OCIMF begins phased roll-out of new SIRE 2.0 tanker inspection programme

The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has begun the phased roll-out of its new digitalised tanker inspection programme, SIRE 2.0, which will replace the existing Ship Inspection Report Programme (SIRE) used by the marine industry to assess a vessel’s condition and operational standards.

SIRE 2.0 is being rolled-out in four phases, with Phase 1 of the transition now in progress and showing successful results. Phase 1 is the internal testing stage whereby a pre-selected group of inspectors, submitting companies and vessel operators test the entire end-to-end system with the support of the OCIMF secretariat.

Aaron Cooper, OCIMF’s programmes director, said: “The commencement of Phase 1 of the new SIRE 2.0 tanker inspection programme represents a significant step forward for all involved in tanker vetting. The phased roll-out was adopted in response to feedback from all stakeholders and ensures the readiness of the programme and its users. I am delighted to report that feedback from Phase 1 so far has been positive.”

SIRE 2.0 has overhauled the way inspections are carried out and involves the introduction of tablet-based inspections, dynamic question sets, increased focus on the human element, a more comprehensive inspection process and enhanced policies and procedures.

As a digitalised programme, SIRE 2.0 can be easily updated to bring it in line with new regulations and technology to future-proof the inspection process in the years to come and brings significant changes to how tankers of all sizes are assessed by inspectors.