At the MMOA, we recognise the diverse community of marine professionals operating offshore and onshore in our sector, many of whom work as freelancers year-round. As the field season gains momentum and numerous members embark on projects, we want to address the working environment and tackle the issue of unacceptable behaviours that persist. On vessels and installations, a myriad of cultures, ideologies, and opinions coexist, and while they may differ from our own, each individual must be treated with respect.
As a mitigation professional, you deserve respect both in your professional capacity and as a person. Similarly, your colleagues should be treated with the same level of respect; however, situations may arise where this respect is lacking. In such instances, it's crucial to take action. Whether at sea or onshore, speaking up about such behaviour is essential. You can confide in someone onboard or reach out to the onshore office to address the issue. Our Executive Committee members uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards certain comments and behaviours, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Here at the MMOA, we extend our support and guidance to all offshore marine mammal observers (MMOs) and passive acoustic monitoring operators (PAMOs), irrespective of their membership status. If you find yourself in need of assistance or advice, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are committed to providing professional and confidential support to provide a united and empowered international community.
Gordon Foot, an esteemed MMOA member, recently collaborated with our supporting organisation, the IMarEST, to advocate for ending bullying, harassment, and sexual assault at sea. We spoke to him about offshore etiquette, and here’s what he had to say:
“Offshore etiquette is not a ‘nice to have’, it is embedded in the seafarers’ psyche and it is the foundation on which we work and live together. This foundation has to be built on respect. In a business sense you are making an emotional investment, based on integrity, to do the right thing by your shipmate.”
To read more about experiences offshore, check out our interview with Daniella Bordon, who started as a marine mammal observer (MMO) and is now Global ESG Manager for BGP Offshore CNPC, for International Women's Day. If you need to contact someone regarding any of the issues raised above, please contact the Women Offshore's Sexual Assault and Violence Eradication (S.A.V.E.) or the Seafarers Trust.
We value the feedback, ideas, and active participation of our members, which drive the success of our organisation. We encourage both current and prospective members to engage with us, as your contributions are instrumental in shaping our community. Whether sharing insights, project details, or concerns, your input is invaluable. Feel free to email us at
