DNV GL Approves First Polar Code Compliant Vessel

DNV GL and the Danish Maritime Authority have confirmed that the AHTS Magne Viking, owned by Viking Supply Ships, is in compliance with the IMO Polar Code – an industry first for the classification society.
 
The 85-meter (280-foot) Magne Viking, built in 2011, is a high Ice-classed AHTS vessel capable of operations in harsh environment offshore regions, as well as Arctic/Sub-Arctic operations.

Ships operating in the Arctic and Antarctic are exposed to a number of unique risks. Poor weather conditions and the relative lack of good charts, communication systems and other navigational aids pose challenges for mariners. The remoteness of the areas makes rescue or clean-up operations difficult and costly. Cold temperatures may reduce the effectiveness of numerous components of the ship, ranging from deck machinery and emergency equipment to sea suctions. When ice is present, it can impose additional loads on the hull, propulsion system and appendages.

A risk-based approach to regulation is well-established now at IMO and has been incorporated into the Polar Code.

Based on long experience from Arctic operations in low temperatures and ice covered waters, Viking Supply Ships saw value in the Polar Code and decided to implement it early on. The process has included upgrades to the vessel and equipment as well as providing the required documentation.

“As this vessel was already winterized and built for operation in cold climate, most of the additional requirements in the Polar Code were already fulfilled before we started the implementation process,” says Andreas Kjøl, Project Director at Viking Supply Ships.

The IMO Polar Code is mandatory for all SOLAS vessel entering Arctic and Antarctic waters from 1 January 2017. The Code is an add-on to existing IMO codes where the main requirements are related to safety (SOLAS) and protection of the environment (MARPOL).