SIRE 2.

0:
Frequently Asked Questions

The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF)

Vision: A global marine industry that causes no harm to people or the environment.
Mission: To lead the global marine industry in the promotion of safe and environmentally responsible
transportation of crude oil, oil products, petrochemicals and gas and to drive the same values in the
management of related offshore marine operations. We do this by developing best practices in the design,
construction and safe operation of tankers, barges and offshore vessels and their interfaces with terminals
and considering human factors in everything we do.
2 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Contents

Glossary 6

General and SIRE 2.0 7

Does SIRE 2.0 include barges and offshore vessels? 7
How is it perceived that doing the inspection on a tablet will make
the actual inspection any better or more effective? 7
What is OCIMF’s plan to explain SIRE 2.0 to ship’s operator and crew? 7
If the average number of inspections are hoped to be reduced,
how many inspections per vessel per year is envisaged under the
new regime? 7
What will the interval of the inspections be now with SIRE 2.0? 7
Can inspectors continue to inspect vessels in the same way as they
have done for years and then complete the questionnaire later? 7
What is required to ensure flawless data integration from SIRE 2.0
to a member company’s system? 7
Will new system have question risk ratings? 8
Will there be a comparison between the new and old version? 8
If there are variable questionnaires for the same vessel, how
would this be seen as a consistent measure against each vessel?
How will companies benchmark vessel performance or analyse
trends related to findings/areas of concern when the inspection
questions set will be different for each inspection. 8
How does OCIMF plan to ensure SIRE 2.0 manages the effect of COVID? 8
Can OCIMF expand on the human factor enhancements in SIRE 2.0? 9
Are there any plans to enforce the rest hours for the inspectors under
SIRE 2.0, especially in cases where there is extensive travel required
for inspections? 9

Tablets/Hardware/Software 9
What model tablet is proposed? 9
What is the expected lifespan of the battery? 9
Will Inspectors be provided with a way to safely carry the tablets?
Will there be a bag to accommodate the tablets? 9
Is the tablet being provided with a pen for touchscreen purposes? 10
Is there a separate keyboard? 10
Are the tablets Ex proof? 10
Will there be periodic checks conducted on the tablet being used
by the inspector to confirm whether it is intrinsically safe?
If yes, then what will be the procedure? 10
What if the inspector loses the tablet? Will there be an alternative
for the inspector to continue work? Can the inspector carry on
without a tablet? 10
If tablet crashes in the middle of the inspection, does the tablet
save whatever is recorded at that point of time? 10
Who pays for the tablet? 11
3 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

What operating system does the tablet run on? Can it handle
Microsoft Word and Excel format? Many submitting members
require observation lists to be left and these are principally Word
documents. Will the tablet be able to be used for email? 11
Will the tablet be rain-proof and provided in a waterproof resistant bag? 11
In cold weather battery life is considerably reduced, does the tablet
come with a spare battery? 11
How will OCIMF send the tablets overseas? Due to the COVID-19
pandemic situation, it is not possible to travel, and some countries
have customs restrictions to send this type of electronic equipment. 11
How do the export control restrictions work? 11
Why can’t inspectors use their own intrinsically safe device with an
in-built app? 11
How will the tablets be protected against the risk of cyber-attacks? 11
When will inspectors receive their tablets? 12
Is the completion of the questionnaire done in offline mode or is
this via 4/5G? If by 4G/5G would this not be a large amount of data? 12

Pre-Inspection 12
Is all the required information from the operator going to be entered
prior to the booking code being issued? 12
How much longer do you expect the booking process to take,
given the additional information which will be required? 12
What is the timeframe for a CVIQ to be submitted before the vessel
is attended by the inspector? 12
Will inspectors be able to see the previous inspections on the vessel
to be inspected? 12
Is this system going to change the way inspections are scheduled
or will things be issued the same way they currently are? 13
Will the inspection be assigned to the individual inspector or to
the inspecting company who employs the inspector? 13
Will HVPQ be revised to accommodate new operators, updates or
vessel data i.e., standard photos included in the HVPQ? 13
Can multiple inspection requests be accepted at once or one after
another? How will inspectors be allocated under SIRE 2.0? 13
What notice is required to change the inspector if he/she cannot attend? 13
Will there be a set questionnaire published like the present VIQ7
for SIRE 2.0? 13
How can a company participate in the early review of the questions? 13
Will the vessel have a copy of the SIRE 2.0 question set prior to the
inspector visiting the vessel? 13

Inspection 14
How much time will be needed for the inspection or how much time
will be allowed? 14
How will you define the timing used for the inspection on the new
SIRE 2.0 app, time for preparation and app time used on board for
the actual inspection? 14
Is there flexibility in the system to account for last-minute delays or
issues that require inspectors to be switched at short notice? 14
4 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tablet need to be online throughout the inspection? 14

Are inspectors required to answer all questions during inspection
on board with comments? 14
Filling in the questionnaire as an inspector goes around the ship will
not be as simple as it sounds – has this been taken into account? 15
Will SIRE 2.0 be applicable with the remote inspections programme? 15
Masters and Chief Engineers are tasked with doing Performance
(Human Factor) Reviews after contract completion of 2 to 6 months.
Is OCIMF asking SIRE inspectors to do this after an 8-hour inspection? 15
With 2.0, will the Vessel’s Senior Management Team have the
opportunity to challenge any observation(s) before it is uploaded
on the platform? How will SIRE 2.0 allow for discussion of
observations prior to finalisation of the report? 15
Can the inspector record an interview with the crew during the
inspections? 15
Will inspections still be possible in the offshore environment, STS etc? 15
Will an inspector verify random actual certificates when aboard? 16
What is the contingency in case that vessel does not have a
Wi-Fi printer or because cyber security tablet cannot connect to
print report? 16

Post-Inspection/Report Writing 16
Will there be a facility for recording observations on a topic not
covered, i.e., a catch all question for entire chapters? 16
Presumably, operators would still be required to respond to
observations raised in a SIRE 2.0 inspection. Is there any proposal
to involve the inspector concerned in reviewing the responses? 16
Will there be the possibility to amend observations and comments
after the report has been saved? 16
If a paper-based system is used as alternate mode of inspection,
how will inspectors transfer/submit the report? Would inspectors
have to re-type everything back on the tablet? 16
Can two or more ship inspection reports be run in parallel? 16
Must the report be completed and submitted onboard? 16
With the tablet and writing the responses onboard – will there no
longer be a requirement to write the report afterwards? 17
With SIRE 2.0 being enhanced, how long from inspection would it
be for the report to be concluded, for the participant to review
the vessel? 17
How long will a SIRE 2.0 inspection report remain valid for? Will it
be more than six months and, if so, would this be implemented
by OCIMF to be valid for all OCIMF members? 17
Will SIRE 2.0 include a selectable list of immediate and root causes
for assisting the operators in responding to observations and for
purposes of data mining? 17
What about inspections that due to vessel port stay restrictions
must be completed during night-time? 17
Will operators have access to pictures and comments made by the
inspector during the inspection? 17
5 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Inspector Training and Accreditation 18

Have COVID restrictions been taken into account to deliver the
SIRE 2.0 programme in time, especially the five days of training,
and what kind of refresher training is required to finally approve
an inspector? 18
Where and when will inspectors receive training for SIRE 2.0? 18
Will inspectors have to book their own training dates? 18
Are all inspectors required to go through an audited inspection? 18
How long is the SIRE 2.0 accreditation valid for? Would the current
accreditation expiry date be automatically extended until the
five-day training programme? 18
For the existing SIRE programme, the inspector is subject to a
physical audit every 3 years. With SIRE 2.0, will this process remain
the same? 18
My accreditation expires in Sep 2022. Will I be audited and accredited
for SIRE or SIRE 2.0? 18
How will inspectors be trained to use the tablet? 18
On the assessment is there any Pass or Fail? 19
Will any of the current inspectors or auditors become Quality
Assessors? 19

Photographs 19
How are inspectors expected to take photographs? It is not wanted
by the Oil Companies if the vessel is loading or discharging. 19
Will photos for the observation be taken on the tablet? 19
Does SIRE 2.0 require any mandatory photo report taken using the
tablet during the inspection? Can photos be added into observations? 19
Is there an expectation that photographs are to be uploaded every
time before the SIRE 2.0 inspection? 19
What happens if latest photos are not available at the time of
the booking? 19

Terminals 20
What if a terminal does not allow electronic equipment? 20
Will inspectors receive letters of authorisation to use the tablets
and take photographs? 20
6 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Glossary

Certificate Repository An on-line OCIMF database holding electronic copies of vessel trading
certificates and documents, provided by the vessel operator.
Compiled Vessel Inspection Questionnaire (CVIQ) A unique, vessel-specific set of questions
compiled for each vessel inspection.
Harmonised Vessel Particulars Questionnaire (HVPQ) Questionnaire for documenting and
communicating permanent and infrequently changing information relating to a vessel, its
construction, outfitting and certification.
Inspection Compiler OCIMF software that uses algorithms to select questions from the SIRE
Question Library to create a unique vessel-specific VIQ for each inspection.
Inspection Declaration A declaration, made by the vessel operator that all data, photographs,
and certificates provided in connection with a SIRE inspection are accurate, complete and in
accordance with the instructions provided.
Inspection Editor An OCIMF proprietary software application loaded onto the Inspection
Tablet that allows an inspector to gather and record information during an inspection, including
photographs, and create a SIRE report.
Inspection Tablet A dedicated, intrinsically safe tablet computer used by the inspector solely to
complete a SIRE inspection.
Performance Influencing Factors Performance Influencing Factors is a collective term for
those factors that are known to influence or shape human performance. They can enhance and
assist human performance, or they can degrade and obstruct it.
Photograph Repository An on-line OCIMF database holding photographs of vessels, provided
by the vessel operator.
Pre-inspection Questionnaire (PIQ) An on-line questionnaire, completed by the vessel
operator, providing information about the vessel, and supplementing the Harmonised Vessel
Particulars Questionnaire (HVPQ).
Question types:
• Core – Minimum questions required to meet the fundamental risk assessment criteria, as
defined by OCIMF.
• Rotational – A non-core question assigned to a vessel on an occasional basis.
• Campaign - A new (or existing rotational) question assigned to every inspection for a fixed
period in response to an incident or industry trend.
• Conditional – A question assigned to verify an aspect of a vessel’s operational history or
operator’s oversight activities of the vessel.
SIRE 2.0 Question Library An OCIMF database containing all current inspection questions.
SIRE Report Database An OCIMF database containing all applicable data collected by the
inspector during an inspection.
7 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

General and SIRE 2.0

Does SIRE 2.0 include barges and offshore vessels?
The SIRE 2.0 inspection regime that will be launched in 2022 is for tankers only (SIRE category 1).
However, there is an ongoing project to align all OCIMF inspection programmes to the extent
possible. This means several elements of SIRE 2.0 will be implemented for barges and offshore
vessels in the future. The current target completion date for the Programmes Alignment project
is 2024, but this may change.

How is it perceived that doing the inspection on a tablet will make the
actual inspection any better or more effective?
SIRE 2.0 is a completely new concept on vessel inspection, based on risk ranking of questions
into Core and Rotational questions, and focused on hardware, processes, and human factors.
The tablet will provide an inspector with more information to enable a more objective
assessment of the vessel. The responses from the tablet will also allow greater data mining to
be completed, improved risk assessment for the report recipient, and allow new questions to be
added by OCIMF when necessary.
The use of the tablet also allows OCIMF to enhance the quality and integrity of the inspection
regime by using technology to increase transparency and improve oversight.

What is OCIMF’s plan to explain SIRE 2.0 to ship’s operator and crew?
OCIMF is implementing a robust SIRE 2.0 communication plan to ensure that vessel operators
and other users of the SIRE programme are aware of the key changes due to take place. The plan
includes engagement with all relevant tanker industry associations and a series of webinars to
help prepare vessel operators for SIRE 2.0.

If the average number of inspections are hoped to be reduced, how many

inspections per vessel per year is envisaged under the new regime?
The current average number of inspections per vessel is about 2.4 per year. One of the objectives
of SIRE 2.0 is to reduce this number even further by strengthening confidence in the reports
submitted into the database. With an increase in confidence in the reports submitted, the need
for repeat inspections on the same vessel within a relatively short period should reduce.

What will the interval of the inspections be now with SIRE 2.0?
The inspection frequency is a decision for each Submitting Company when considering a vessel
for charter.

Can inspectors continue to inspect vessels in the same way as they have
done for years and then complete the questionnaire later?
No. The SIRE 2.0 Inspection Programme is a tablet-based inspection process, and an inspector
will be expected to populate the inspection editor as the inspection progresses.

What is required to ensure flawless data integration from SIRE 2.0 to a

member company’s system?
OCIMF has developed a new Application Programme Interface (API) for SIRE 2.0 integration.
This was published on 31 January 2021 to those companies that integrate with the existing API
to download inspection reports and vessel particulars documents. These companies are now
expected to engage with their in-house marine assurance experts to assess and ascertain how
to integrate with the SIRE 2.0 platform in a way that works for them. OCIMF meets regularly
8 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

with these companies, as a group, to discuss the SIRE 2.0 integration development work and
provide support, where necessary. The deadline for the integration work by the companies is
September 2021.
For all other SIRE 2.0 Submitting Companies and Programme Recipients, SIRE 2.0, once
launched, will be used in exactly the same way – as a cloud-based system, accessed through any
web-enabled device. Users will simply log in to the system as usual, download their reports or
use other functionality within the platform.

Will new system have question risk ratings?

OCIMF has ranked each SIRE 2.0 question using risk assessment models (also known as
‘bowties’) developed in collaboration with the OCIMF membership. The ranking process
determines how a question will be managed and allocated within the inspection programme.
Questions which are identified as being Core, i.e., related to significant risks onboard a vessel as
defined by OCIMF members, will be assigned to all inspections where the question is relevant to
the vessel being inspected, whilst questions identified as being Rotational, i.e., not related to a
significant risk as defined by OCIMF members, will be allocated on an occasional basis.
Whilst OCIMF has used a bowtie risk assessment model to determine whether questions are
Core or Rotational, the end user of a report must make their own determination of relative risk
posed to their organisation by each question based on their own evaluation of a question and its
supporting guidance.

Will there be a comparison between the new and old version?

OCIMF will carry out a gap analysis of VIQ 7 and SIRE 2.0 questions to avoid creating any gaps or
leaving out any important questions. However, it is important to note that there is not always
a direct correlation between VIQ7 and SIRE 2.0 questions. In many cases, top level questions
in VIQ7 and SIRE 2.0 may have similarities, but the construction of SIRE 2.0 questions and the
supporting guidance often means that there is no direct simple linkage.

If there are variable questionnaires for the same vessel, how would this
be seen as a consistent measure against each vessel? How will companies
benchmark vessel performance or analyse trends related to findings/
areas of concern when the inspection questions set will be different for
each inspection.
SIRE 2.0 will reduce the overall number of questions assigned to an inspection with the
expectation that an inspector will take the appropriate time to examine and report more
accurately on the hardware, process and human related aspects linked to the top-level question.
Core questions will be fixed and regularly applied every time a vessel is inspected and therefore
predictable to programme participants. Rotational questions will be allocated over several
inspections in a manner which is unpredictable to programme participants.
New hardware, process and human (task based) response tools have been developed for
SIRE 2.0. These will enable the inspector to codify negative observations and identify the subject
and nature of concern which will permit data mining to detect weaknesses in company and ship
level management practices.

How does OCIMF plan to ensure SIRE 2.0 manages the effect of COVID?
SIRE 2.0 will be a physical inspection. However, the remote inspection regime that was
developed by OCIMF in 2020 to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 will continue to be made
available to Submitting Companies for the entire duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.
9 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Can OCIMF expand on the human factor enhancements in SIRE 2.0?

OCIMF, through the integration of human factors into SIRE 2.0, will help ensure that all users of
the programmes consider human factors to reach safety and environmental goals. People are
part of the systems that protect ships. There are conditions that can set a person up to succeed
or fail. These conditions are known as Performance Influencing Factors (PIFs). They influence
reliable execution of critical tasks. SIRE 2.0 will help users of the programme understand and
tackle PIFs by:
• Identifying objective conditions that go beyond the individual.
• Giving vessel operators and crew systematic opportunities to improve.
Inspectors will be trained under SIRE 2.0 to:
• Understand Human Factors and why they are important.
• Recognise PIFs and tag them to SIRE 2.0 inspection observations, as defined by OCIMF.
• Build engagement skills that encourage open, helpful responses from crews.
• Have opportunities to practice using realistic examples that allow an inspector to get a feeling
for how to apply in real life.
For more information on human factors in SIRE 2.0, see OCIMF – Oil Companies International
Marine Forum – SIRE 2.0 Human Factors Update

Are there any plans to enforce the rest hours for the inspectors under
SIRE 2.0, especially in cases where there is extensive travel required
for inspections?
Inspectors must not endanger their own safety, or that of others, by conducting any inspection
related activities without adequate rest hours. OCIMF will audit and enforce compliance with its
policies and procedures that are applicable to all SIRE 2.0 programme participants, including
the inspectors.

Tablets/Hardware/Software
What model tablet is proposed?
There are two kinds of tablet presently being trialled, iSafe IS930.1 and ECOM Tab Ex 02.
A decision will be made after the trials on whether to adopt these models.

What is the expected lifespan of the battery?

The SIRE 2.0 trial inspections will inform OCIMF whether the battery life for the tablets is
acceptable for the duration of an inspection and help identify battery charging and management
best practice. The two tablet devices being trialled have the following battery characteristics
according to the manufacturers:
• Tab 1: 4,450mAh with up to 11 hours battery life claimed.
• Tab 2: 8,400mAh with no battery life claimed.
The inspector will be expected to commence an inspection with a fully charged battery and
follow defined battery management best practices. The battery capacity of any tablet selected
will be sufficient to complete a full inspection.

Will Inspectors be provided with a way to safely carry the tablets? Will there
be a bag to accommodate the tablets?
Each tablet will be provided with a carrying case and strap so that an inspector can keep their
hands free and the tablet secure while moving around the vessel.
10 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tablet being provided with a pen for touchscreen purposes?

The two models of tablets being trialled have screens designed for use with gloves in wet
and snow conditions. One model of tablets is provided with a Samsung S Pen stylus. The trial
inspections will determine whether the tablet can be used effectively in the various conditions
encountered during inspections.

Is there a separate keyboard?

A bluetooth keyboard and mouse will be trialled to help understand the benefits of using
such devices and a decision whether to supply keyboards and mice will be made based on the
feedback from the trial inspections. Screen mirroring is also being trialled to determine whether
a laptop keyboard, mouse and screen can be utilised to control and display the output from the
inspection tablet device.

Are the tablets Ex proof?

Yes. The tablets will be Ex proof. OCIMF has invested a lot of time in reviewing and evaluating
the tablets to make sure they could be Ex-certified in the various countries of use and various
situations, including within a vessel or port.

Will there be periodic checks conducted on the tablet being used by the
inspector to confirm whether it is intrinsically safe? If yes, then what will be
the procedure?
Where periodic checks are required to maintain the Ex-rating of the tablet computer, these will
be arranged by OCIMF. Inspectors should follow the manufacturer’s instructions with regards to
maintaining the integrity of the tablet issued to them. If an inspector has any concerns regarding
the condition of tablet, they are to contact the Help Desk that will be set up.

What if the inspector loses the tablet? Will there be an alternative for the
inspector to continue work? Can the inspector carry on without a tablet?
Where a tablet is lost or damaged within 72 hours of the scheduled commencement
of an inspection, the inspector will, subject to the approval of the Submitting
Company commissioning the inspection, complete the inspection using a paper-based
contingency process.
Where a tablet is lost or damaged more than 72 hours before the scheduled commencement of
an inspection, a replacement tablet will be shipped to the inspector. The inspector should be
prepared to complete a paper-based inspection should the replacement tablet not be received
in time.
OCIMF will have a process in place to ship a replacement tablet to an inspector should the help
desk determine that the existing tablet cannot be repaired remotely. Experience of shipping
tablets to the inspectors during the SIRE 2.0 implementation phase will guide OCIMF on the
expected time frame for tablet replacement for each region where inspectors are based.

If tablet crashes in the middle of the inspection, does the tablet save
whatever is recorded at that point of time?
The inspection editor will autosave the inspector responses periodically to permit the
reinstatement of an inspection at a point just before the software or hardware froze. Extensive
testing has been, and will continue to be, undertaken to ensure that the inspection editor
software is fully compatible with each tablet selected for inclusion in the trials and later accepted
for the SIRE 2.0 Programme.
11 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for the tablet?

An initial decision has been made by OCIMF to split the cost of a tablet 50/50 between OCIMF and
an inspector. The full cost of tablet and how the cost will be recovered from the inspectors is still
being worked on. A final decision on the percentage split and what cost will be charged to the
inspectors will be communicated to the inspectors with sufficient notice.

What operating system does the tablet run on? Can it handle Microsoft Word
and Excel format? Many submitting members require observation lists to be
left and these are principally Word documents. Will the tablet be able to be
used for email?
The tablet devices will be locked down using Mobile Device Management software. The operating
system will be able to manage all tablet functionality utilised by the inspection editor software.
Inspectors will not be able to use the tablet for emails or any other purpose than conducting
SIRE 2.0 inspections. The inspection tablet device will not replace an inspector’s personal laptop
or mobile phone.

Will the tablet be rain-proof and provided in a waterproof resistant bag?

The tablets selected for trials can be used in extreme temperature conditions and are also water
resistant in all normal inspection circumstances. They have IP ratings for weather, rain, and
spray of IP68 and IP64 (respectively).

In cold weather battery life is considerably reduced, does the tablet come
with a spare battery?
No. The battery cannot be changed by the user. The tablet will be returned for service if battery
life deteriorates.

How will OCIMF send the tablets overseas? Due to the COVID-19 pandemic
situation, it is not possible to travel, and some countries have customs
restrictions to send this type of electronic equipment.
OCIMF will manage the distribution of the tablets in accordance with all applicable national laws.

How do the export control restrictions work?

There are regional international standards and equivalent country standards that the tablets
are required to conform to. OCIMF has conducted an assessment on a country-by-country basis
to map the tablets models to understand if they are approved for use and certified in those
countries. The appropriate documentation evidencing the certification for the relevant countries
will be provided to the inspector alongside the tablet.

Why can’t inspectors use their own intrinsically safe device with an
in-built app?
The SIRE 2.0 Programme has been designed to use inspection editor software locked into an
OCIMF supplied tablet device. This is to ensure reliability, security and governance of the tablet,
which will currently not be possible with privately owned devices.

How will the tablets be protected against the risk of cyber-attacks?

The tablet will be protected by Mobile Device Management software which will protect it from
cyber-attack. This security protection will be fully tested by OCIMF.
12 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

When will inspectors receive their tablets?

The tablet distribution procedure and schedule will be communicated during 2H2021.

Is the completion of the questionnaire done in offline mode or is this via

4/5G? If by 4G/5G would this not be a large amount of data?
The inspection tablet will need to be connected to the internet using Wi-Fi before an inspection
to allow inspection data to be transferred from the OCIMF server to the tablet, and then again
once the inspection has been validated and is ready for submission to OCIMF. There is no
intention to provide the inspection tablets with a SIM card for mobile internet connection.
The inspection editor software will not need to be connected to the internet during the
physical inspection.

Pre-Inspection
Is all the required information from the operator going to be entered prior
to the booking code being issued?
The SIRE 2.0 inspection process does not require an inspector to create an inspection and
enter a booking code. The inspection is generated by OCIMF and transferred to the nominated
inspector’s tablet inspection editor software automatically. All vessel operator supplied
information is automatically transferred to the tablet when an inspection is transferred to a
nominated inspector’s tablet inspection editor.

How much longer do you expect the booking process to take, given the
additional information which will be required?
For the vessel operator, the first SIRE 2.0 inspection will take much longer since the PIQ,
standard photoset and certificates will have to be uploaded to the OCIMF website. Subsequent
requests should be simpler and quicker since the vessel operator will only need to update and
refresh information on the OCIMF site. Information can be updated and refreshed at the vessel
operator’s convenience and does not need to wait until an inspection is being requested.
For the submitting company, extra time will be required to ensure that an inspector that meets
the built-in validation rules is selected for the inspection.

What is the timeframe for a CVIQ to be submitted before the vessel is

attended by the inspector?
The CVIQ will be generated as soon as a vessel operator declares that the photoset, certificates
and PIQ have been completed. It is expected that vessel operators and Submitting Companies
will plan and book inspections whilst considering the needs of the SIRE 2.0 inspection
programme. It is also expected that they will coordinate to ensure that the vessel operator
declaration is made not less than 48 hours prior to the planned inspection.

Will inspectors be able to see the previous inspections on the vessel to

be inspected?
Negative observations raised against Core questions will be carried forward to the next
inspection for the inspector’s information when considering the same question. The
observations will be displayed in the Operator Supplied Content tab. The information will not be
carried forward to the inspection report and the inspector is not required to make any comment
relating to the previous negative observation unless the situation that gave rise to the negative
observation was still present and unresolved.
13 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Is this system going to change the way inspections are scheduled or will
things be issued the same way they currently are?
Inspections will still be scheduled by individual Submitting Company. There is currently no plan
to change this process under SIRE 2.0.

Will the inspection be assigned to the individual inspector or to the

inspecting company who employs the inspector?
An inspection will be assigned to an individual inspector based on a set of compliance rules.

Will HVPQ be revised to accommodate new operators, updates or vessel

data i.e., standard photos included in the HVPQ?
The HVPQ is currently under review, although this project is not directly linked to the
development of SIRE 2.0.
A Pre-inspection questionnaire (PIQ) has been developed as part of the SIRE 2.0 programme
to provide additional information relating to a vessel’s recent operational history as well as to
provide clarification around static vessel attributes not currently available through HVPQ.
Standard photosets, certificates and the PIQ are separate data inputs and do not form part of
the HVPQ.

Can multiple inspection requests be accepted at once or one after another?

How will inspectors be allocated under SIRE 2.0?
An inspection will be assigned to an individual inspector by a submitting company based on a
set of compliance rules.

What notice is required to change the inspector if he/she cannot attend?

The reassignment of an inspection is the responsibility of the submitting company. When
reassigning an inspection, the submitting company is responsible for making sure that the newly
assigned inspector has sufficient time to complete the pre-board work (an allowance of four
hours free time) before going onboard for the physical inspection.

Will there be a set questionnaire published like the present VIQ7 for SIRE 2.0?
The target publication date for the full SIRE 2.0 Question Library is 01 January 2022. This
document will include the description of the inspection process in addition to the full guidance
for each question.

How can a company participate in the early review of the questions?

The full question set review by OCIMF members, Submitting Companies and Programme
Recipients is planned to commence in July 2021. OCIMF will communicate how to participate in
the review in due course.
OCIMF is currently engaging with relevant industry associations to determine when and how to
conduct review of a SIRE 2.0 question set by vessel operators who participate in the current SIRE.

Will the vessel have a copy of the SIRE 2.0 question set prior to the inspector
visiting the vessel?
The full SIRE 2.0 Core and Rotational included in the SIRE 2.0 Question Library will be published
and made accessible to vessel operators. All questions assigned to a CVIQ will be relevant and
pertinent to a vessel being inspected. Vessel staff should be prepared for all questions contained
within the SIRE 2.0 Question Library which is applicable to their vessel type.
14 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Inspection
How much time will be needed for the inspection or how much time will
be allowed?
Each SIRE 2.0 inspection will be compiled to take approximately 8 hours of onboard inspection
time. An inspector will be expected to undertake pre-boarding tasks as part of the SIRE 2.0
inspection process. It is anticipated that the overall time to complete an inspection onboard a
vessel will not be greatly different from the current programme since by the time the inspector
leaves the vessel, the inspection report will be largely complete.

How will you define the timing used for the inspection on the new
SIRE 2.0 app, time for preparation and app time used on board for the
actual inspection?
The inspection editor software will record the following:
• The date and times of all interactions with an active inspection both before and after a
physical inspection.
• The date, time and GPS position of the start, suspension, resumption, and completion of a
physical inspection.
• The date and times of all observations recorded (positive and negative) during a
physical inspection.
• The step count of an inspector during a physical inspection.

Is there flexibility in the system to account for last-minute delays or issues

that require inspectors to be switched at short notice?
The SIRE 2.0 Inspection Programme requires that all participants conduct inspection booking
and scheduling to consider the needs of the overall inspection process. Although inspections can
be reassigned to another inspector shortly before an inspection is scheduled to take place, this
should not be undertaken without considering whether an assigned inspector will have sufficient
time to complete the necessary pre-work before boarding the vessel for the physical inspection.
The OCIMF inspection booking system will record vessel operator and submitting company
booking practices to permit analysis and identify where poor inspection management is
routinely occurring.

Does the tablet need to be online throughout the inspection?

The tablet device does not need to be online during a physical inspection. The inspection editor
software will synchronise with OCIMF databases whenever the tablet device is connected to the
internet and the editor is logged in. Inspection report information will not be transmitted to the
OCIMF database until the inspector validates and submits a report.

Are inspectors required to answer all questions during inspection on board

with comments?
No. Comments are required when certain responses are provided – the inspection editor
software gives a clear indication where this is required. Inspectors are free to add comments
where they consider doing so will add value to the report. All comments supporting negative
observations must be completed while onboard and presented in the closing meeting. Other
comments can be added after the inspector has left the vessel.
15 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Filling in the questionnaire as an inspector goes around the ship will not be
as simple as it sounds – has this been taken into account?
The SIRE 2.0 Inspection Programme is a tablet-based process which requires that the inspector
completes the inspection report within the inspection editor as the inspection progresses.
OCIMF is trialling the use of voice memos by inspectors in recording their notes as the inspection
progresses. This is to help ensure a good flow during the inspection. The inspection process
and software will be updated and improved based on the feedback received during the Trial
Inspection Programme.

Will SIRE 2.0 be applicable with the remote inspections programme?

No. SIRE 2.0 will be a physical inspection. However, the remote inspection regime developed by
OCIMF to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 will remain available to Submitting Companies for the
duration of the pandemic.

Masters and Chief Engineers are tasked with doing Performance (Human
Factor) Reviews after contract completion of 2 to 6 months. Is OCIMF asking
SIRE inspectors to do this after an 8-hour inspection?
No. OCIMF is not asking inspectors to carry out performance reviews that would normally be
done by a Master. SIRE 2.0 questions tend to have a hardware element, process element or
human element. On the SIRE 2.0 training course, inspectors will learn about human factors that
help people to be successful and the things that can get in the way of effective execution of
critical tasks. They will also learn non-technical skills, including approaches to encourage open
and constructive engagement with crews, methods for gathering and organising evidence, and
managing critical conversations.

With 2.0, will the Vessel’s Senior Management Team have the opportunity
to challenge any observation(s) before it is uploaded on the platform?
How will SIRE 2.0 allow for discussion of observations prior to finalisation
of the report?
The inspector will complete the inspection report as they progress the inspection using the
inspection editor software. All negative observations will need to be written up prior to the
closing meeting as is the current practice with VIQ7 inspections. The inspection editor software
will collate all negative observations into a PDF document called the “Observation Declaration”,
which can be printed onboard using a ship’s wireless printer.
The inspector will discuss the negative observations recorded during the inspection with the
Master who will have the opportunity to provide additional evidence which may result in the
inspector modifying an observation should the circumstances merit this.
A finalised Observation Declaration can then be printed and signed by both the Master and the
Inspector. All changes to observations are recorded by the inspection editor software.

Can the inspector record an interview with the crew during the inspections?
No. The inspector must not record interviews using an audio or video recording device. Video or
audio recording of an inspection is currently not permitted during a SIRE 2.0 inspection under
any circumstances. The inspection editor provides a voice memo function which is only to be
used by an inspector to make personal notes as the inspection progresses.

Will inspections still be possible in the offshore environment, STS etc?

Yes. SIRE 2.0 will be applicable under the same circumstances as the existing SIRE programme.
16 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Will an inspector verify random actual certificates when aboard?

The inspector will be expected to verify that a vessel is managing its statutory certificates
effectively and this will include a limited sampling and verification of certificates.

What is the contingency in case that vessel does not have a Wi-Fi printer or
because cyber security tablet cannot connect to print report?
The need for a Wi-Fi printer for SIRE 2.0 inspection use will be communicated to the shipping
community well before the roll out of the programme. If no Wi-Fi printer is available onboard, the
inspector will communicate the nature of the observations to the Master.

Post-Inspection/Report Writing
Will there be a facility for recording observations on a topic not covered,
i.e., a catch all question for entire chapters?
The SIRE 2.0 Inspection Programme has been developed to include questions which will permit
the inspector to record negative observations where defective equipment or unsafe conditions
are identified even if a question relating to the specific equipment or condition has not
been allocated.

Presumably, operators would still be required to respond to observations

raised in a SIRE 2.0 inspection. Is there any proposal to involve the inspector
concerned in reviewing the responses?
As with the current SIRE programme, SIRE 2.0 will provide the vessel operator with the
opportunity to provide operator comments to all negative observations before the inspection
report is published. The Submitting Company and/or a Programme Recipient is responsible for
contacting the vessel operator if they require further information. The SIRE 2.0 programme will
not include any requirement or process for an inspector to review and comment on operator
comments appended to an inspection report.

Will there be the possibility to amend observations and comments after the
report has been saved?
The report can be amended up until the time it is submitted. All changes to the report before,
during and after the physical inspection are tracked.

If a paper-based system is used as alternate mode of inspection, how will

inspectors transfer/submit the report? Would inspectors have to re-type
everything back on the tablet?
The paper-based contingency process will be similar to the current SIRE process where the
responses to all questions will have to be input to the inspection editor software on another
device. Access to the inspection editor software on another device will only be permitted when
the submitting company has authorised a paper-based inspection.

Can two or more ship inspection reports be run in parallel?

Yes. The inspection editor software can have more than one active inspection in progress.

Must the report be completed and submitted onboard?

No. The inspection should be reviewed for accuracy and completeness once the inspector has
left the vessel.
17 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

With the tablet and writing the responses onboard – will there no longer be
a requirement to write the report afterwards?
Since most of the report will be completed by the end of the physical inspection, the inspector
will only need to add any detail that had not been entered during the inspection and conduct an
accuracy check after they leave the vessel.

With SIRE 2.0 being enhanced, how long from inspection would it be for the
report to be concluded, for the participant to review the vessel?
The inspection report should be validated by the inspector and uploaded to the OCIMF website
within 72 hours of the inspection being completed. The time taken for the report to be released
by the submitting company to the vessel operator is not under the control of OCIMF. Once the
submitting company releases the inspection report to the vessel operator, the vessel operator
will have 7 working days to provide their initial operator comments before the inspection report
will be automatically published.

How long will a SIRE 2.0 inspection report remain valid for? Will it be more
than six months and, if so, would this be implemented by OCIMF to be valid
for all OCIMF members?
From an OCIMF perspective, all reports available in the database are valid, but it is up to the
purchaser of the report to decide whether a particular report meets their requirements or their
use of the programme. OCIMF’s role is to make the report available for a period of time.

Will SIRE 2.0 include a selectable list of immediate and root causes for
assisting the operators in responding to observations and for purposes of
data mining?
The operator comment process is being revised to require comments to include immediate and
root causes. Machine-readable drop-down options are under consideration.

What about inspections that due to vessel port stay restrictions must be
completed during night-time?
There will be no change to the current rules around night-time inspections.

Will operators have access to pictures and comments made by the inspector
during the inspection?
The published inspection report will include observations, comments and photographs added to
the inspection editor and marked for inclusion in the final report by the inspector. The validated
report submitted by the inspector will form the final inspection report.
18 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Inspector Training and Accreditation

Have COVID restrictions been taken into account to deliver the SIRE 2.0
programme in time, especially the five days of training, and what kind of
refresher training is required to finally approve an inspector?
The SIRE 2.0 training courses are being designed so that they can be done face to face or
remotely. Training courses under the current SIRE programme are currently being delivered
remotely due to COVID-19. This will continue into SIRE 2.0 if the COVID restrictions continues for
that long.

Where and when will inspectors receive training for SIRE 2.0?
SIRE 2.0 training for existing inspectors will commence in July 2021. Inspectors should expect
communication from OCIMF on dates etc. New inspector courses under SIRE 2.0 will commence
in 2022. The specific dates will be communicated in due course.

Will inspectors have to book their own training dates?

OCIMF will allocate all places for the SIRE 2.0 training that are planned for existing inspectors.
The allocation will be based on a pre-defined criterion.

Are all inspectors required to go through an audited inspection?

Transition training will include an assessment (examination) and Audited Inspections will be
assigned as per each inspector’s current accreditation anniversary (expiry) dates.

How long is the SIRE 2.0 accreditation valid for? Would the current
accreditation expiry date be automatically extended until the five-day
training programme?
The accreditation period will continue to run on a three-year cycle. There are no plans to change
the accreditation period. As far as the existing inspectors are concerned, they do not need to
worry about their expiry dates. None of the expiry dates will run out before the opportunity to
renew has been accorded to each one.

For the existing SIRE programme, the inspector is subject to a physical audit
every 3 years. With SIRE 2.0, will this process remain the same?
Yes. Inspectors will be required to undergo quality assessments by Programmes Quality
Assessors who work exclusively for OCIMF. The actual interval of the assessment/appraisal may
change depending on the performance of individual inspectors, but this is still under review by
the project team.

My accreditation expires in Sep 2022. Will I be audited and accredited for

SIRE or SIRE 2.0?
SIRE as we know it will cease to exist in Sept 2022. It is envisaged that all audits from the
introduction of SIRE 2.0 in April 2022 will be conducted under SIRE 2.0.

How will inspectors be trained to use the tablet?

Inspectors will be trained on the use of the tablet hardware and software. The training will
include all the tablet functions, use in the field, and general navigation of the tablet. The
inspectors will undergo a virtual reality interactive training using an emulated tablet. The virtual
training will allow inspectors to practice on some question sets and familiarise themselves with
the new observation response tool.
19 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

On the assessment is there any Pass or Fail?

Yes. There will be a benchmark for an inspector to reach to pass the training. Anyone who does
not meet the benchmark will be given further training.

Will any of the current inspectors or auditors become Quality Assessors?

OCIMF is currently recruiting for the Quality Assessor roles. The plan is to recruit secondees from
the OCIMF member companies, but if we are unable to get enough secondees to fill the roles
then we will look at other options.
The Quality Assessors being recruited will work exclusively for OCIMF. They will not undertake
any other work or business which may conflict with their role as Quality Assessors.

Photographs
How are inspectors expected to take photographs? It is not wanted by the
Oil Companies if the vessel is loading or discharging.
The OCIMF membership have supported and endorsed the use of an Ex rated tablet-based
camera under SIRE 2.0. SIRE 2.0 provides the opportunity for an inspector to add photographs
to a report to support written observations. Rules for the use of the tablet device camera have
been developed which provide clear guidance on how and when a camera may be used and the
circumstances in which a camera should not be used.

Will photos for the observation be taken on the tablet?

Yes. The tablet camera will be used to add photographs to an inspection report.

Does SIRE 2.0 require any mandatory photo report taken using the tablet
during the inspection? Can photos be added into observations?
Yes. There are circumstances where a photograph would be expected to be added to a negative
observation if the port and terminal permits the use of the camera.

Is there an expectation that photographs are to be uploaded every time

before the SIRE 2.0 inspection?
It is recommended that photographs are refreshed by the vessel operator at approximately
six-month intervals. However, they must be refreshed whenever the condition of the vessel
materially changes. Photographs can remain in the SIRE database for up to a year without
being refreshed if the vessel operator is confident that they remain representative. It is the
responsibility of the vessel operator to ensure that the photographs uploaded to the SIRE 2.0
website remain representative of the vessel’s true condition as near enough to the time of
the inspection.

What happens if latest photos are not available at the time of the booking?
It is the vessel operator’s responsibility to ensure that up to date photographs are uploaded
to the OCIMF SIRE 2.0 website before an inspection is booked. A negative observation will be
recorded if a photograph is not uploaded by the vessel operator. The absence of photographs
will be visible to the report recipient who will form their own opinion on whether to accept
the vessel.
20 – SIRE 2.0: Frequently Asked Questions

Terminals
What if a terminal does not allow electronic equipment?
OCIMF is undertaking several initiatives to identify ports and terminals where the use of tablet
devices and/or camera is known to be prohibited or restricted. Where such ports or terminals are
identified and they potentially have a significant impact on the conduct of SIRE 2.0 inspections,
OCIMF will engage in advocacy work with the ports or terminals.
Where a terminal prohibits the use of the tablet camera, but there is no restriction on the use of
the tablet itself, the camera function can be demonstrably disabled.

Will inspectors receive letters of authorisation to use the tablets and

take photographs?
SIRE 2.0 Inspectors will be provided with three letters to explain the purpose and use of the
tablet device as follows:
• A customs letter: To assist the inspector crossing international borders.
• A Port and Terminal letter: To assist the inspector to transit through Port and
Terminal Facilities.
• A Master letter: To assist the inspector in introducing the tablet device to the Master and crew
of an inspected vessel.
These letters will be supplemented by:
• The rules for the use of the tablet camera and voice recording device.
• The tablet device Ex-certification documents.
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