The Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation has delegated the authorities on surveying RF flagged ships for compliance with the Polar Code to the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS), RS says.
Upon the order of Russian maritime authorities, RS will survey passenger and cargo ships and floating structures registered with State Register of Ships, Bareboat Charter Register, Russian International Register or Newbuilding Register.
RS is also entitled to approve documentation, perform surveys and issue polar ship certificates. Polar Code requiremens will be applicable from January 1, 2017 to vessels built by this date and after it. Vessels built before this date should comply with Polar Code not later than their first or intermediate survey after January 1, 2018.
Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is one of the world’s leading classification societies. RS was founded in 1913. Since 1969 RS has been a member to the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). RS is recognized by the European Union, Maritime Administrations of 70 Flag States. RS activities are aimed at enhancing maritime safety standards, ensuring safety of life at sea and marine environment pollution prevention.
Russian Maritime Register of Shipping - is a recognized world leader in classification of vessels itended for operation in challenging ice conditions. At present, RS-classed fleet consists of more than 3000 ice ships.
In May 2015, the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 68) adopted the environmental part of the Polar Code. Internationally binding regulations on navigation in polar waters become effective from 1 January 2017.