Offshore construction supervision and efficiency control

As part of the monitoring during construction and the preparation of the subsoil by removing unexploded ordnance through controlled detonation at sea, our focus is on the species listed in Annex IV of the Habitats Directive and in particular the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena).

These strictly protected marine mammals require special consideration under species protection legislation. They are subject to the potential risk of disturbance or injury due to noise pollution during construction work and the removal of unexploded ordnance.

Accordingly, the authorities' requirements for minimising noise emissions have to be observed during construction work and controlled detonations, and the effectiveness of noise mitigation measures have to be monitored.

We ensure that everything runs smoothly in accordance with nature conservation regulations in close coordination with clients and authorities and provide all the necessary personnel and equipment to implement a project efficiently.

Monitoring during offshore construction work

In close co-operation with acousticians, we carry out efficiency controls during the sound-intensive foundation work of offshore structures both nationally and internationally.

Our expertise is in particular in passive acoustic monitoring, the detection of harbour porpoises using C- and F-PODs (Porpoise Detectors). 

We draw up deterrence concepts and advise construction companies and project developers on how to deter marine mammals in the most environmentally friendly way possible. 

We also prepare the required reports and carry out conservation assessments based on the collected data. 

For the practical work, we provide state-of-the-art deterrent devices to drive marine mammals away from high-noise risk areas. We also provide certified Marine Mammal Observers (MMO) and personnel to carry out the deterrence work as required.

Monitoring during the removal of unexploded ordnance (UXO)

Professional monitoring of subsoil preparation works with regard to the removal of unexploded ordnance has become increasingly important in recent years.

BioConsult SH advises in close co-operation with acousticians on the most environmentally friendly removal of unexploded ordnance.

We draw up deterrence and measurement concepts with regard to the occurrence of harbour porpoises, take over the reporting to the authorities and prepare nature conservation assessments.

Here too, we provide state-of-the-art deterrence equipment to drive marine mammals away from risk areas with high noise levels. If required, we will make certified Marine Mammal Observers (MMO) and personnel to carry out the deterrence available.

• Harbour porpoise deterrence concepts for noise-intensive interventions in the sea (pile driving/UXO removal, etc.)

• Deterrence of harbour porpoises during offshore construction activities
  • Provision of deterrence devices (pinger, SealScarer, APD)
  • Provision of offshore staff (MMO)
  • Acoustic online monitoring
  • Provision and service of C-POD/F-POD stations
• Data analysis and reporting (short reports, results reports, evaluation, statements)
• Digital aerial surveys of marine mammals and birds (HiDef) from the aircraft or using drones