The NMBAQC scheme is a quality assurance scheme developed on behalf of the UK competent monitoring authorities (CMAs). Its principal aim is to provide assessment of marine biological data contributing to UK national or European monitoring programmes.

The scheme also aims to develop and promote best practice in relation to sampling and analysis procedures through a range of training exercises, workshops and literature guides.

The scheme comprises of seven biological components each with its own set of training exercises and/or assessment modules.

Performance of all the participants is summarised in various bulletins and reports and in some exercises participant samples are selected and assessed against scheme standards to determine whether sample batches achieve acceptable quality. Participating labs are issued annually with a Statement of Performance certificate.

The participants in the Scheme include laboratories from Competent Monitoring Authorities (CMAs) in the UK and Ireland (Environment Agency, SEPA, CEFAS, Marine Scotland-Science, AFBI, NIEA, MI), the Conservation Agencies (represented by the Joint Nature Conservation Committee) and a number of independent environmental consultancies. Our current participation list can be found here.