The IMO International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) applies to all ships when operating in polar waters and the Polar Code enters into force on 1 January 2017. As the Code includes additional requirements to both SOLAS and MARPOL, the application requirements for different parts of the Code differ.
Part IIA contains requirements that can usually be met with shipboard operations – no structural modifications are necessary. Operators of ships and offshore assets in polar waters from 1 January 2017 should ensure that existing procedures and manuals are updated to reflect Polar Code requirements by this date.
The key requirements in Part IIA are:
- Zero discharge of oil and oily mixtures when operating in polar waters.
- Zero discharge of noxious liquid substances.
- Additional limitations above MARPOL Annex IV requirements for discharge of sewage.
- Additional limitations above MARPOL Annex V requirements for discharge of garbage.
Infomration above has been provided by the Lloyd’s Register and for information, please see Lloyd’s Register’s guidance documents at www.lr.org/polarcode.
Member Alert is published by The Swedish Club as a service to members. While the information is believed correct, the Club cannot assume responsibility for completeness or accuracy.