New Arctic safety guidelines

(Posted on 11/11/19)

Maritime trade between Arctic destinations and the rest of the world is expected to expand and an increasing number of ships are now undertaking voyages in polar waters. Technical developments in ship design and equipment continue to facilitate more and more ship operations in remote polar areas, despite challenging and unpredictable sea and weather conditions.

The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code), adopted by the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), requires shipping companies intending to operate in polar waters to develop a Polar Water Operational Manual (PWOM) in order for their ships to be issued with a Polar Ship Certificate.

New joint guidelines from the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) aim to support shipping companies by providing advice on how to develop a PWOM that best suits their needs.

Appendix II of the IMO Polar Code already provides a model PWOM. ICS and OCIMF have recognised that additional guidance is necessary to help shipping companies to develop a quality PWOM that is truly fit for purpose.

In extreme conditions, and especially in ice, the way in which a ship is operated is critical for safety and environmental protection.

The purpose of the new Guidelines is to provide the means for shipping companies and Masters to develop a comprehensive PWOM tailored to the needs of their individual ships, taking into account the environmental hazards and the nature of their operations.

Guidelines for the Development of a Polar Water Operational Manual has been prepared by expert contributors with in-depth experience of operating ships in polar waters, as well as knowledge of the challenges faced by seafarers on board.

Topics addressed include: identifying hazards; understanding operational limitations; updating procedures; upgrading equipment and systems; understanding relevant legislation and ensuring that the results of assessments are fully addressed in the PWOM.

Available free of charge, the ICS/OCIMF Guidelines can be downloaded from the ICS and OCIMF websites and the Arctic Shipping Best Practice Information Forum (ASBPIF) web portal.

Latest News

DNV and WMMF guide to support shipowners' path to net-zero

The maritime industry is experiencing a period of significant transformation, driven by rapidly evolving... Read more

NorthStandard takes prudent position on P&I premiums

NorthStandard has advised Members of a 5% increase in P&I premiums for the marine insurance year... Read more

Anemoi completes Rotor Sail installation on NS United bulk carrier

Anemoi Marine Technologies, the UK-based leading designer of Rotor Sails for wind-assisted ship propulsion... Read more

LR and Marshall Islands certify Helm CONNECT electronic record books

Helm Operations has announced that nine electronic record books within Helm CONNECT Logbook have been... Read more

Sailors’ Society launches increased support for Chinese seafarers

International maritime welfare charity Sailors’ Society has announced a significant expansion... Read more

NORDEN signs two-year contract with US wood pellet producer

NORDEN has signed a two-year Contract of Affreightment (COA) with Enviva to transport a significant... Read more

Algoma reports strong core results and continued fleet growth

Algoma Central Corporation has reported its results for the three and nine months ended 30 September... Read more

Damen unveils Combi Freighter 5000 ICE

Damen Shipyards Group has unveiled the latest platform in its successful cargo vessels portfolio. The... Read more

Wallem Group reaches a century in Hong Kong

Wallem Group, a leading global maritime partner, is celebrating the centenary of moving its headquarters... Read more

INTERCARGO celebrates record membership ahead of 45th Anniversary

The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) is marking its 45th anniversary in... Read more