Designed for the 2026 Updated Polar Code Requirements

On 1 January 2026, the updated IMO International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) will come into effect, in alignment with the latest amendments to the SOLAS Convention and China’s national standard GB/T 46090-2025 for polar life-saving equipment. The updated requirements further expand the scope of applicable vessels: cargo ships of 300 GT and above, fishing vessels of 24 metres and above, and yachts of 300 GT and above operating on polar ice routes are required to carry compliant PSK Personal Survival Kits and GSK Group Survival Kits in sufficient quantity.

As many vessels are now entering peak periods for annual surveys, dry-docking and Port State Control (PSC) inspections, missing equipment, non-compliant performance or expired survival supplies may lead to vessel detention, corrective actions, penalties and operational delays. Polar compliance upgrade has become a practical and urgent requirement for shipowners worldwide.

The WRLEADING Polar PSK/GSK Survival Kit is a high-quality solution for shipowners preparing for the updated polar requirements. With CCS low-temperature certification, Norwegian-imported core components and stringent Nordic quality standards, the kit has been recognized by multiple Norwegian shipowners.

The full WRLEADING PSK/GSK range holds dedicated low-temperature certification from CCS – China Classification Society and has successfully passed full performance testing under -50°C extreme cold conditions. Compared with ordinary survival kits that only meet basic SOLAS requirements, WRLEADING products are better suited for harsh polar environments, including extreme cold, strong winds, high humidity and salt-spray conditions. They help prevent inspection risks caused by poor frost resistance, reduced protection performance or equipment failure. During annual surveys, PSC inspections and polar operation compliance checks, WRLEADING kits provide stable compliance support and help shipowners reduce detention and rectification risks.

Each kit is equipped with Norwegian original emergency food, providing sufficient energy supply for crew survival for up to 72 hours after abandoning ship. Compared with the commonly seen five-year shelf life in the industry, the emergency food supplied by WRLEADING has an extended seven-year shelf life and is individually waterproof-sealed, offering excellent resistance to moisture, freezing and salt spray. It is suitable for long-term onboard storage and helps reduce replacement frequency, repeated procurement, onboard replacement work and manual verification costs, while also lowering compliance risks caused by overlooked short-term expiry.

The complete PSK/GSK solution is equipped with HANSEN TPA Thermal Protective Aid products from Norway, designed for extreme scenarios such as ice-water exposure and wind-induced hypothermia. The products are vacuum-packed, durable, easy to maintain and space-saving, supporting routine onboard storage, inspection and emergency access. An upgraded HANSEN SeaPass option is also available, offering one-hour thermal protection and compatibility with polar lifejackets. Infant, child and adult sizes are available, with a service life of up to 10 years.

Backed by Norwegian technical expertise and global marine safety experience, WRLEADING’s complete solution is compatible with major maritime standards and requirements, including SOLAS, Polar Code, DNV, MED and USCG. It can support maritime inspection requirements in China, Norway, Singapore and other regions, with complete certificates and documentation available.

As the 2026 updated polar requirements take effect, WRLEADING will continue to support global shipowners with high-standard certification, premium configurations and long-term service advantages, helping vessels complete polar compliance upgrades efficiently and strengthen their safety readiness for polar navigation.

The polar compliance window is now open. For product configuration, certification documents or project solutions, please contact:

sales@wrleading.com