OCIMF published its annual report for 2023 outlining its work during last years, its programmes, and some information about the changes that SIRE 2.0 will bring. OCIMF has been working to upgrade and future-proof this safety-critical inspection scheme to ensure it can be adapted more readily to account for emerging risks, new technologies and updated regulations.

The SIRE 2.0 tanker inspection reporting scheme continued its development through 2022 to bring the existing programme in line with the evolving needs and requirements of the marine industry. The new regime, SIRE 2.0, will supersede the existing SIRE programme when it becomes fully operational in 2023.

In August 2022, the implementation strategy for SIRE 2.0 was closely reviewed with the membership and the decision was taken, endorsed by ExCom, to adopt a phased roll out plan. SIRE 2.0 is a significant change and it is vital that industry is fully prepared before full alignment with the new programme commences.

Phase 1: SIRE 2.0 internal testing
One-month User Acceptance Testing involving the OCIMF Secretariat and vessel operators who have previously been involved in SIRE 2.0 trial inspections. The goal is to rigorously test the full end-to-end reporting process.

Phase 2: Beta test of full end-to-end process
A two-month testing period with optional participation from invited parties, with a goal to test the end-to-end process without assistance from OCIMF.

Phase 3: Unlimited beta test of full end-to-end process
A four-month transition period allowing participation for all programme users. The goal is to allow all submitting companies, vessel operators and programme recipients to use and familiarise with the SIRE 2.0 system prior to full launch.

Phase 4: SIRE VIQ7 withdrawn
SIRE 2.0 launches and replaces the existing SIRE system as the commercial tanker inspection programme.

Key outcomes for industry
SIRE 2.0, in short, brings this crucial inspection programme into line with how the industry and people work today and will ensure that the programme itself can more readily evolve in line with the constantly changing risk profile of the marine industry.

"The new reporting scheme is not just an upgrade to the existing programme; it is a complete overhaul – and its success relies on changing the mindset of all involved in how they prepare for, conduct and use the results of SIRE 2.0 inspections. Vessel owners, operators, managers and charterers, as well as third party vetting companies and inspectors will need to consider re-evaluating their approach to vessel inspections and vetting",
OCIMF highlights.

Key amendments and additions under SIRE 2.0

• Use of tablet devices to digitalise the inspection reporting process and expand the depth and breadth of reporting capabilities, including supporting photographs and evidence.
• Enhanced inspection criteria on equipment, procedures, and human factors, to further improve control over vessel safety systems and processes.
• Significantly improved software system to deliver a risk-based, bespoke Compiled Vessel Inspection Questionnaire (CVIQ) tailored to each inspection with graded responses.
• Additional pre-inspection processes and more robust monitoring protocols on the inspection process to enhance transparency.
• Use of real-time reporting to allow inspections and feedback to be reported and documented in real-time and to allow inspections to be completed more efficiently.
• Revised and updated policies, procedures, and user guidance housed in an online process documentation library.
• Robust governance processes to provide greater transparency and control for all parties involved in the programme, either directly or indirectly.
• Significant enhancements to training and continuing development of inspectors to ensure the highest standard of delivery is maintained and improved.

Source: Safety4sea

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	Issue 84 of Robban Assafina (March/ April 2023)