This was aimed at whether a new, holistic vessel inspection programme could be designed that provides more value to OCIMF members.
The SIRE programme was introduced in 1993 and the only major changes since then were the introduction of the inspector accreditation programme in 2000 and the expansion in scope to include barges in 2005.
OCIMF said in its newsletter that the industry has evolved considerably since 1993 and new challenges, issues and risks have emerged. For example, today there is much better recognition of how human factors contribute to incidents and maritime risk.
The working group presented a draft Terms of Reference for the project at The General Purposes Committee Singapore (GPC 85) meeting last month, where it was approved in principle.
The working group has now become the Vessel Inspection Programme Steering Group and will set up expert work streams to consider the various aspects involved with vessel inspections.
GPC 86 is due to meet in Houston between 21st and 22nd March next year.