The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters, commonly known as the Polar Code, is a ship-focused code with specific provisions that enhance the design, operations, and equipment standards of vessels operating in Arctic and Antarctic waters. The Polar Code will enter into force on Jan. 1, 2017, and is divided into two Parts.
11/22/2016: Proposed Rulemaking – Polar Ship certificates
The Coast Guard seeks comment on a notice of proposed rulemaking that would add the new Polar Ship Certificate to the list of certificates required to be carried on board all U.S. and foreign-flagged vessels subject to SOLAS which operate in Arctic and Antarctic waters. The proposal also enables recognized classification societies to issue these certificates on behalf of the Coast Guard.
9/15/2016: Public listening session – Heavy fuel oil in the Arctic
The Coast Guard announced an upcoming public listening session on the topic of heavy fuel oil use by ships in the Arctic. The purpose of this public listening session is for the Coast Guard to gather information on issues relating to the use of heavy fuel oil by ships in the Arctic.
2/10/2016: Guidelines for training of personnel on ships subject to the Polar Code
The Coast Guard published a policy letter to provide guidance for the training of personnel on ships subject to the international code for ships operating in polar waters and provide a level of safety taking into account the challenges specific to the unique polar environment.
7/28/2015: IMO Polar Code background and update from Arctic symposium
Read a summary of remarks from a Coast Guard Polar Code expert at a recent symposium. Highlights include the Polar Code boundary, standards for ice strengthening, Polar Water Operations Manual, challenges in polar waters and Arctic marine casualties.
