The community structure analysis component of BEQUALM has been developed and taken forward by the UK National Marine Biological Analytical Quality Control Scheme (NMBAQC), essentially extending this existing QA/QC scheme into Europe. The European programme started in 2003. Full details of the UK NMBAQC scheme can be found at the NMBAQC web site.

Overview of NMBAQC

A national scheme for benthic community AQC was initiated in 1994, focussing upon biological determinands relating to the UK National Marine Monitoring Programme (NMMP), namely taxonomy, specimen enumeration, biomass determination and sediment particle size analysis. Whilst initially aimed at addressing problems within laboratories contributing to the NMMP, other marine laboratories/contractors, recognising the value of such a scheme, have also joined. The NMMP became CSEMP (Clean Seas Environmental Monitoring Programme) in 2006.

The principal aim of NMBAQC 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 annual programme is flexible and agreed by the NMBAQC Committee each year.

The scheme organises and operates a suite of exercises including intercalibration exercises (ring-tests), 'own sample' analysis, sediment particle size methodology, checking of laboratory reference samples, biomass estimation and regularly holds workshops on sampling techniques, data comparison and taxonomy.

Targets of achievement have been set for many of the exercises. This allows objective scrutiny of achievement and 'flagging' of the data (e.g. excellent, good, acceptable, poor, fail), primarily for those labs participating in the NMMP. Clearly the value of participation is not in just in passing or failing but in improving taxonomic skills and laboratory techniques. Participation in the scheme must be seen as a good source of external quality control, the NMBAQC programme is not an accreditation scheme.

Participants receive interim reports after completion of each component and a summary annual report. Participation is by fee payment for all or selected components of the scheme.

The BEQUALM/NMBAQC Programme of events can be found on the NMABQC website. Information on the different components can also be found here

© Crown Copyright 2003