New joint guidelines for Polar waters operation have been released by the ICS and OCIMF.
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 Polar Code, adopted by the 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) were aimed at
supporting 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.
However, the ICS and OCIMF recognised that additional guidance is
necessary to help shipping companies to develop a quality PWOM that is
truly fit for purpose.
The new Guidelines purpose 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.
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