How to Become A SIRE Vetting Inspector?

Every maritime professional at some point in their career thinks of doing something else apart from sailing. If you are a seafarer, you know what we are talking about. You also know that settling with an onshore job after years of sailing is easily said than done.  However, fear of uncertainties shouldn’t be a reason for your to give up on your dreams of taking up something new. Several maritime professionals have successfully quit sea life and settled onshore.

There are several opportunities in the maritime industry apart from sailing if you have the right certification and experience. Some of these jobs are quite similar to that of sailing but requires lesser number of days at sea. One such job is that of SIRE Vetting Inspector.

If you have worked on tanker ships or are remotely associated with them, then you would know about the highly challenging ship inspections known as SIRE Inspections. These inspections are normally conducted by an inspector called the SIRE Vetting Inspector.

tanker ship
Image for Representation Purpose Only – Credits: V Sandeep

Just like the jobs of surveyors and superintendent, the profile of a SIRE Vetting Inspector is also a highly rewarding. No doubt it involves traveling and can turn out to be highly stressful, but the career is surely a respectable and lucrative one.

What is SIRE?

SIRE stands for Ship Inspection Report Program, which was introduced by the OCIMF ( Oil Companies International Marine Forum) in 1993 as a safety initiative to address concerns about sub-standard shipping. The SIRE Program is a unique Tanker Risk Assessment tool which is of great value to Charterers,  Ship Operators, Terminal Operators and Government bodies concerned with ship safety. It consists of a large pool of up-to-date information about Tankers and Barges.

What do SIRE Vetting Inspectors Do?

SIRE vetting inspectors are required to report on vessels or operational deficiencies, to detail both positive and negative comments on the vessel’s operation. They then make reports with the found deficiencies (rating them from High to Low risks) and give it to the vessel master at the end of every inspection.  Vessels with “High risks” cannot be used until all observations have been closed out.

What is OCIMF?

The mission of OCIMF ( Oil Companies International Marine Forum) is to be the foremost authority to ensure safe and environmentally responsible operation of Oil Tankers, Terminals and Offshore Support Vessels, promoting  continuous improvement in standards of design and operation.

Ship Inspector Training and Accreditation Procedures

SIRE Inspectors are mainly divided into 3 categories. They are as follows:

Category 1: Oil, Chemical and Gas Carriers plus vessels listed under Category 2 and 3.

Category2: Small Oil Tankers of less than 5000 tons dwt and Chemical Tankers and Gas Carriers of less than  500 Tons Gross Tonnage plus vessels listed under Category 3.

Category 3: Barges together with Tugs that are associated with movement of barges, and also vessels that are used for carriage of packaged cargoes.

Guidelines/ Requirements For Becoming a Successful SIRE Vetting Inspector 

All prospective Inspectors must, in first instance, apply to be an OCIMF member to undertake a necessary training leading to an examination and accreditation. Only OCIMF members are eligible to nominate an applicant for accreditation. Once an applicant is approved, OCIMF will arrange for the applicant to attend an approved SIRE Inspector Training Course and sit for the examination at an OCIMF designated examination centre.

It is to note that employees of vessel operators are not eligible to attain SIRE  Inspector Accreditation.

Category 1 Inspectors: Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s  of 3000 GT/ 3000 KW or more. Must have at least 5 years actual sea service aboard tankers of which not less than 2 years must have been senior officer on board a tanker and shall hold or have held Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be inspected or proof of satisfactory training under STCW Convention/Code, with a valid OCIMF Ship Inspector Training and Accreditation program.

Category 2 Inspectors:  Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s  between  500 and 3000 GT/750 and 3000 KW Propulsion Power.

The work experience and other certification remains same as listed above for Category 1 Inspectors.

Category 3 Inspectors:  Must hold or have held Certificate of Competency as Master or Officer In charge of navigation watch of ships less than 500 Gross tonnage issued by recognized Flag State Or

Certificate of Competency as Second Engineer issued by recognized Flag State Or

Nationally recognized Barge Master’s License Or

Nationally recognized Barge Chief Engineer’s License Or

Extensive day-to-day experience in Barge Operations or Barge Terminal Management

Must have served at least 2 years on the type of vessel to be inspected or have undergone suitable training to inspect Category 3 Vessels with Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be Inspected, Or a certificate issued by Local Authority  of Equivalent standard.

The training of all these Inspectors is carried out in UK with SIRE Courses and Examinations. The applicants are exposed to various topics of International and Industry Structures, IMO, Vetting, OCIMF, SIRE, Accessing the SIRE website and Downloading Reports, The conduct of an Inspection and use of VIQ/ROVIQ and its questions and explanation of the features and use of SIRE VIQ software. Additional training is carried out for those Inspectors willing to inspect Chemical/Gas carriers.

All applicants are required to pass a written General Examination at the end of training Course and undertake on-board training in form of accompanied inspections and finally, successfully undertake an on-board Audit in presence of SIRE Accredited Auditing Inspector.

Knowledge and  Capability of above listed Inspectors:

SIRE Inspectors must be able to demonstrate familiarity and knowledge of International Guidelines, Codes and Conventions with various Regulations, Procedures and Standards appropriate to the type of vessel being inspected (SOLAS,ISM,ISGOTT,STCW,ICS,OCIMF).

They should be proficient in English and be physically fit to carry out the Inspection of Vessel. The inspector should also be warm and behave ethically and co-operate with the Ship Staff. This post is highly demanding and needs planning at a very early stage in ones career. It also involves a lots of hard work and dedication.

People sailing on Tankers (Oil/Gas/Chemical) or those who wants to become SIRE Vetting Inspector must start building contacts in the industry and keep healthy relationship with these inspectors who visit their vessel at the time of Inspection. You can also take their details and get in touch with them if required as many of them are more than happy to help.

Are you a SIRE vetting Inspector or do you know one? Are we missing any important information? Do let us know in the comments below or at info@marineinsight.com.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

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58 Comments

  1. cerco lavoro come applicatore ho lavorato in tutti i porti italiani come supervisore con referenze ho lavorato anche per alcuni anni presso l’arsenale della marina militare di spezia taranto la maddalena(sardegna) e tanti altri posti sperando in una vs considerazione
    porgo distinti saluti

  2. I’m intrested in undergoing the SIRE training,bt I have little or no experience as a sea farer.I live in Nigeria.Thank you.

  3. i am chief engineer with more than 5 yrs on tankers(actual sailing) and interested in joing as vetting inspector.pls provide details.

  4. I am an OCIMF-SIRE vetting inspector, category 1 accredited since 2000 to inspect oil and chemical vessels. I live in Italy and i am looking to expand my business. If some companies are interested on my services, please let me know. Best regards

  5. ,Hi Roberto Viola,

    I am an Ex-chief Engineer worked as Senior Classification and verification Surveyor with some IACS members. Please contact me and let us discuss more.

    Cheers,

    Prosper

  6. At present working as chief engineer.total experience as chief engineer is 29 month. want to do the vetting inspector job. pls give me the detail about how to proceed and get a vetting inspector job

  7. I am a working Master on LPG ships , want to become a SIRE Vetting Inspector , please guide.

  8. Good Day,

    Since 1994 I am working on the different kind of tankers (crude, product, chemical )
    I was thoroughly passed all the deck officer ranks on board (9 years as chief officer on tankers – loading, discharging, transport, etc).
    Master since 2007 – in Maersk Tankers since 2010.
    I feel that is time to “put my boots on hanger”.
    I am looking for any world wide shore job – may be a vetting inspector too.

  9. I am working as marine superintendent(Vetting) since 2013. And I worked about 5.5 years on chemical tanker and product carrier as chief officer.
    I wanna be a Sire inspector in USA or Sire inspector in North/South America region.
    Please advise me any recommendation or procedure or guidance.

  10. Please advise or guide how to take the 1st step into becoming a SIRE inspector.
    Have been on-board all types of tankers for 18 years and looking forward to venture into new line of work which is also connected in my Maritime Profession.

  11. Hi Roberto Viola, I live in Corinto I believe most of the vessels that come here they never get inspected, if there is a way that you and I can work together let me know.

    Home number, 011 505 2340 60 65 24 hours

    Call to discuss possible source of incomes

  12. Can some body e mail me? i terms of guiding me trought the process of becoming a surveyor, please am just a desperated father trying to keep my family moving on

    home number 011 505 2340 6065

  13. Dear Sir,

    I live in the Philippines. I sailed with tankers for approx. 10 years and intend to find a a job ashore as vetting inspector. Can you help me on how to become one?

    Thank you very much..

  14. Good Day Sir,

    I sailed the chief engineer position approximately 2 year, I hold class 1coc (MPA singapore),I have many tanker experience,I have been sailing with MTM company,let me know how to apply the inspector.

    Brgds,
    Aung Htoo Naing
    C/E
    E1 0004477 S’pore

  15. I had about 8 year sea time experience out of which 6 years on tankers.Experience on senior rank is 03 year 08 months.
    Want to become a sire vetting inspector.
    kindly advice.

  16. Good day
    I worked as a Chief engineer of an experience of 52 months on chemical/tanker.
    Now I am searching the job of vetting inspector/internal auditors etc.
    Can any body guide on this matter.
    Thanks

  17. as far as I know it is not enough to have sea experience in order to be inspector. you should have a reference company. first you should find a reference company that will support you then you can involve the inspector course…

  18. I m a chief engineer sailed in gas carrier in last 3 yrs in senior officer rank pls help me how can i join as vetting inspector.

  19. Dear Sir / Madam
    Good afternoon

    I am Captain Class A’ , please advise or guide how to take the 1st step into becoming a SIRE inspector.
    Have been on-board suezmax and vlcc tankers for 6 years and looking forward to venture into new line of work which is also connected in my Maritime Profession.

  20. Good afternoon,

    i’ve sailded many years on oil tankers and i’m chief mate from 2011. i’m searching now job as a vetting inspector, please provide reuirements to do such job and if any companies are searching for a new employer.
    Thank you in advance

    Michele Casagrande

  21. Hello Sir Good day ! I would like to do vetting inspector job. Kindly advised how to start and where should i do this course . am having 36 months chief officer experience in an oil tanker and holding uk master license.

    thank you

    with best regards
    Rama gopal

  22. We are looking for suitable SIRE inspectors or candidates with at least 5 years senior officer experience based in ARA region , China and Australia.

  23. We are looking for suitable SIRE inspectors or candidates with at least 5 years senior officer experience preferably worked in Oil / Chem / Gas tankers based in Panama.

  24. I am a master of oil/chem vessels for 3yrs now and working up to this time.
    I am interested to become a sire vetting inspector with the given opportunity after attending the course and examination. Preferably in SE asia as i lived in the Philippines.
    Please advise how it could be possible from step 1 ~ and the rest and will appreciate any information..

  25. I have been marine & offshore class surveyor of IACS member, FPSO supervisor, tanker construction engineer for 20 years in China & UAE, I want to be a SIRE inspectors.

  26. Hello! I would like to do vetting inspector job. Presently sailing as master on LPG/LEG carriers.

    Brgds
    Gatis

  27. Hi. I was a seman for many years most of them on Tankers and now I am working in the office as DPA. I have been offered to hand-over the position as Marine Manager for the company and being in charge for plan/schedule vetting inspection as well to reply in case of Observations, I would be ready to get the position. For above reasons I am asking if I can attend to an approved SIRE Inspector Training Course in order to improve my knowledge and be prompt to serve my company in the best way.

  28. Good day!

    Many thanks for such an information! I’ve got just two questions:

    – the latest version of a SIRE brochure which I found is 2014 – is it still actual?
    – do any of applicants need to achieve a highest officer’s position such as Master or Chief Engineer? is it OK if the applicant just has a Master/CE license but a position occupied for the last 3-5 years is CO/2E?

    Will be very appreciated for Your reply!!!

  29. Good Morning All,

    i have mentioned bellow requirements in order to become a Sire Vetting Inspectors.

    Please have a good look at it:

    Guidelines/ Requirements For Becoming a Successful SIRE Vetting Inspector
    All prospective Inspectors must, in first instance, apply to be an OCIMF member to undertake a necessary training leading to an examination and accreditation. Only OCIMF members are eligible to nominate an applicant for accreditation. Once an applicant is approved, OCIMF will arrange for the applicant to attend an approved SIRE Inspector Training Course and sit for the examination at an OCIMF designated examination centre.

    It is to note that employees of vessel operators are not eligible to attain SIRE Inspector Accreditation.

    Category 1 Inspectors: Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s of 3000 GT/ 3000 KW or more. Must have at least 5 years actual sea service aboard tankers of which not less than 2 years must have been senior officer on board a tanker and shall hold or have held Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be inspected or proof of satisfactory training under STCW Convention/Code, with a valid OCIMF Ship Inspector Training and Accreditation program.

    Category 2 Inspectors: Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s between 500 and 3000 GT/750 and 3000 KW Propulsion Power.
    The work experience and other certification remains same as listed above for Category 1 Inspectors.

    Category 3 Inspectors: Must hold or have held Certificate of Competency as Master or Officer In charge of navigation watch of ships less than 500 Gross tonnage issued by recognized Flag State Or
    Certificate of Competency as Second Engineer issued by recognized Flag State Or
    Nationally recognized Barge Master’s License Or
    Nationally recognized Barge Chief Engineer’s License Or
    Extensive day-to-day experience in Barge Operations or Barge Terminal Management
    Must have served at least 2 years on the type of vessel to be inspected or have undergone suitable training to inspect Category 3 Vessels with Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be Inspected, Or a certificate issued by Local Authority of Equivalent standard.

    The training of all these Inspectors is carried out in UK with SIRE Courses and Examinations. The applicants are exposed to various topics of International and Industry Structures, IMO, Vetting, OCIMF, SIRE, Accessing the SIRE website and Downloading Reports, The conduct of an Inspection and use of VIQ/ROVIQ and its questions and explanation of the features and use of SIRE VIQ software. Additional training is carried out for those Inspectors willing to inspect Chemical/Gas carriers.

    All applicants are required to pass a written General Examination at the end of training Course and undertake on-board training in form of accompanied inspections and finally, successfully undertake an on-board Audit in presence of SIRE Accredited Auditing Inspector.

    Regards.

  30. kindly advice how to become sire insoector
    I hv all qualification required to do so.
    how to apply and where
    how much this cost and location of exams.
    after certificates how to get the ships for inspection

    thanks
    ajay

  31. Dear sirs,
    I,m interest become Sire/cdi inspector pls guide me.
    For informations:
    a.have exp.more than 5 years as master in chemical/oil tanker with varoius flags and do vetting
    b.Have experience 1 years as marine inspector at TOTAL oil and gas
    But problem is now My companybis not OCIMF member.Any good one guide me to become Cdi/Sire inspector..pls teach me
    I have good work and highly appreciate for attn n reply.

    Warm regards/Capt.Kadim
    Mob:+6281310785874

  32. Dear sir,
    I want to become a member of OCIMF.

    What is the process?

    Kindly, provide the necessary information.

    Thank you.

    Kind regards,

  33. I have over 28 years of US Navy experience (8 as an inspector) and 7 years experience in U.S. govt ship building and regulation.

    How do I go about getting the necessary information for employment with your service.

    Thank you in advance

  34. I really liked the article. I would like more information on being a SIRE inspector. How do I become a member of OCIMF and the steps necessary to achieve success. If anyone can help me . My email ….. edelsonpm@hotmail.com

  35. Good day sir,

    I’m interested to become a sire/cdi inspector please guide me accordingly.

    Below is my information:
    My sea service with various types of tanker is almost 4 years as master with sire / cdi expirience in various oil company’s.

    Kindly guide me the process to become a sire inspector.

    My contact details:
    Email: joenelbausing70@gmail.com
    Tel: (63) 9953404264 / (63) 9172786022

  36. I am Capt. Onkar N.Sawant from Mumbai, India. I want to become a vetting inspector. Pls assist. My contact details are +91 9029340726.

  37. Im a tanker Master with long sailing experience of over 77mnths and looking forward to be a SIRE Vetting Inspector.Age 58yrs in good health and looking to associate with any OCIMF Inspection companies inorder to get accreditaion as SIRE Inspector.- Class I

    My mob nbr is +91-9665925156

  38. I have served with Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) for 23 Years Mostly on LPG Carriers, Apart from KOTC, other Tanker companies P&O Bulk shipping Company (As Trainee), BP, NITC and have more than 28 years of service on different Types of Tankers.
    Served as Master with KOTC from 2004, Mostly commanded on LPG Carriers, also on Crude and product tankers, Last Served as Master on LPG Carrier from 26.11.2017 to 05.03.2018. Holds Valid Class 1 Certificate / Oil & Gas DCE. DOB: 02.04.1956 and in good health.
    I am recently looking for onshore job and would like to associate myself with any OCIMF inspection company in Category 1 inspections.

    Best Regards
    Capt. Syed N. Haider

  39. Good day!
    i like to became vetting inspector, but i don’t have a sponsor for apply in SIRE accreditation course, pls guide me to find a sponsor.

  40. During I work on tanker Ship ,and so many i see ,the vessel is not standardization safety and almost i see the other vessel prepare only if want inspection and then ,since I am as be Master on tanker ship ,I am really to try made the vessel follow All our instruction following the Safety and Prevent pollution,and i found satisfy with the our crew ,and I am interest for a be Inspector for really implementation Safety,Security and prevent oil pollution,please guide me how to become Inspector

    Thanks Regards
    Capt.Fajarudin Amin.M.Mar

  41. @Fajarudin: As Virendra already explained, this is what you need:

    Guidelines/ Requirements For Becoming a Successful SIRE Vetting Inspector
    All prospective Inspectors must, in first instance, apply to be an OCIMF member to undertake a necessary training leading to an examination and accreditation. Only OCIMF members are eligible to nominate an applicant for accreditation. Once an applicant is approved, OCIMF will arrange for the applicant to attend an approved SIRE Inspector Training Course and sit for the examination at an OCIMF designated examination centre.

    It is to note that employees of vessel operators are not eligible to attain SIRE Inspector Accreditation.

    Category 1 Inspectors: Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s of 3000 GT/ 3000 KW or more. Must have at least 5 years actual sea service aboard tankers of which not less than 2 years must have been senior officer on board a tanker and shall hold or have held Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be inspected or proof of satisfactory training under STCW Convention/Code, with a valid OCIMF Ship Inspector Training and Accreditation program.

    Category 2 Inspectors: Must hold or have held a valid Master’s/Chief Engineer’s License from recognized Flag State for vessel’s between 500 and 3000 GT/750 and 3000 KW Propulsion Power.
    The work experience and other certification remains same as listed above for Category 1 Inspectors.

    Category 3 Inspectors: Must hold or have held Certificate of Competency as Master or Officer In charge of navigation watch of ships less than 500 Gross tonnage issued by recognized Flag State Or
    Certificate of Competency as Second Engineer issued by recognized Flag State Or
    Nationally recognized Barge Master’s License Or
    Nationally recognized Barge Chief Engineer’s License Or
    Extensive day-to-day experience in Barge Operations or Barge Terminal Management
    Must have served at least 2 years on the type of vessel to be inspected or have undergone suitable training to inspect Category 3 Vessels with Certificate of Advanced Training appropriate to the type of Vessel to be Inspected, Or a certificate issued by Local Authority of Equivalent standard.

    The training of all these Inspectors is carried out in UK with SIRE Courses and Examinations. The applicants are exposed to various topics of International and Industry Structures, IMO, Vetting, OCIMF, SIRE, Accessing the SIRE website and Downloading Reports, The conduct of an Inspection and use of VIQ/ROVIQ and its questions and explanation of the features and use of SIRE VIQ software. Additional training is carried out for those Inspectors willing to inspect Chemical/Gas carriers.

    All applicants are required to pass a written General Examination at the end of training Course and undertake on-board training in form of accompanied inspections and finally, successfully undertake an on-board Audit in presence of SIRE Accredited Auditing Inspector.

  42. Hi,
    I am qualified become a SIRE inspector.
    Experienced Oil/Chemical tanker as a Master and also experienced vetting superintendent, marine manager and now position as a port captain.

    I really want to be a SIRE inspector.

    Capt. SC Kim

  43. Hello sir
    Good day
    I am Rajiv Ranjan having 30 months experience of chief officer on Tanker
    I am holding Indian Master(FG) licence
    I am highly interested to do the SIRE inspector course but need guides to start

    Thanks/Best regards

  44. @Rajiv: Please use our forums for career related guidance -https://forums.marineinsight.com

  45. I think you are a good source for sailors professional development. I am 67 and have sailed on Tankers for quite long time. I have got extra qualifications now and wish to do some shore job. I shall be obliged if some job is searched for me.

    My Chief Engineer experience is 30 years. On Tankers of all types at least 16 years.
    I shall be thankful for your cooperation. Latest I signed off from Tanker Ship on May’ 2018.

    Qazi Muhammad Aqil
    Chief Engineer, CMarEng, CEng, FIMarEST, Member UKEC
    Cell: +92 333 4147 – Pakistan
    Email: Qazi_CE@outlook.com
    Email: qazimaqil111@gmail.com

    .

  46. I have sailed as a senior engineer officer on oil and Lng tankers for close to 15 years. Now a marine surveyor with an administration. I am interested the the SIRE inspection job but one has to be sponsored by an OCIMF member from all indications. Is there no other way about this or can’t one sponsor himself? Please advice. Thank you

  47. Where can I take a SIRE inspector course, I live in KL Interested to be one coz I’m an ex seafarers.

  48. @Jamaludin: different organisation and class authorities conduct the course (Wilhelmsen, Lloyds register etc.). you can also find details of the courses in OCIMF webiste

  49. i am chief engineer with more than 7 yrs on tankers and gas carrier(actual sailing) and interested in joing as vetting inspector.pls provide details.

  50. i am chief engineer with more than 7 years on tankers and gas carrier(actual sailing) and interested in joing as vetting inspector.pls provide details.

  51. Have a Blessed & Healthy Day Sir!!!

    Iam Capt. Victor D. Corales, Master Mariner for Oil/Chem/ Product, Bunker Tanker & Crude Oil Tanker for 15 Years, Looking forward to be a Vetting Inspector.

    Sincerely thanking you very much for your kind assistance!!

    God Speed!!!

  52. Interested of becoming a vetting inspector.i have almost met the requirement of being a senior officer for more than 5 years…can somebody or anybody willing to assist…and for sure i will be more willing to learn and contribute to the company if given a chance…best regards

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