“It has been both an honour and a pleasure representing ExCom for ten years"
Director's Log
I would like to announce that on 31 July, Nick Potter (Shell) stepped down as Executive Committee (ExCom) Chair, and ExCom appointed Lambros Klaoudatos (bp) as the incoming Chair.
In recognition of Nick’s commitment and close involvement with OCIMF over the last decade, I would like to share his thoughts on his tenure and the people he has engaged with during this time with you:
“It has been both an honour and a pleasure representing ExCom for ten years, with the last two and a half years as Chair, supporting our Members as we work towards a vision of a marine industry that causes no harm to people or the environment. Through the dedication of our secretariat, committees and workgroups, we have achieved a huge amount. SIRE 2.0 will go live shortly, we have produced best practices and responded to multiple security incidents, increased our environmental focus and grown our cross-industry advocacy, collaboration and thought leadership.
“My sincere thanks to all of you for your support and for making a difference – and to my Excom colleagues for your expertise and insight. There remains much to do in our mission of safety, security and the environment and I have every confidence in Lambros Klaoudatos as he takes over the reins.”
On behalf of OCIMF and its ExCom members, I would like to thank Nick for his dedication to OCIMF and especially for his leadership over the last two and a half years. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to Chair Lambros Klaoudatos.
Karen Davis, Director OCIMF
OCIMF welcomes new Chair
OCIMF is pleased to announce Lambros Klaoudatos, Senior Vice President, bp Shipping, as OCIMF’s new Chair. Lambros will be taking up the role with immediate effect.
“As we move forward during this time of change, OCIMF’s priorities remain clear and consistent. Promoting the safety of our industry and the maritime environment within which we operate is paramount; OCIMF will continue to advocate for and uphold the highest safety standards by implementing SIRE 2.0 and promoting best practices for tankers, barges, terminals and offshore installations. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, taking meaningful steps on our ongoing journey towards a better, more equitable environment for everyone at sea.
“Finally, OCIMF is dedicated to strengthening and supporting our industry efforts towards a net zero shipping future. Together, we will navigate the seas ahead, driving progress forward.”
OCIMF meets senior maritime officials in India
An OCIMF delegation visited Delhi and Mumbai in June to discuss key maritime issues including safety, our inspection programmes OVID and SIRE, the energy transition and security matters.
OCIMF was hosted by the Government of India and met with the Director General (DG) Shipping, Shri Shyam Jaganathan (IAS), First Secretary, Ministry of Shipping, Ports and Waterways, Shri T K Ramachandran (IAS), Director Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) Capt Sachin Singh, among others.
The OCIMF team also visited the IFC-IOR offices, where they were presented with an overview of its role, how it is supporting the Indian Navy and the joint allied forces operation Prosperity Guardian to ensure safety for seafarers transiting the volatile Red Sea. OCIMF Managing Director Karen Davis was invited as the Guest of Honour to celebrate the annual Day of the Seafarer.
OCIMF visited the Anglo Eastern Maritime Training Academy in Karjit, and witnessed the outstanding training being offered to new entrants. OCIMF P&A Director Saurabh Sachdeva met with the Chairman of Mumbai Port, Shri Anup Jalota (IAS), to discuss OCIMF’s terminal safety programmes and the role India can play in support of CEM-Hubs and Green Corridors to aid maritime decarbonisation in line with IMO’s Greenhouse Gas strategy.
DG Shipping and OCIMF have agreed to work together on areas of mutual interest including environmental protection, safety, welfare and security issues.
For further information, contact Saurabh Sachdeva, OCIMF P&A Director, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
OCIMF presents at International Tanker Seminar
OCIMF was pleased to be invited to the International Tanker Seminar hosted by the International Chamber of Shipping in London on 11 July.
Aaron Cooper, OCIMF Programmes Director, addressed the attendees from a broad spectrum of the marine industry. Topics highlighted included a history of OCIMF and more specifically the development of OCIMF Programmes (SIRE, BIRE, OVID) since inception, including the rationale for transitioning to SIRE 2.0.
Taking into account the diverse industry background of attendees, Aaron also emphasised that the principles of SIRE 2.0 should not been seen as exclusive to the tanker industry. Digitisation, a focus on significant risks, the establishment of metrics and Key Performance Indicators, as well as the adoption of human factors are relevant across all industries and should be considered. The seminar ended with a lively Q&A session.
For more information, contact Aaron Cooper, OCIMF Programmes Director, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Maritime security snippets
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) International Maritime Bureau (IMB) is calling for sustained vigilance to protect seafarers amid increasing violence despite an overall drop in the number of incidents reported.
IMB’s mid-year report for 2024, released on 11 July, showed a total of 60 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships recorded in the first half of 2024, a decrease from 65 incidents for the same period in 2023. Of the 60 incidents reported, 46 vessels were boarded, eight reported attempted attacks, four were hijacked and two were fired upon. Perpetrators successfully boarded 84% of targeted vessels. Violence towards crew continues, with 85 taken hostage compared to 36 in the same period last year. 
The ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO said: “While we are reassured to see a fall in the number of overall reported acts of piracy, the concerning rise in incidents of a violent nature underscores the need for continued vigilance from the international community to ensure the safety of all seafarers — especially at this time of heightened uncertainty for maritime transport.”
Vessel owners/operators and Masters are urged to follow the guidelines in the latest version of the Best Management Practices (BMP 5).
The full report can be downloaded here.
New information paper assesses Overridable Power Limitation
OCIMF’s new information paper, Compliance with EEXI Regulation: Risks associated with Power Limitation, provides best practice guidance for managing the risks associated with the implementation andImage operation of Overridable Power Limitation (OPL) on existing ships.
The IMO’s greenhouse gas reduction targets are designed to support global efforts against climate change. Short-term measures to improve energy efficiency on existing ships include the application of technical-efficiency measures, known as EEXI. When existing designs do not meet the EEXI criteria, shipowners may wish to explore the option of applying an OPL to the maximum continuous rating output of the ship’s propulsion system. This is a potentially simple and cost-effective way to meet the IMO’s newly introduced Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) regulation. This paper covers the two types of OPL: Engine Power Limitation and Shaft Power Limitation.
The paper is available to download free of charge here.
DOWNLOAD INFORMATION PAPER HERE
OCIMF engages with Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping
OCIMF recently held a strategic meeting in Copenhagen with the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. The primary focus of the discussions was to explore ongoing efforts and shared objectives related to the decarbonisation of the shipping industry.
Key topics addressed during the meeting included the safety protocols and operational guidelines for alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia. The conversation also extended to implementing onshore power supply systems, which are critical to reducing carbon emissions in ports and during ship berthing.
Both OCIMF and the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center recognised their common goals and potential areas for collaboration to advance the maritime sector’s transition to zero-carbon solutions. This collaboration reinforces their mutual commitment to enhancing safety standards and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
For further information or enquiries, contact Filipe Santana, OCIMF Engineering Adviser, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
OCIMF attends Port Call Optimisation event in Rotterdam
OCIMF was invited to a Port Call Optimisation workshop organised by the port of Rotterdam on 3-4 July 2024. OCIMF was represented by its Ship-Shore Expert Group (SSEG) Lead, Anne Beverwijk and its Nautical Adviser Kevin Coelho.
Numerous stakeholders from ports and other relevant bodies were in the room. Discussions focused on coordinating work for port-to-port implementation. This revolved around firming up terminology, the difference between operational, nautical and administrative data in the context of maritime operations, and requests for volunteers to write up relevant papers for submission to the IMO.
Other points of note included a discussion of data elements – exchange of data, regulatory involvement, digital identity standards – and the exchange of data between terminals and ports, which is not standardised or mandated across the globe. On safety, it was noted that port call optimisation is currently aimed at the container sector, but will be rolled out across the industry. It is therefore important to adhere to industry best practice guidelines to ensure that safety is not comprom ised. The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) is currently engaged in a study to reflect improved safety following fewer ship movements in port. An efficient port is one in which there are fewer unnecessary ship movements.
For further information, contact Kevin Coelho, OCIMF Nautical Adviser, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
OCIMF visits Seafar Remote Operations Centre
OCIMF’s Nautical Adviser Kevin Coelho visited Seafar, a Marine Autonomous Surface Shipping Remote Operations Centre (MASS ROC) based in Antwerp, Belgium, in July.
IMO discussions about MASS continue to gather momentum. These include identification and addressing of all risks associated with MASS operations, reliability of communications and network governance, training requirements for MASS operators and safety management aspects of ROCs.
Worldwide, there are now more than 1,000 maritime autonomous vessels operated by over 50 organisations. There will be a growing demand for seafarers onboard inland barges/vessels, and there is likely to be a shortage of seafarers to meet crewing requirements. 
The purpose of OCIMF’s visit was to gain a better understanding of how MASS operations are run out of an ROC and answer some frequently asked questions. Kevin was shown around the operations centre by Seafar Traffic Controller Manolito Fernandez (pictured).
For further information, contact Kevin Coelho, OCIMF Nautical Adviser, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
OCIMF takes part in Methanol Bunkering Working Group
OCIMF actively participated in the Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel (SGMF) Methanol Bunkering Working Group meeting held in Copenhagen on 10–11 July.
This collaborative event, part of the Memorandum of Understanding between SGMF and OCIMF, focused on finalising the technical elements of a forthcoming publication titled 'Methanol as a Marine Fuel – Safety and Operational Guidelines – Bunkering', set to be released in October 2024.
The guidelines aim to provide comprehensive safety and operational advice for stakeholders involved in methanol bunkering, including shipowners, operators, suppliers, maritime administrations and port authorities. The publication is expected to become a crucial reference for the marine industry, with a strong emphasis on mitigating risks and ensuring safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible bunkering processes. The meeting in Copenhagen marked a significant step towards achieving these objectives, reinforcing the commitment of both organisations to enhancing marine fuel safety standards.
For further information or enquiries, contact Filipe Santana, OCIMF Engineering Adviser, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Ship to Ship Transfer Guide Revision Working Group\
The Ship to Ship Transfer Guide Revision Working Group has been meeting monthly, either online or in person. It met face-to-face for its ninth meeting at the ICS offices in London on 18–20 June, preceded by a Steering Group meeting at the OCIMF office on 17 June. Participants included OCIMF and co-authors ICS, CDI and SIGTTO.
The Nautical Adviser, Project Support consultant and the working group lead provided a status overview and an update on work undertaken since the last meeting. Detailed discussions took place about ongoing work and the timeline. Working group members used the opportunity to raise questions and clarify any uncertainties.
The next couple of meetings will be virtual with a final face-to-face planned for October.
For further information, contact Kevin Coelho, OCIMF Nautical Adviser This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
VIP Steering Group
12–13 June 2024
Chair: Raj Shetty (ENOC)
Vice-Chair: Deb Cobb (Marathon)
Secretary: Aaron Cooper (OCIMF Programmes Director)
OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Secretariat members along with the VIP Steering Group met on 12–13 June in London for a workshop to review the progress of Phase 3 of the SIRE 2.0 transition. This was a follow up to the March 2023 workshop to share updates of the progress being made towards launching SIRE 2.0. The workshop included a review of all critical success factors related to training and accreditation, hardware, software, inspections, procurement and logistics, industry advocacy, quality and communications.
Further communications related to SIRE 2.0 go-live will be communicated to industry shortly. In the meantime, we continue to strongly encourage all programme users to review the SIRE 2.0 material on the OCIMF website SIRE 2.0 (ocimf.org) to ensure readiness.
For further details, contact Aaron Cooper, OCIMF Programmes Director, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Innovation and Technology Expert Group
Chair: Zillur Rahman (STASCO - Shipping and Maritime Assurance)
Supported by: William J. Elkins (OCIMF Senior IT Manager)
Last meeting: 24 July 2024
The Innovation and Technology Expert Group (ITEG) moved forward on several issues. The proposed revisions to the ITEG Terms of Reference (ToR) were accepted by the group. The focus of the ToR is on cybersecurity, identification and use of emerging technologies, and data integrity and quality. The group believes these revisions will achieve the intended goals of the ITEG.
The Scope of work for a follow-up assurance review of OCIMF Programmes Cybersecurity was finalised and accepted by the ITEG. This will be the reference document used for the selection of the third-party assessment in 2025.
In preparation for providing cybersecurity input for the various management self-assessment frameworks, the group initiated a skills inventory that will inform requirements for additional member participation. The efforts will align with the Publications and Advocacy schedule.
For more information, contact William J. Elkins, OCIMF Senior IT Manager, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Revision of Manning at Conventional Marine Terminals
The Ship to Shore Expert Group reviewed the current edition of the OCIMF information paper Manning at Conventional Marine Terminals (2008) and noted that although the principles of this document are still valid, the document is due for a revision to reflect current industry best practice.
A working group has been formed and met virtually in June to kick start this piece of work, with a further meeting held in July. Topics discussed at the meetings included the following:
- Berth operator minimum onboarding requirements.
- Improvements/advancements in technology.
- Human factors – conducting walkabouts, interactions with people and equipment.
- Digitisation, Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies.
- New cargoes/new fuels – requirement of additional awareness training for berth operators and management.
For further information, contact Kevin Coelho, OCIMF Nautical Adviser This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
IMO news
74th session of the Technical Cooperation Committee (TC 74)
TC 74 was held at the IMO headquarters from 24–28 June. The TC oversees the variety of projects led or supported by the IMO globally, to assist with the implementation of IMO’s international treaties related to maritime safety and prevention and control of maritime pollution. It does so by providing technical assistance to developing countries by developing appropriate human and institutional resources, and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals in doing so.
The following discussions of relevance to OCIMF membership took place during this meeting:
Capacity-development for women in maritime
Although positively rising in number, it is estimated that presently only 1.2% of the global seafarers are women. Through its ‘Women in Maritime’ programme, the IMO seeks to enhance participation in both shore-based and seagoing positions. Some of the ways it is doing so is by assigning gender-specific fellowships, facilitating training and establishing relevant maritime associations, particularly in developing countries. In this respect, TC 74 noted the actions taken by the following Member States:
- India, in developing guidelines for medical examiners to facilitate admission of those who identify as transgender or non-binary, into maritime courses.
- Brazil, in developing guidance for preventing harassment in the Brazilian maritime sector.
IMO Council 132
The Council is the supervisory body of the IMO and is currently made up of 40 Member States who are elected by the governing Assembly every two years. and the 132nd session of the IMO Council (C 132) from 8–12 July 2024.
The following events of relevance to OCIMF membership were observed during this meeting:
Condemnation of Red Sea Attacks
Led by the Secretary General, the Council condemned the ongoing attacks on ships in the Red Sea region, which was significantly impacting seafarers and commercial shipping, calling for it to end.
IMO Awards for Exceptional Bravery at Sea
The awards went out to two nominees who will be celebrated during an awards ceremony in December 2024:
- Captain and crew of oil tanker Marlin Luanda for their actions in containing an intense fire on board after being struck by a missile in the Gulf of Aden region.
- Captain and crew of tugboat Pemex maya for rescuing six personnel from four different vessels during a hurricane in the Pacific coast off Mexico.
World Maritime Day theme 2025
In recognition of the ocean’s vital role to the world economy and sustenance, the Council endorsed the World Maritime Day theme for 2025 ‘Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity’ to highlight the significance of collaboration to ensure sustainable and safe use of ocean resources.
For any enquiries, contact Abhijit Aul, OCIMF Risk and Regulatory Affairs Adviser, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.