Earlier this year (2017), new polar water regulations were rolled out that will affect the shipping industry and ships operating in Arctic and Antarctic waters. These waters pose special threats, mainly from ice and icy conditions ship operators need to take into consideration to ensure their vessels are fully compliant with the new code.

The new requirements focus on every aspect of a ship’s operations, stability, structure, and safety, as well as what training the crew has received. The code applies to specific vessels based on their classification as either:

Keep in mind, the International Polar Code does not apply to all ships operating in these waters. Expectations are made for ships weighing less than 500 metric tons, fishing ships, and structures that are fixed in place.

Prior to entering Arctic and Antarctic waters, ships that must satisfy the rules and regulations contained within the International Polar Code must be certified. To learn more about the new code and how it could affect your operations, equipment, and crew in polar waters, please continue reviewing the following infographic.