1 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its ninety-fourth session (17 to 21 November 2014),
adopted the new chapter XIV of SOLAS and the International Code for Ships Operating in
Polar Waters (Polar Code), by resolutions MSC.386(94) and MSC.385(94), respectively. In accordance with
the Polar Code, new and existing ships operating in polar waters shall have on board a
valid Polar Ship Certificate establishing operational limitations, including limitations
related to ship structural ice capabilities.
2 The Polar Code also requires that information on ship-specific capabilities and
limitations in relation to the assessment required under section 1.5 of the Polar Code
be included in the Polar Water Operational Manual (PWOM).
3 The annexed guidance addresses the development of methodologies for the assessment of
operational limitations in ice which may be referenced on the Polar Ship Certificate and
which may form part of information on ship-specific capabilities and limitations
included in the PWOM.
4 This guidance has been issued as "interim guidance" in order to gain experience in its
use. It should be reviewed four years after the entry into force of the Polar Code in
order to make any necessary amendments based on experience gained.
5 In the meantime, Member States and international organizations are invited to report on
their experience with the use of the guidance to the Maritime Safety Committee under the
agenda item "Any other business".
6 Member States are invited to bring the annexed guidance to the attention of all parties
concerned.