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Observer Training

MRAG

Prior to accepting their first tour of duty in a new fishery, our policy is to require all observers to undertake a training program, run by MRAG, irrespective of their level of experience. This ensures that each observer has the necessary background information and skills to carry out observer work to the highest standard possible. It also provides candidates with the opportunity to exchange information with regards techniques and ever changing conservation measures. The training program is easily modified, as necessary, to meet the needs of specific observer programs.

Training Program

MRAG’s training program for observers includes the following key components:

i) The Region and its Fisheries

ii) The Fisheries Observer and Fishing Vessel Operations iii) Boarding and Safety at Sea iv) The Role and Duties of the Observer

In addition to this training program, a variety of media have been used to give observer trainees a full understanding of the duties involved in their day-to-day tasks and the conditions they will be working under. Videos, slide shows and photographs help trainees picture the work and identify relevant species. Where possible, practical instruction by a senior observer aboard an operating vessel provides the best means of informing new trainees about the nature of the work.

If practical training aboard fishing vessels is not possible, an Observer Training Video is prepared from material taken on board by specially selected observers. This acts as an excellent means by which to inform new and prospective trainees about specific conditions and requirements.

Observer Manual

In addition to the training courses, which include both practical and theoretical aspects of observer operations for each observer program, MRAG develops an Observer Manual for all personnel to take into the field. The main purpose of this briefing document is to ensure that the observers understand the conditions under which they will be working, and to provide advice on preparation for their tour of duty. It also explains what is expected of them with respect to their conduct as fisheries observers on the fishing vessels and provides specific advice on radio protocol. The manual includes a detailed fish identification guide, identification guides for sea birds and marine mammals if necessary, and information on the latest regulations for each species.

Observer Briefings

Prior to embarking on a tour of duty, observers come into the MRAG offices to pickup kit, sign contracts, obtain travel tickets and, more importantly, be updated on the program of work by the Observer Program Manager. Any recent changes or additional information to the observer protocol are given, and any queries answered. A short recap is given about the duties involved and on filling in logbooks.

Experience has shown that, in addition to formal data collection, much ad hoc information can usefully be gathered by observers operating in commercial fisheries. The utility of this information is significantly enhanced if the observers themselves are well-briefed, and have a good understanding of the fishery and their function in its operation. The training course and manual has a central role in the development of this understanding.

Occupational Health and Safety Standards

(1) Medical Requirements. All observers are required to undertake a suitable medical examination prior to deployment to show that they are physically fit and prepared for spending two to three months at sea. In the UK we use the certified Merchant Shipping Medical. An example of the certificate can be provided.

(2) Safety at Sea. All observers working with MRAG are required to complete a Sea Survival Training Course. In the UK we use the Merchant Navy Training Board basic sea survival course, approved by the Department of Transport and the Seafish Industry Authority. Safety at sea is also a major item in the observers briefing at MRAG, with substantial advisory material included in observers’ manuals.

Observer Rotation Policy

MRAG continuously monitors the performance of observers in each of its observer programs. A pool of qualified observers is maintained and observers are rotated both within and between programs to the greatest extent possible. Individual observer deployments are restricted to a maximum period of three months, and wherever possible the same observer will not undertake consecutive trips on the same vessel.