Polar Code Standards

There are a few performance standards mandated by the Polar Code.

At a minimum, ship systems and equipment must meet the same performance standards referred to in SOLAS regulations. For an in-depth examination of these SOLAS standards, refer to the SOLAS regulation, which can be obtained from the IMO or its representatives.

There are many calculations to take into consideration when operating in polar regions. Calculating the mean daily low temperature is critical in these applications. In order to make this calculation, the following process is used:

1. Ascertain the daily low temperature for each day for a ten-year period. This information can be found in the archives of various meteorological institutes.
2. Calculate the averages of those daily temperatures.
3. Plot the averages over the course of a year.
4. Take the lowest of each average for the season of operation.

When a ship is going to operate in a low air temperature climate, the polar service temperature (PST) must be specified. The PST is calculated taking into account the mean daily low temperature, then reducing that temperature by a minimum of at least 10 degrees Celsius.

When a ship is operating in a low air temperature climate, the onboard survival systems and equipment must be able to fully operate at the PST during the maximum expected rescue time.

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