Entry into force of the Polar Code Members are referred to our previous circular No.15-001 dated 15 April 2015.    The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (“the Polar Code”), adopted by the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (“MSC”) in November 2014 and also adopted by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (“MEPC”) in May 2015, will enter into force on 1 January 2017.    The Polar Code covers the full range of design, construction, equipment, operational, training, search and rescue and environmental protection matters relevant to ships operating in waters surrounding the two poles.  The Polar Code also includes both mandatory and recommended provisions for safety and pollution prevention.   For the members’ reference, the IMO’s relevant article is as below.   http://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/polar/Pages/default.aspx