res.MSC.385(94) and Res.MEPC.264(68) to make the requirements of “the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Water” (the “Code”). The Code, which entered into force on 1 January 2017, became a mandatory instrument under both SOLAS and MARPOL. That is to say, the safety-related requirements became mandatory under the new chapter XIV of SOLAS and the marine environment protection related requirements became mandatory under amendments to Annexes I, II, IV and V of MARPOL.

The Code allows category C cargo ships operating in limited polar waters occasionally to apply mitigated requirements of the Code in accordance with Polar Code I-A/1.3.3.

 
This requirement may be applicable to cargo ships operating in limited polar waters only during the summer season. Therehas been an increase in the number of polar voyages under these conditions this summer.

Shipowners and operators considering polar voyagesshould note the attached technical information.