OCIMF Releases Guidance on Developing a Polar Water Operational Manual
Ships operating in polar regions are exposed to a number of unique risks that challenge mariners.
New guidelines from OCIMF are designed to help shipping companies and Masters develop a Polar Water Operational Manual (PWOM) that is suitable for individual ships, environmental conditions and operation.
Vessels intending to operate within the defined polar regions must develop a ship-specific PWOM which outlines the ship’s capabilities and limitations.
The manual should include risk-based procedures on topics such as:
- Voyage planning
- The potential lack of reliable chart information
- Methods for gathering weather information
- Any additional equipment requirements
- Any procedures required for machinery and equipment to ensure it remains operable in polar conditions
- Emergency contact for the polar regions the vessel will be operating in.
The OCIMF guidance can be downloaded here.
North has also released guidance on the requirements of the Polar Code which can be located here.