Implementation of the international code for ships operating in polar waters (Polar Code)

The international code for ships operating in polar waters (Polar Code) was agreed in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and is mandatory under both the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS) (Chapter XIV) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 (MARPOL). In accordance with its international obligations, the UK is now in the process of implementing the provisions of Chapter XIV of SOLAS and the safety provisions in the Polar Code (which is incorporated into SOLAS by reference to it in Chapter XIV) into domestic law.

The Polar Code applies to ships operating in polar waters. It covers the full range of design, construction, equipment, operational, training, search and rescue and environmental protection matters relevant to ships operating in the inhospitable waters surrounding the two poles. The proposed regulations apply to United Kingdom ships, and also to non-United Kingdom ships commencing or ending a voyage in the United Kingdom and as part of that voyage operating in polar waters.

The move to develop a mandatory code followed the adoption by the IMO Assembly, in 2009, of guidelines for ships operating in polar waters (Resolution A.1024(26)), which were intended to address those additional provisions deemed necessary for consideration beyond existing requirements of the SOLAS and MARPOL Conventions. The guidelines were recommendatory.

However, the safety of ships operating in the harsh, remote and vulnerable polar areas, and the protection of the pristine environments around the two poles, have always been matters of concern for the IMO. Trends and forecasts indicate that polar shipping will grow in volume and diversify in nature over the coming years. These challenges need to be met without compromising either safety of life at sea, or the sustainability of the polar environments.