Requirements & Regulations - Ship Communications

In order for ships to be in compliance with the Polar Code requirements, they must have two-way voice and/or data communication between ships as well as ship-to-shore for the entirety of the intended operating route. They must also have the following provisions:

• A suitable means of communication when expecting an escort or convoy operations
• A means for two-way on scene and search and rescue coordination, including aeronautical frequencies
• Communication equipment that allows for telemedical assistance

The additional limitations of communications in high latitudes and low air temperatures need to be factored in when supplying a vessel with proper communication systems. The requirements for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore capabilities must still be met.

Icebreaking escort vessels must be equipped with a sound signaling system facing astern in order to indicate escort and emergency maneuvers to ships that are following them. There is further information about these signals in the International Code of Signals, and it is linked in the additional resources to this course.

In order to meet the requirement for two-way on scene and SAR coordination and communication, ships must have the ability to communicate with relevant rescue coordination centers via voice and/or data and have equipment that allows for communication with aircraft on 121.5 and 123.1 MHz.

Communication equipment designed for Telemedical Assistance Service must allow for two-way voice and data communication.

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