Polar Code Introduction

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency developed by the United Nations, and throughout the regulation, it is referred to as "the Administration." The IMO is responsible for the safety, security, and environmental impact of international shipping. The Polar Code was developed to address issues specific to the remote areas and harsh climates of the two poles. These conditions make for vulnerable vessels, at a time when forecasts indicate that polar shipping is expected to increase. In order to best protect polar environments, ships, and their crews, the IMO has refined regulations in respect to the unique risks undertaken by vessels traversing the Arctic and Antarctic waters. Some of these unique risks are as follows:

• Poor weather conditions
• A lack of reliable charts, communication systems, and navigational aids
• The remoteness of the area
• The difficulty of clean up and rescue operations
• The ability of the machinery and equipment to operate effectively in cold temperatures
• Ice loads on the structure of the vessel

The Polar Code extensively covers every topic applicable to ships operating in polar waters, such as the following:

• Design
• Construction
• Equipment
• Operation
• Training
• Search and Rescue
• Environmental protection

Instituting these regulations reduces the probability of large-scale accidents while increasing preparedness onboard vessels. Both of these results translate to better outcomes for crew and passengers.

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