Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) Courses

The primary function of Marine Mammal Observers (MMOs) onboard seismic survey vessels is to monitor for marine mammals and ensure that the survey is conducted in compliance with the JNCC guidelines for minimising the risk of injury and disturbance to marine mammals. It is a prerequisite for all MMOs working in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) to have been trained on a course that has been recognised by JNCC.

Please note that JNCC does not recognise MMO courses for observers working outside of the UKCS. JNCC is a statutory advisor to UK Government (and devolved administrations) and as such the MMO courses recognised by JNCC and registered on our website are only relevant to the UKCS.

The JNCC recognised MMO courses explain the rationale and requirements of the JNCC guidelines so that upon completion, attendees know how to perform the duties of an MMO. The courses provide background information that is relevant to the understanding of the guidelines and duties of the MMO and cover a wide range of aspects including, but not restricted to: the types of seismic surveys used in the offshore industry (i.e. 2D, 3D, VSP etc), identification of marine mammals common to the UKCS, aspects relating to the ecology of marine mammals (e.g. behaviour, utility of sound, distribution, migration etc), instruction on how to complete the standard JNCC recording forms and the type of information to include within the MMO report. The course may also include a basic introduction to acoustic detection techniques for cetaceans (e.g. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM)) if appropriate. However, please note that the JNCC do not recognise any PAM courses. An outline of the standards we look for in the MMO courses we recognise, for example, the level of experience required of course providers and suggestions on possible course content is provided here.

The following MMO courses have registered with JNCC to provide training courses for observers working within the UKCS. Please direct all enquiries regarding the costing and timing of such courses to the course providers.

Nick Robinson

Tel: +44(0)1493 845600

Booking contact:

Address: Marine Wildlife Department, Gardline Environmental Limited, Admiralty Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 3NG