Nevis Environmental has highlighted the importance of requiring a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) before carrying out major marine work.

A total of 28 species of cetaceans reside in UK waters. Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoise), are listed as European protected species and are fully safeguarded under the Conservation (Natural Habitats) regulations 1994.

It is an offence to intentionally, or recklessly, kill, injure, capture, disturb or harass these animals. They are very sensitive to underwater noise as they are dependent on their hearing for foraging, communication and navigation. Underwater noise has several negative impacts on cetaceans including masking social communication, temporary or permanent hearing loss or impairment, displacement from preferred habitat and disruption of feeding. In severe cases, it can affect breeding and nursing, causing strandings, which may be fatal to marine mammals.

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Developments in coastal areas, whether they are expansions or improvements of ports and harbours, flood alleviation schemes or bridge construction, will often involve some form of pile driving or drilling. This can be harmful to marine mammals, therefore planning conditions often requires a Marine Mammal Observer (MMO) on site.

An MMO must be competent and experienced in identifying marine species. The MMO's role is to monitor the works area for the presence of sensitive marine species both prior to and during construction, and then communicate their findings directly with operators. This not only ensures marine mammals are protected from disturbance during works, but also that both the client and contractor are working to the regulations and following best practice.

The bse methodology involves an exclusion zone of a 500m radius from the source of disturbance; this will be scanned for a minimum of 30 minutes prior to the start of any works. If cetaceans are observed in the exclusion zone, works should be delayed until the animals are at a safe distance. Should cetaceans enter the exclusion zone during works, works must cease immediately until they have left the area. Where no cetaceans have been detected, works can start; employing a soft start of low activity before reaching full power to deter any animals near the works.

Having an MMO on site allows work to be carried out in sensitive areas without subjecting marine mammals to dangerous noise levels.

Nevis Environmental can furnish a project's marine requirements. For more information, visit here.

www.nevisenvironmental.com