Emergency Response

This chapter is broken into three subchapters:

• Damage control
• Firefighting
• Escape and evacuation

When operating in the polar regions, there is the possibility of encountering several hazards. In this chapter of the PWOM, the focus is to create and maintain procedures that increase the effectiveness of emergency response measures.

Damage control

Damage control measures must be discussed in the PWOM. Topics should include the following:

• Emergency transfer of liquids
• Access to tanks and spaces during salvage operations

Firefighting

The Polar Code does not give any guidance as to what this subchapter entails; however, an effective firefighting plan must be included. In this area you should find information that includes the following:

• Location of firefighting equipment
• General vessel layout
• Firefighting procedures for different areas of the vessel
• Any further pertinent information

Escape and evacuation

The PWOM must include guidance on the use of the equipment provided for escape and evacuation. In this subchapter provision for training and drills should be made.

Supplementary or specialized life-saving equipment must be carried on board. Appropriate equipment is carried to deal with the possibilities of a prolonged period of time while waiting for rescue, or the potential of having to abandon ship onto ice or land.

To learn more about Polar Code visit our Polar Code Online Training web page.