In response to demand from various Clients, we have established a specialist laboratory dedicated to the identification of marine macrofauna. This service has been so successful that we are currently relocating to a new, considerably larger, laboratory.

Originally commissioned during January and February 2002, our new laboratory provides workstations for eight taxonomist and is equipped with stereo and high-power microscopes and a comprehensive library of taxonomic literature.

All sorting and identification is carried out to the exacting standards of the NMBAQC (National Marine Biological Analytical Quality Control) Scheme. All work is carried out under strict health and safety guidelines.

Statistical analysis of survey results is carried out using PRIMER software developed by the University of Plymouth. This software produces a variety of both univariate and multivariate indicators of change in the biological community within a survey area. Techniques including cluster analysis and multi-dimensional scaling are used to indicate differences between biological samples. Physical and chemical data from individual stations are described using principal component analysis. Any trends in environmental data are then statistically related to changes in the biological community, with the aim of describing which environmental factors correlate most closely with changes in the biological community.

NMBAQC Accreditation

The NMBAQC Scheme was originally developed to provide a form of QA and QC for the data resulting from the National Marine Monitoring Plan (NMMP). The aim is to assess of the reliability of data collected as part of the NMMP and, more generally, to improve the standards of marine biology in the UK.

The participants in the Scheme include laboratories from the Environment Agency, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, CEFAS, SOAEFD, DANI, IRTU, the nature conservation agencies (represented by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee) and a number of independent environmental consultancies. DTI specifications state that laboratories undertaking work for the North Sea Oil and Gas industry should have NMBAQC accreditation.

Anaysis and Interpretation

Physico-chemical analysis of sediment samples is performed by various UKAS accredited UK based laboratories. Routine analyses within the North Sea include particle size analysis (PSA), hydrocarbon analysis and heavy and trace metal analysis. Our subcontracted laboratories perform these analyses to DTI recommended specifications.

Interpretation and presentation of analysed data is undertaken in-house by our experienced team of report writers. Statistical analysis is used to aid interpretation using appropriate methodologies (Spearman's Rank Correlation and Pearson's Correlation Coefficient). Colour plots illustrating spatial distribution of data are used to assist interpretation and presentation.

Reports are tailor-made for each Client and will present findings of the environmental surveys. DVD footage of real time subsea imagery is presented with the report along with accompanying descriptive logs. Reporting times can be requested by the Client to assist with licence applications and Environmental Statements.