Maritime regulators are working to establish international standards for safe travel in Arctic and Antarctic waters. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is leading the charge to develop and implement the Polar Code. These regulations eventually will serve as a mandatory, international code for all vessels operating in polar waters.Polar Code: Why the need for an international code? In implementing the Polar Code, the IMO seeks to provide a standardized means to address all safety...

Freefall lifeboats offer the quickest way for maritime workers or passengers to escape a platform or vessel in the event of an emergency, such as an onboard explosion or fire. Such boats are designed for use with a release system that ensures a swift escape, even from relatively high elevations. The enclosed design protects those aboard at the point of contact with water.The nature of such boats demands a high set of safety standards. As such, freefall lifeboats are subject to a number of...

A barge is a flat-bottomed vessel used primarily for the transportation of goods, vehicles or cargo. Most barges are not self-propelled and require the assistance of a tug or towing vessel. Each barge is designed to maximize available space for cargo and provide stability during transportation.An Overview of the Primary Types of BargesAmong the most common types of barges in use in the United States and abroad include: Dry bulk cargo barges – Designed to transport large quantities of dry cargo,...

Piracy and vessel hijackings are a growing international safety and financial concern. The International Chamber of Commerce’s Commercial Crime Services report there were 12 worldwide incidents of piracy within the first 21 days of 2014 alone.Federal and international governments and safety experts routinely issue safety guidelines and updates on pirate activity. These warnings should be heeded in the interest of avoiding a hijacking, kidnapping or hostage situation. However, even with careful...