Introduction

Ensuring the seaworthiness and regulatory compliance of oil tankers and offshore units is a priority for the global maritime sector. Tanker vetting and the SIRE audit system, developed by the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF), are essential tools used to evaluate the quality, safety, and operational readiness of vessels. This course offers participants in-depth knowledge and practical skills needed to prepare for, conduct, and respond to audits and inspections. It highlights critical international conventions, inspection procedures, and industry best practices to maintain high operational standards and reduce risks.

Oil Tanker & Offshore Units Vetting, SIRE Audit & Inspection Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the relevance and scope of international maritime conventions like SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, ISPS, ISM, ISGOTT, and MLC.
• Gain up-to-date knowledge of tanker vetting procedures and requirements.
• Identify types of inspections and audits required for tanker vessels.
• Prepare all necessary documents and vessel components ahead of inspection.
• Recognize key inspection elements and areas onboard vessels.
• Analyze and implement the 13 elements of TMSA (Tanker Management Self-Assessment).
• Navigate various SIRE questionnaires used during inspections.
• Evaluate both the advantages and challenges associated with vetting processes.
• Apply best practices in conducting inspections, addressing findings, and reporting.
• Communicate and execute post-inspection action plans effectively.

Course Methodology

This course includes instructor-led presentations, case studies, group discussions, real-life audit scenarios, and checklists. It focuses on knowledge transfer and hands-on understanding of SIRE procedures and vetting strategy.

Who Should Take This Course

• Marine superintendents
• Fleet managers
• Tanker operations officers
• Safety and quality control inspectors
• SIRE auditors and port captains
• Marine engineers and shipboard officers

Oil Tanker & Offshore Units Vetting, SIRE Audit & Inspection Course Outlines

DAY 1: International Conventions & Codes Regulating Tanker Vetting Process

Module 1: Introduction to the IMO International Conventions & Codes

• SOLAS
• MARPOL
• STCW
• MLC
• ISPS
• ISM
• ISGOTT
• SIGTTO
• OCIMF
• SIRE

Module 2: Types of Vetting / Inspections to be carried out on Tankers

• Port State Inspection
• Flag State Inspection
• Class Survey Vetting
• ISM Audit
• ISPS Audit
• MLC Audit
• P&I Club Inspection
• Oil Major Inspection
• Ship Operator / Superintendent Audit

DAY 2: Vetting / Inspection Process Preparation & Conduction Process

Module 3: Preparations Prior to the Inspection Process

• The VPQ/VIQ (Vessel Particular Questionnaire/Vessel Inspection Questionnaire)
• Classification documents
• Ship’s Certificates (Registry, Cargo ship safety construction, safety equipment, Safety radiotelegraphy, Load line, IOPP, financial responsibility, Vessel's safe manning and Drawing of the vessel's cargo tank arrangement)
• Ship’s Crew Documentations (The officer's qualification matrix, Officer's licenses, Medical fitness certificates)
• Ship’s Documents & Records (crude oil washing manual, Approved ballast manual, Oil/Cargo record book, Garbage log for MARPOL Annex V, cargo hose / pipe pressure testing, pressure/vacuum valve settings, Shipping document and cargo manifest, Inert gas manual & Safety manual)

Module 4: Vetting / Inspection Process (Aspects to be inspected)

• Ship’s General Condition
• Ship’s Certificates
• Engine Room & Machinery Compartments
• Cargo Tanks and its outfits
• Pumproom, Cargo Equipment & Piping
• FFA & LSA Equipment
• Pollution Prevention & Combating Equipment and Records
• Crew Qualifications, Trainings, Experience and Skills
• Cargo Loading / Discharging Documentation
• Emergency Plans & Drills
• ISPS Requirements Compatibilities and records
• Incident & Casualty records

DAY 3: TEMSA Elements & Vetting Questionnaire

Module 5: The 13 Elements of TMSA 3 (Tanker Management Self-Assessment)

• Leadership and Safety Management System (SMS)
• Shore-based human resource recruitment and management
• Vessel human resource recruitment
• Reliability and maintenance of vessel, including critical equipment
• Navigational Safety
• Cargo, ballast, tank cleaning, bunkering, mooring and anchoring operations
• Change management
• Incident Reporting with thorough investigation & analysis
• Safety management
• Environmental and energy management
• Preparedness for emergencies and contingency planning
• Measurement, analysis and improvement
• Maritime security (latest addition)

Module 6: Various Questionnaires Used in the SIRE Program

• Vessel inspection questionnaire (VIQ)
• Barges inspection questionnaire (BIQ)
• Uniform SIRE inspection report
• Vessel particulars questionnaire (VPQ)
• Barges particulars questionnaire (BPQ)

DAY 4: Vetting Advantages & Challenges

Module 7: Advantages of Vetting

• Confirm the Ship is Safe
• Compatibilities with International & Flag State requirements
• Safe & Clean Seas & Environment
• Ship Suitability and compliance check
• Systematic management of safety and quality risks
• Value of the Tanker is maintained
• Market options increasing
• Involvement of Owner, Operators, Ship’s Staff, Classification society
• Professional marine risk management
• Action Plan for corrective actions
• Overview for superintendents on the Tanker's condition

Module 8: Challenges in Vetting

• Lack of data and records
• Unqualified or inexperienced inspectors
• External influence or pressure
• Lack of time and resources
• Incompetent crew
• Lack of awareness and cooperation

DAY 5: Vetting Best Practices

Module 9: Best Practices of Conducting Vetting / Inspection Process

• Preparations for the Vetting
• Roles & Responsibilities of Ship’s staff & Company Superintendent
• Closing of all Pre Vetting Audit
• Agreeing on the vetting objectives, plan & timetable
• Preparing the tanker (Documents, Machinery & Staff)
• Opening Meeting with the Inspector
• Conducting the Inspection and answering questions
• Recording the Audit / Inspection Findings (NCR)
• Closing meeting and negotiating the findings
• Preparing the action plan to close the NCR (duration & budget)
• Vetting Report & Action Plan Communication

Module 10: Inspection/Checks Undertaken On-Board

• Safety familiarisation
• Drills
• Updated SOLAS and fire-fighting appliance (FFA) manuals
• Updated life-saving appliance (LSA) and FFA files
• Availability of immersion suits
• Well-kept polytechnics
• Clearly marked isolation valves
• Well-placed IMO symbols
• Clearly displayed expiry dates

Conclusion

By successfully completing this course, participants will possess a strong command of international vetting and inspection procedures for oil tankers and offshore units. They will be capable of implementing and managing audits, ensuring compliance, minimizing risks, and enhancing operational standards with confidence — guided by Gentex Training Center.