ABOUT AMSO
The AMSO course delivers an understanding of mitigation requirements within the Arabian Peninsula and promotes the development of skills necessary for good cooperation when mitigation is required. These include having a professional attitude and following appropriate chains of command on offshore projects.
Who is this course developed by?
The programme content and design is a collaboration between Nautica Environmental Associates, headquartered in the UAE and Five Oceans Environmental Services in Oman, combining 30 years of experience in the region with leading scientists in the field of marine species identification.
This certification follows the formats of both the existing programmes, the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) MMO in the UK as well as the Protected Species Observer (PSO) programme in the Gulf of Mexico.
Objectives of the course
Upon completion of the course the trained delegates will have gained in-depth knowledge on the effects of anthropogenic impacts on the marine environment.
Delegates will be able to identify marine species of the Arabian Peninsula, make distance estimates and record valuable data on the behavior and distribution of the species exposed to the increasing offshore developments in these regions.
In addition to the above, the participants are equipped to provide advice to the crew on mitigation measures and regional guidelines.
Aims/philosophy of the course?
The Arabian Marine Species Observer Course (AMSO) is a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) course for professionals working in the maritime industry within the Arabian Peninsula.
The course aims to train competent marine species observers to identify, monitor, record and report on the presence of marine species within sensitive coastal and offshore areas to ensure appropriate mitigation is implemented.
Brief overview of the program
Days 1 & 2 - AMSO Theory
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Module 1 – Introduction
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Module 2 – Rules and Regulations
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Module 3 – Anthropogenic Noise and Effects on Marine Species
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Module 4 – Species Identification: Marine Mammals, Sea Turtles, Sharks and Rays
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Module 5 – Introduction to Turtle Nesting Surveys
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Module 6 – Offshore Recording, Reporting and Mitigation
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Module 7 – Emergency Response Protocols for Turtles
Day 3 – Practical*
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Practical session on observation techniques, data recording, distance estimation, binocular use, camera use and species identification.
* Attendance compulsory for full CPD Certification
Length of the course, level of learning
The programme is conducted over a 3-day window combining both classroom and field elements. A 2-day online format is also available, allowing for distance learning of theoretical elements.
The course introduces the marine species observer industry. It is aimed at acquisition of in-depth knowledge, attaining new skills and achieving competencies in marine species identification, distance estimation and implementation of impact mitigation protocols. It also helps experienced individuals broaden their knowledge on the site-specific legislative framework protecting Arabian marine species.
Learning outcomes and deliverables
Along with a certificate for completion of the course, participants will also receive the AMSO Field Guide, developed by our specialists as well as full access to our online learning materials.
Trainees will be equipped with the knowledge to monitor for Arabian marine species of concern and implement mitigation measures during offshore and coastal operations.
Upon completion of the course the trained delegates will:
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have an understanding of the legislative framework protecting the marine species of the Arabian Peninsula
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have gained in-depth knowledge on the types of underwater noise in the marine environment
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have an understanding of the effects of anthropogenic noise on marine species
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be able to identify marine species of the Arabian Peninsula
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make distance estimates to marine species from vessels
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record valuable and standardized data
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be equipped to provide advice on mitigation measures and regional guidelines to the crew.
Do I have to be available in person?
The AMSO Full Course is composed of a 2-day online theoretical component and a <1 day practical face-to-face session, which can be completed either in Abu Dhabi or in Oman. To receive the full AMSO Certification, participants must complete the entire 3-day course. Below is a summary of the Arabian Marine Species Observer (AMSO) Course.
Day 1 – Online Theory - Introduction to AMSO (5 hours)
Day 2 – Online Theory - AMSO Core Theory (5 hours)
Day 3 – Practical Session – Abu Dhabi or Oman (4 hours)
The AMSO online theory course is a 2-day programme covers only the theoretical components of the AMSO course intended exclusively for participants who already hold a valid international certification (such as the JNCC MMO and/or GOM PSO certifications).
Participants of the AMSO Online course will receive a certificate for the completion of the theoretical part of the AMSO course, along with digital copies of all course materials.
Who can take this course?
AMSO can be taken by just about anyone! The course contents are comprehensive but the level of detail can be adjusted to suit specific target groups.
Delegates are however required to have a clear understanding of the English language and must be able to communicate verbally and in writing. While anyone is eligible to take this course, clients are encouraged to consider experienced individuals with the appropriate levels of education (e.g. marine biologists/oceanographers) when employing full-time Marine Species Observers.
