One study found that marine mammals were affected by offshore shutdown work. However, their behavior returned to normal once the project was complete. Researchers from the University of Aberdeen investigated the impact on dolphins in the Moray Firth. During the removal of Jackey Oil Platform.

They found that noise levels in the water had increased by up to 40 decibels. Due to the presence of several vessels during the shutdown. The dolphins were displaced, but by less than 2 km (1.2 mi), similar to the impact any ship would normally have on a mammal. This study will likely be used to provide evidence for the approval process for future decommissioning projects regarding oil platform.