1 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its 101st session (5 to 14 June
2019), approved the Guidance for navigation and communication equipment intended
for use on ships operating in polar waters, as set out in the annex,
prepared by the Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue
(NCSR), at its sixth session (16 to 25 January 2019).
2 The Maritime Safety Committee, at its ninety-seventh session (21 to 25
November 2016) had instructed the NCSR Sub-Committee to consider the current
navigation and communication requirements in the SOLAS Convention and the need for
any amendments, taking into account the extended duration requirements in the
International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code).
3 The aim of this Guidance is to enhance the safety and efficiency of
navigation and communication equipment intended for use on ships operating in polar
waters by giving recommendations on general requirements and specific performance
standards for navigation and communication equipment.
4 Member States and international organizations are invited to bring the
Guidance to the attention of all parties concerned.