We are ready for the IMO Polar Code with specialised LSA for extreme conditions The Polar Code which entered into force on 1st January, 2017 has brought about a huge sea change for many companies in the shipping industry. It stipulates that the potential risks must be assessed and mitigated to prove compliance with the code for each journey in the polar region. Forecasts indicate that polar shipping will grow and diversify over the coming years and the Code, brought in by the International Maritime Organization, sets out mandatory requirements that cover a wide range of design, construction, equipment, operational, training and environmental protection matters. They include protective thermal clothing, ice removal equipment, enclosed lifeboats and the ability to ensure visibility in ice, freezing rain and snow conditions. Norsafe was the first LSA supplier to have executed full scale tests and trials during the joint stakeholder SAREX (Search and Rescue expedition) in April 2016 with various stakeholders including the Norwegian Coast Guard, Norwegian Maritime Authorities and ABS. Using a standard Norsafe Miriam 8.5 lifeboat, the expedition simulated a full scale escape, evacuation and rescue operation, to accommodate a minimum five-day survival with the lifeboat acting as a habitat, in ice-infested waters, 80 degrees north of the Barentz Sea. During this scenario, a risk assessment method was established to gain full understanding of the potential issues involved. 2 Full scale tests and trials In readiness for the introduction of the code, Norsafe has placed a strong focus on understanding and solving the issues surrounding the safe operation of life saving appliances (LSA) in polar conditions. The company has performed a number of full-scale tests and exercises in both simulated and realistic conditions in order to document product performance and mitigate potential risks associated in these hostile environments. In addition, Norsafe conducted tests to address lifecycle issues with LSA equipment which may be exposed to polar conditions. This included a full-scale study to determine how to avoid the loss of warmth from a heated lifeboat in conditions of minus 30°C. Full scale test studies were also carried out to test the performance of installed sprinklers when used in icy conditions. In April 2017 Norsafe returned to Spitzbergen, Norway, to participate in a second Polar Code trial arranged by the Norwegian Maritime Authority, to complete further testing of the product adaptations and
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