Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'?

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key PointsPolar Code:

• The Polar Code came into force on 1 January 2017.
• The International Maritime Organization has adopted a mandatory Polar Code to provide for safe ship operation and environmental protection in the polar regions. Hence, Option 1 is correct.
• If you operate a SOLAS or MARPOL ship in Arctic or Antarctic waters, then your ship will need to comply with all or part of this Code.
• The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (the Polar Code) is a new code adopted by the IMO.
• The Code acknowledges that polar waters may impose additional demands on ships beyond those normally encountered.
• It provides a mandatory framework for ships operating in polar waters.
• The main requirements are related to safety, protection of the environment, and seafarer competence, and it is implemented through amendments to International Maritime Conventions such as SOLAS, MARPOL, and the STCW.
• IMO's International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) is mandatory under both the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
• The Polar Code covers the full range of environmental protection matters relevant to the design, construction, equipment, operation, training, search and rescue, and ships operating in the inaccessible waters around the two poles.
• The Polar Code applies to certain ships that will operate on domestic or international voyages in Arctic or Antarctic waters.