Phased roll-out planned for OCIMF’s SIRE 2.0

There will be four stages rather than a single ‘go-live’ switch between the current SIRE (VIQ7) and new SIRE 2.0.

Unlike the existing SIRE questionnaire, the SIRE 2.0 software selects questions from a comprehensive question library based on the type of vessel, its outfitting and data provided by the vessel operator to create a bespoke risk-based inspection questionnaire completed in real-time by inspectors using a tablet device. As no two inspections will be the same, vessel operators, crew and inspectors must be prepared to be assessed on all potential questions.

Inspectors will also now report on hardware, processes and human factors, and, for the first time, observations may also be supported with documentary and photographic evidence (where permitted). As a result, the inspection process will significantly expand the depth and quality of marine assurance data gathered.

The roll-out of the new program will occur over four stages to allow for comprehensive testing and interrogation of the system, with a review of critical success factors needing to be confirmed by the OCIMF membership before moving to the next stage.

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 program users. The goal is to allow all submitting companies, vessel operators and program 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Phase 4: SIRE VIQ7 withdrawn – SIRE 2.0 launches and replaces the existing SIRE system as the commercial tanker inspection programme.

Training resources, including documentation, factsheets and familiarisation videos developed to meet the needs of each participant group (vessel operators, programme recipients, inspectors and officers/crew) can be downloaded and used onboard ships or integrated into in-house training programs. Submitting companies, program recipients and operators are strongly encouraged to use these pre-recorded and subtitled presentations as a tool for aiding understanding and expectations of SIRE 2.0 inspections.

Karen Davis, Managing Director, OCIMF, added: “Digitalising the inspection process has been a challenging undertaking, but we are confident the new and significantly enhanced SIRE 2.0 will tangibly improve safety within the marine industry. We’ve received very positive feedback from inspectors, programme users and industry partners throughout the development of SIRE 2.0 and will continue to work closely with all stakeholders during the transition phases and beyond.”

Since its launch in 1993, OCIMF’s SIRE tanker inspection programme has become central to supporting safety and best practice in the marine industry, with approximately 165,000 SIRE reports downloaded since inception providing industry with a reliable tool for assessing vessel safety and quality.

Aaron Cooper, OCIMF’s Programmes Director, explains: “SIRE 2.0 has been developed to future-proof against the continuously evolving nature of risk within the maritime industry. While based on the existing programme – which has proven highly effective in improving tanker safety – it is a very different regime. OCIMF recognises that moving from SIRE to SIRE 2.0 is a significant change for all parties involved in the programme and the roll-out of the new inspection regime must reflect the readiness of the program, as well as all programme participants.”