Emergency Signals and Communication Course
Why this course?
The Emergency Signals and Communication
course
This course provides you with the essential skills to act effectively in critical situations. Learn to master standard communication protocols, from the correct use of visual and acoustic signals to the effective transmission of distress messages. This program equips you to respond quickly and accurately to emergencies, ensuring your own safety and the safety of others. Acquire the practical knowledge to interpret and correctly use all available alert and communication systems.
Differentiating Advantages
- Realistic Simulations: Practice in simulated emergency scenarios to improve your response time and decision-making.
- Certified Experts: Learn from instructors with extensive experience in emergency management and communication protocols.
- Comprehensive Learning Materials: Access up-to-date resources and practical guides for a deep understanding of key concepts.
- Recognized Certification: Obtain a certification that validates your skills in emergency signals and communication.
- Immediate Applicability: Acquire practical skills that you can immediately apply in various professional and personal contexts.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 25-04-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Security personnel, first responders, and emergency managers who wish to master protocols for signage, evacuation, and effective communication in critical situations.
- High-risk workers (construction, industry, mining) who require in-depth knowledge of safety signs, protective equipment, and incident response.
- Members of the educational and business community interested in creating safe environments, training their teams, and preventing accidents through proper signage.
- HR and occupational risk prevention managers who seek to update their knowledge of regulations, improve communication in emergencies, and reduce accidents.
- Students and professionals in technical fields (engineering, safety) seeking official certification in Emergency signage and communication protocols.
Flexibility and applicability
Adapted to different sectors: practical examples, real-world cases, and customized simulations to optimize emergency response.
Objectives and competencies
Master visual and auditory signaling techniques:
To correctly interpret signals and lights, using available communication equipment to confirm intentions and avoid risky situations.
Establish and maintain effective communication in critical situations:
“Convey clear and concise information, using standardized phraseology (IMO) and adapting to the audience (crew, authorities, emergencies).”
Use emergency communication systems to request and receive assistance:
“Use the DSC and other radio equipment to issue distress alerts, respecting priority protocols and transmitting accurate information about the situation, location, and type of assistance required.”
Apply standardized communication protocols in risk scenarios:
Use the OODA (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) format adapted to the emergency situation, prioritizing safety and minimizing damage.
Prioritize the transmission of vital information during emergencies:
“Establish clear and concise communications, prioritizing distress, safety and location messages, using designated channels (DSC, radiotelephony) and emergency protocols.”
Evaluate and optimize the effectiveness of emergency signaling methods:
“Identify areas for improvement in emergency communication, considering human, technological, and environmental factors.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to GMDSS Systems: Purpose, scope, and regulations.
- Radio Fundamentals: Frequencies, modulation, propagation, and antennas.
- GMDSS Radio Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, EPIRB, SART, NAVTEX, and DSC.
- Marine Meteorology: Weather observation, analysis, and forecasting systems.
- Interpreting Weather Bulletins: Winds, waves, visibility, ice, and hazardous phenomena.
- Weather Charts: Isobars, fronts, pressure centers, and atmospheric systems.
- Weather Alerts: Alert levels, dissemination, response, and coordination.
- Emergency Procedures: Mayday, Pan Pan, SecuritƩ, and communication with rescue centers.
- SMDSM communication protocols: Message formats, priorities, and call procedures.
- Drills and practical exercises: Equipment use, communication, and emergency response.
‘
- Introduction to alert systems: types, purposes, and regulations.
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, HF, MF, DSC, NAVTEX.
- Operation of emergency beacons: EPIRB, PLB, SART.
- Emergency communication networks: INMARSAT, COSPAS-SARSAT.
- Call and response protocols: GMDSS procedures.
- Early warning systems: hazard detection and notification.
- Organization of emergency response: roles and responsibilities.
- Contingency plans: development, implementation, and evaluation.
- Emergency drills and exercises: types, planning, and execution.
- Maintenance and testing of radio communication equipment and emergency systems.
‘
- Introduction to alert protocols: Types and levels of alert.
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, HF, UHF. Operation and basic maintenance.
- Early warning systems: Sensors, detectors, and notification systems.
- Maritime radiocommunications: GMDSS, DSC, NAVTEX. Procedures and frequencies.
- Emergency networks: Operation and communication protocols in critical situations.
- Global positioning systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo. Emergency Use.
- Calculating the range and coverage of radio communications.
- Emergency communications plan: Definition of roles, responsibilities, and channels.
- Drills and practical exercises: Implementation of protocols and systems.
- Post-incident reports and lessons learned: Continuous improvement of protocols.
‘
- Introduction to SAR Operations: Legal and Organizational Framework
- Alert Systems: COSPAS-SARSAT, INMARSAT, VHF DSC
- Maritime Radiocommunications: GMDSS, Frequencies, Procedures
- SAR Radiocommunication Equipment: Portable Radios, EPIRBs, SARTs
- SAR Communication Protocols: Message Formats, Channels
- Phases of a SAR Operation: Alert, Uncertainty, Danger, Search, Rescue
- SAR Search Techniques: Search Patterns, Use of Electronic Aids
- SAR Coordination: Coordination Centers, Roles and Responsibilities
- First Responders
SAR Assistance: Victim stabilization and transfer
Safety in SAR Operations: Risks and preventive measures
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - MĆ³dulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to GMDSS Systems: Purpose, scope, and regulations.
- Radio Fundamentals: Frequencies, modulation, propagation, and antennas.
- GMDSS Radio Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat, EPIRB, SART, NAVTEX, and DSC.
- Marine Meteorology: Weather observation, analysis, and forecasting systems.
- Interpreting Weather Bulletins: Winds, waves, visibility, ice, and hazardous phenomena.
- Weather Charts: Isobars, fronts, pressure centers, and atmospheric systems.
- Weather Alerts: Alert levels, dissemination, response, and coordination.
- Emergency Procedures: Mayday, Pan Pan, SecuritƩ, and communication with rescue centers.
- SMDSM communication protocols: Message formats, priorities, and call procedures.
- Drills and practical exercises: Equipment use, communication, and emergency response.
‘
- Introduction to alert systems: types, purposes, and regulations.
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, HF, MF, DSC, NAVTEX.
- Operation of emergency beacons: EPIRB, PLB, SART.
- Emergency communication networks: INMARSAT, COSPAS-SARSAT.
- Call and response protocols: GMDSS procedures.
- Early warning systems: hazard detection and notification.
- Organization of emergency response: roles and responsibilities.
- Contingency plans: development, implementation, and evaluation.
- Emergency drills and exercises: types, planning, and execution.
- Maintenance and testing of radio communication equipment and emergency systems.
‘
- Introduction to alert protocols: Types and levels of alert.
- Radiocommunication equipment: VHF, HF, UHF. Operation and basic maintenance.
- Early warning systems: Sensors, detectors, and notification systems.
- Maritime radiocommunications: GMDSS, DSC, NAVTEX. Procedures and frequencies.
- Emergency networks: Operation and communication protocols in critical situations.
- Global positioning systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo. Emergency Use.
- Calculating the range and coverage of radio communications.
- Emergency communications plan: Definition of roles, responsibilities, and channels.
- Drills and practical exercises: Implementation of protocols and systems.
- Post-incident reports and lessons learned: Continuous improvement of protocols.
‘
- Introduction to SAR Operations: Legal and Organizational Framework
- Alert Systems: COSPAS-SARSAT, INMARSAT, VHF DSC
- Maritime Radiocommunications: GMDSS, Frequencies, Procedures
- SAR Radiocommunication Equipment: Portable Radios, EPIRBs, SARTs
- SAR Communication Protocols: Message Formats, Channels
- Phases of a SAR Operation: Alert, Uncertainty, Danger, Search, Rescue
- SAR Search Techniques: Search Patterns, Use of Electronic Aids
- SAR Coordination: Coordination Centers, Roles and Responsibilities
- First Responders
SAR Assistance: Victim stabilization and transfer
Safety in SAR Operations: Risks and preventive measures
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
- Definition and scope of alert, transmission, and response protocols.
- Types of alerts: internal (fires, medical emergencies) and external (weather, security).
- Communication systems: radio, public address systems, telephones, email, mass alert systems.
- Information transmission procedures: channels, formats, recipients, confirmation of receipt.
- Coordination centers and competent authorities: roles and responsibilities.
- Response matrices: threat identification, predefined actions, resource allocation.
- Chain of command and decision-making in crisis situations.
- Drills and training exercises: planning, execution, and evaluation.
- Documentation and event logging: Reports, analysis, monitoring.
- Continuous improvement of protocols: review, updating, dissemination.
‘
- Fundamentals of Radiocommunications: radio spectrum, modulation, propagation.
- Maritime Radiocommunications Equipment: VHF, MF/HF, DSC, Inmarsat, EPIRB, SART, NAVTEX.
- Distress Calling and Message Procedures: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE, formats, priorities.
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): maritime areas, coverage, mandatory equipment.
- Alert Protocols: activation, notification to authorities, communication with rescue centers.
- Sea Search and Rescue (SAR): organization, resources, phases of operation, coordination.
- Survival Techniques at Sea: Abandon ship, life rafts, survival suits.
First Aid in Emergency Situations: treatment of wounds, burns, hypothermia, CPR.
Applicable Legislation and Regulations: international conventions, national regulations, responsibilities.
Emergency Drills and Exercises: planning, execution, evaluation, continuous improvement.
‘
- Introduction to alert protocols: types, levels, and responsibilities.
- Fundamentals of radiocommunications: waves, frequencies, modulation, and propagation.
- Radiocommunications equipment: VHF, HF, MF, DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB, and SART.
- Calling and listening procedures: channel 16, DSC, selective calling.
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): structure and operation.
- Types of signals: optical, acoustic, and pyrotechnic; Its interpretation and use.
- Maritime signaling systems: buoys, beacons, lighthouses, and marks.
- Emergency alerts: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, and SECURITE; content and protocol.
- Emergency response coordination: Rescue Coordination Centers (RCCs).
- Basic equipment and battery maintenance: ensuring operability.
‘
- Introduction to Disasters: Types, Causes, and Consequences
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: Emergency Plans, Current Legislation
- Radiocommunication Equipment: Types, Operation, and Basic Maintenance
- Communication Protocols: Standard Phrases, Message Formats
- Early Warning Systems: Sensors, Detectors, and Monitoring Networks
- Developing Emergency Plans: Risk Identification, Available Resources
- Drills and Response Exercises: Planning, Execution, and Evaluation
- Inter-institutional Coordination: Roles and Responsibilities of Different Actors
- First Aid and Basic Life Support in Emergency Situations
- Emergency Psychology: Stress Management and Support emotional
‘
Career opportunities
- Emergency Call Center Operator: Receiving and managing alerts, coordinating resources.
- Emergency Communications Systems Technician: Installing, maintaining, and repairing equipment.
- Emergency and Evacuation Plan Specialist: Designing, implementing, and evaluating plans.
- Emergency Signaling and Communications Trainer: Instructing in protocols and equipment use.
- Event and Show Security Personnel: Coordinating communication in high-risk situations.
- Crisis Communications Officer: Managing information and media relations.
- Occupational Risk Prevention Technician: Evaluating and improving safety signage.
- Emergency Radio Operator: Liaison between rescue teams and control centers.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ā„ 24ā monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Signal Mastery: Learn to interpret and use visual and audible emergency signals in various critical situations.
- Communication Protocols: Master standard and alternative communication protocols in emergencies, including radio, hand signals, and satellite systems.
- Essential Equipment: Become familiar with the use and maintenance of signaling and communication equipment, such as flares, portable radios, and alert devices.
- Practical Drills: Participate in realistic drills to apply your knowledge and improve your response capabilities in real emergencies.
- Legal Framework: Understand the current regulations and standards regarding emergency signals and communication in your sector.
Testimonials
“Thanks to the Emergency Signals and Communication training, I was able to stay calm and guide my group to safety when we got lost on a hike. Knowing the whistle signals and how to use a signal mirror correctly were crucial for us to be located quickly. This training definitely saved us.”
I successfully completed the Maritime Safety and Survival course, acquiring essential skills in first aid, fire prevention and fighting, sea survival techniques, and rescue vessel operation. I am confident in my ability to respond to maritime emergencies and ensure the safety of crew and passengers.
“Thanks to my training in emergency signals and communication, I was able to remain calm and guide my group to safety during a sudden mountain storm. Using the signaling techniques I learned, we were able to contact rescue teams quickly, which was crucial for our survival.”
I implemented the hand signals I had learned during a power outage at the plant, successfully evacuating my team quickly and safely despite the widespread panic. The clarity of the nonverbal instructions prevented accidents and facilitated control of the situation.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Whistle, signaling mirror and fire.
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 (3ā6 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 University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Disasters: Types, Causes, and Consequences
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: Emergency Plans, Current Legislation
- Radiocommunication Equipment: Types, Operation, and Basic Maintenance
- Communication Protocols: Standard Phrases, Message Formats
- Early Warning Systems: Sensors, Detectors, and Monitoring Networks
- Developing Emergency Plans: Risk Identification, Available Resources
- Drills and Response Exercises: Planning, Execution, and Evaluation
- Inter-institutional Coordination: Roles and Responsibilities of Different Actors
- First Aid and Basic Life Support in Emergency Situations
- Emergency Psychology: Stress Management and Support emotional
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.