SIRE 2.0: Understanding the New Inspection Regime and Its Challenges

The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has transformed vessel inspections with the introduction of SIRE 2.0, presenting significant challenges for shipowners and operators. This comprehensive overhaul has expanded the scope and depth of inspections while fundamentally changing how data is gathered and presented. What makes SIRE 2.0 different and why are many in the industry are struggling to adapt?

What's New in SIRE 2.0?

SIRE 2.0 represents a paradigm shift from its predecessor, moving away from the rigid checklist format that allowed vessels to prepare with relative certainty. The new system introduces:

• A database of over 550 questions from which each inspection's checklist is algorithmically generated
• Pre-screening through a Pre-Inspection Questionnaire (PIQ)
• More stringent requirements regarding the Harmonized Vessel Particulars Questionnaire (HVPQ)
• Digital inspections conducted via tablet
• A more comprehensive assessment of vessel condition and crew quality

Each inspection now draws from various question types:

• Core questions asked in every inspection
• Rotational questions that cycle through multiple inspections
• Conditional questions triggered by specific vessel attributes or history
• Campaign questions based on current industry trends

The Challenge of Unpredictability

The most significant hurdle for vessel operators is the unpredictability introduced by SIRE 2.0. Every checklist is unique, generated based on numerous factors including:

• Details from the PIQ and HVPQ
• The vessel's history
• The operator's history
• Various other risk factors

This algorithmic approach means no two inspections are the same, making traditional preparation methods largely ineffective. The days of spending hours reviewing paperwork with inspectors are gone, replaced by a system that demands comprehensive preparation across all potential areas of inquiry.

New Classification of Observations

SIRE 2.0 has restructured how observations and deficiencies are classified under three main categories:

1. Hardware - Related to vessel components, machinery, equipment, structure, and outfittings
2. Processes - Covering vessel management, safety procedures, and onboard protocols
3. Human Factor - Focusing on crew competency and performance influencing factors (PIFs)

Significantly, multiple observations can now be recorded under a single question. For example, if an emergency fire pump is non-operational (a hardware issue) and a crew member is unfamiliar with its starting procedures (a human factor), both will be noted as separate observations within the same question.

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

The impact of a poor SIRE inspection result can be severe and long-lasting. While previously, 10-15 observations would have been considered catastrophic, such numbers are becoming increasingly common under SIRE 2.0.

What remains unclear is how oil majors and charterers have adjusted their expectations in light of this new reality. What we do know is that negative observations directly impact a vessel's tradability and chartering prospects, potentially leading to rejection by certain oil majors or charterers and resulting in significant business losses.

With SIRE 2.0 placing greater emphasis on vessel and operator historical performance, a poor inspection result today could have repercussions far into the future.

Looking Ahead

As the industry continues to adapt to SIRE 2.0, proactive preparation has never been more critical. Idwal's Pre-SIRE Inspections can help operators navigate this new landscape and minimise the risk of negative observations. Get in touch with the team today for a demonstration for your business.