Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Onboard Sensors and Alarms Course
This course provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the detection and alert systems crucial to the safety and operational efficiency of any vessel. Learn about the operating principles, calibration, maintenance, and…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts14 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Onboard Sensors and Alarms Course?
The Sensors and Alarms Onboard course
This course provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the detection and alert systems crucial to the safety and operational efficiency of any vessel. Learn about the operating principles, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of pressure, temperature, level, flow, and other vital parameter sensors. Master the interpretation of alarms and response protocols in critical situations.
Key Benefits:
- In-depth Knowledge: Understand the technology behind each sensor and its impact on vessel performance.
- Preventive Maintenance: Learn to identify potential failures and perform maintenance tasks to extend the lifespan of sensors.
- Troubleshooting: Develop skills to diagnose and troubleshoot common problems in sensor and alarm systems.
- Enhanced Safety: Contribute to onboard safety through the correct interpretation of and response to alarms.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with maritime regulations related to monitoring and alerting systems.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Sensor Fundamentals: Master the basic principles of sensors used in onboard detection and monitoring.
- Alarm Types: Identify and understand the operation of different alarm systems: fire, intrusion, and technical faults.
- Systems Integration: Learn to integrate sensors and alarms into a comprehensive safety system, optimizing emergency response.
- Maintenance and Diagnostics: Acquire practical skills for preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and system repair.
- Regulations and Standards: Understand the relevant international regulations and standards for the installation and operation of onboard safety systems.
- Optimize onboard safety and emergency response with this comprehensive course on sensors and alarms.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Basics of sensors, alarms and basic monitoring in boats
- Concept of on-board sensors and alarms and differences between detection, measurement, warning, protection and automation
- Types of alarms: visual, sound, remote, local, critical, preventive and maintenance
- Variables monitored in boats: water, smoke, gas, temperature, battery, pressure, level, opening and movement
- Main Components: Sensors, Switchboards, Relays, Sirens, Indicators, Displays, Wiring and Power Supplies
- Relationship between safety, comfort, damage prevention, maintenance and operational continuity of the boat
02
Safety sensors, risk detection and protection of people on board
- Smoke, fire, carbon monoxide, fuel gases and vapors in enclosed spaces
- Flood sensors, presence of water, Bilge pumping pumps and Bilge alarms
- Temperature sensors, overheating, ventilation, engine room and technical zones
- Opening, movement, intrusion, presence and perimeter security in boats
- Correct location of sensors according to risk, ventilation, accessibility, maintenance and false alarms
03
Operating sensors, levels, energy and control of auxiliary systems
- Level sensors for fresh water, sewage, fuel, oil, auxiliary tanks and technical tanks
- Monitoring of batteries, voltage, current, charging status, consumption, chargers, inverters and solar panels
- Pressure, flow, temperature and operation sensors in pumps, motors, generators and hydraulic circuits
- Alarms associated with Bilge pumping pumps, fans, refrigerators, air conditioning, lights and auxiliary equipment
- Integration of sensors with panels, screens, home automation modules, internal networks and control systems
04
Installation, wiring, configuration and testing of nautical alarm systems
- Installation planning according to zones, risks, power available, wiring routes and user needs
- Wiring, connectors, protections, fuses, relays, waterproof terminals and good practices in the marine environment
- Setting thresholds, delays, sensitivity, zones, remote warnings and alarm priorities
- Functional tests of sensors, simulation of events, verification of sirens, lights, displays and notifications
- False alarm reduction by location, calibration, maintenance and parameter adjustment
05
Applied project of sensors and alarms on board
- Case definition: sailboat, boat, yacht, catamaran, tourist boat or work boat
- Risk analysis, critical zones, variables to be monitored and local or remote warning needs
- Selection of sensors, switchboard, wiring, power, visual alarms, audible and communication modules
- Design of the installation scheme, device location, threshold configuration and functional tests
- Preparation of the maintenance plan, diagnosis, response to incidents and future improvement of the system
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval maintenance engineers and technicians seeking to deepen their knowledge of the diagnosis and repair of critical sensor and alarm systems.Marine engineers and electricians responsible for the operation and maintenance of electronic equipment on board.Naval engineering students and related fields wishing to acquire practical knowledge of maritime control and safety systems.Technical insp
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Detect and respond to abnormal conditions on board
- 02Supervise and control the safety of the vessel and its cargo
- 03Facilitate navigation and maneuvering through sensory information
- 04Improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of incidents
- 05Optimize predictive maintenance and resource management
- 06Integrate and manage electronic security systems
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Security Systems Installation and Maintenance Technician: Installation, configuration, and maintenance of sensors and alarms on vessels.
02Maritime Security Consultant: Advising on the selection and implementation of electronic security systems.
03Maritime Security Inspector: Verifying compliance with safety regulations and the operation of onboard systems.
04Maritime Security Companies Support Technician: Customer service, troubleshooting, and training on the use of systems.
05Maritime Security Systems Sales Representative: Sales and promotion of sensors and alarms to shipping companies and individuals.
06Electronic Security Systems Designer: Development of customized solutions for vessels, integrating different sensors and alarms.
07Maritime Cybersecurity Specialist: Protection of security systems Onboard cybersecurity protection.
08Trainer in the use of maritime security systems: Delivery of courses and workshops on the operation and maintenance of sensors and alarms.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Alert the driver about potential problems or dangerous conditions of the vehicle or the environment.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Alert the driver about potential problems or dangerous conditions of the vehicle or the environment.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Technical training in electronics, electricity, or similar; or demonstrable experience in the installation and maintenance of security systems.Specific Knowledge:Understanding of detection principles, types of sensors (smoke, intrusion, etc.), alarm systems, and applicable regulations.Skills:Ability to interpret schematics, perform tests, diagnose faults, and troubleshoot electronic systems.Technical Requirements (if applicable):Proficiency in using electronic testing and measurement tools; Basic knowledge of networks and communications (if
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Frequently Asked Questions
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