Diploma in Ergonomics and Onboard Comfort
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Ergonomics and Comfort on Board
Provides the tools and knowledge necessary to optimize the design and habitability of maritime spaces, improving the safety, health, and performance of the crew. You will learn to assess and mitigate ergonomic risks, implement innovative solutions for comfort, and comply with applicable international regulations. This program will enable you to create work and rest environments that promote well-being and efficiency at sea.
Differential Advantages
- Practical Approach: analysis of real-world cases and simulations of maritime environments.
- Ergonomic Assessment Methodologies: tools to identify and quantify risks on board.
- User-Centered Design: ergonomic principles applied to the design of cabins, bridges, and work areas.
- Regulations and Standards: comprehensive knowledge of IMO and ILO regulations on habitability and comfort.
- Performance Optimization: strategies to reduce fatigue, improve communication, and increase productivity.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 19-06-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Naval designers and architects seeking to integrate advanced ergonomic principles and optimize comfort in vessel design.
- Occupational health and safety (OHS) engineers who need to assess and improve working conditions on board, minimizing risks and maximizing crew well-being.
- Shipping companies and cruise operators wishing to optimize the efficiency and satisfaction of their staff through ergonomic and comfortable workspaces.
- Manufacturers of marine equipment and furnishings interested in developing innovative products that meet the highest standards of ergonomics and onboard comfort.
- Maritime professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of the latest Trends in ergonomics and their application in the naval environment.
Study flexibility
Adapted for active professionals: flexible online format, 24/7 access to materials, and personalized tutoring to answer questions and progress at your own pace.
Objectives and competencies
Evaluate and optimize maritime workspaces:
“Implement ergonomics and safety procedures, considering human factors and environmental conditions to maximize efficiency and minimize risks.”
Implement and monitor ergonomic risk prevention programs:
“Identify, assess and control ergonomic risks in workplaces, training staff and adapting the work environment according to current regulations.”
Design and adapt furniture to improve posture and reduce fatigue:
“Using principles of ergonomics and anthropometry to create customized furniture solutions and assess their impact on health and productivity.”
Applying ergonomic standards and regulations in naval interior design:
“Considering specific anthropometry, naval environmental factors, and minimizing biomechanical risks to the crew.”
Select materials and finishes that promote sensory and thermal well-being:
“Prioritize natural, breathable materials with low thermal conductivity, considering the thermal inertia and solar reflectance of the finishes.”
Integrate lighting solutions that minimize glare and improve visibility:
“Select luminaires with appropriate light distribution and adjust the intensity according to environmental conditions and visual task, considering comfort and energy efficiency.”
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 Anthropometry and Biomechanics in Naval Design.
- Naval Anthropometry: Human dimensions relevant to the design of onboard spaces and equipment.
- Naval Biomechanics: Analysis of movements and forces in the maritime environment.
- Onboard Workstation Design: Ergonomics and Comfort.
- Accessibility: Inclusive design for people with reduced mobility.
- Safety Equipment: Design and placement for ease of use in emergencies.
- Simulation and Modeling: Tools for evaluating human performance in naval design.
- Regulations and Standards: Anthropometric and biomechanical requirements in the naval industry.
- Case Studies: Examples of the application of anthropometry and biomechanics.
- Future trends: innovation in anthropometric and biomechanical naval design.
Biomechanics in naval design.
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- Introduction to Ship Interior Design: Specifics and Regulations
- Ergonomics and Anthropometry: Human Dimensions, Workspaces, and Circulation
- Lighting: Types of Light, Lighting Levels, Visual Comfort, and Safety
- Color and Materials: Color Psychology, Textures, Acoustic and Thermal Properties
- Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality: Systems, Filtration, and Humidity Control
- Furniture and Equipment: Selection, Layout, Anchoring, and Safety
- Acoustics: Noise Control, Insulation, and Absorbent Materials
- Accessibility: Design for People with Reduced Mobility and IMO Regulations
- Fire Safety: Fire-Retardant Materials and Evacuation Routes Signage
- User-centered design: well-being, comfort, and productivity
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- Introduction to Naval Interior Design: History and Evolution.
- Naval Ergonomics: Fundamental principles and their application in confined spaces.
- Naval Anthropometry: Human dimensions and considerations for naval design.
- Environmental Psychology in Naval Environments: Impact of design on well-being and performance.
- Naval Lighting: Types of lighting, requirements, and effects on perception.
- Color and Texture in Naval Interiors: Color theory, application, and psychological effects.
- Materials and Finishes: Selection, properties, regulations, and sustainability in marine environments.
- Naval Acoustics: Noise control, insulation, and acoustic comfort in interior spaces.
- Ventilation and Air Quality
Interior: Systems, regulations, and design for onboard health.
Universal Design and Accessibility in Ships: Adapting spaces for people with reduced mobility.
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- Introduction to Interior Design: History, styles, and current trends.
- Ergonomics: Fundamental principles and their application in space design.
- Anthropometry and Human Dimensions: Measurements, proportions, and user needs.
- Environmental Psychology: Perception, cognition, and behavior in the built environment.
- Lighting: Types of light, psychological effects, and efficient lighting design.
- Color: Color theory, color psychology, and its application in interior spaces.
- Materials and Textures: Sensory impact, sustainability, and appropriate selection.
- Acoustics: Noise control, acoustic comfort, and design solutions.
- Universal Design and Accessibility: Regulations, adaptability, and inclusive spaces.
- Well-being and health in design: Air quality, biophilia, and healthy spaces.
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- 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 → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Anthropometry: Definitions, History, and Naval Applications
- Fundamentals of Biomechanics: Movement, Forces, and Moments in the Naval Environment
- Anthropometric Measurements: Techniques, Tools, and Standardization in Naval Design
- Ergonomics in Naval Design: Optimizing Spaces and Tasks for the Crew
- Naval Occupational Biomechanics: Analysis of Postures and Movements in Onboard Work
- Workstation Design: Adapting to Human Dimensions and Capacities
- Anthropometry and Equipment Design: Human-Machine Interface in Naval Systems
- Biomechanical Modeling: Simulation and Analysis of Human Performance in Naval Conditions
- Ergonomic Assessment: Methods and Tools for Identifying Risks and improve the design.
- Legislation and regulations: Maritime occupational health and safety standards.
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Career opportunities
- Vehicle Interior Designer: Optimizing space and comfort in the cabins of ships, trains, airplanes, and buses.
- Ergonomics Consultant for the Transportation Industry: Evaluating and improving working conditions in different modes of transport.
- Researcher at Technology Centers and Universities: Developing new materials and technologies for onboard comfort.
- Occupational Health and Safety Manager in Transportation Companies: Implementing preventative measures to avoid workplace risks related to ergonomics.
- Occupational Risk Prevention Technician: Specializing in ergonomics and comfort in the transportation sector.
- Vehicle Furniture and Equipment Designer: Creating seats, tables, and other elements that maximize passenger comfort.
- Public Transport Accessibility Assessor: Ensure that vehicles and stations are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Quality Manager in Transport Companies: Ensure that vehicles meet comfort and safety standards.
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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.
Documentation:
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, ≥ 24” 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
- Ergonomic Design: Learn to optimize spaces and equipment for maximum well-being and productivity of the crew.
- Acoustic and Lighting Comfort: Master the techniques to create quiet, properly lit environments that promote rest.
- Regulations and Safety: Stay up-to-date on international regulations and best practices in onboard ergonomics to ensure safety.
- Case Studies: Apply the knowledge acquired to the analysis and solution of real-world problems on various types of vessels.
- Health and Well-being: It contributes to the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses, improving the crew’s quality of life and reducing absenteeism. Boost performance and health in the maritime environment with this specialized diploma.
Testimonials
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I gained practical and theoretical knowledge that allowed me to implement significant ergonomic improvements in my company, reducing employee fatigue and discomfort, increasing productivity, and decreasing sick leave related to postural problems. The training I received on onboard comfort, in particular, has helped me design safer and more comfortable workstations, resulting in a more positive and efficient work environment.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired practical skills in design and restoration, from selecting materials suitable for the marine environment to applying advanced joinery and upholstery techniques. The hands-on projects allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge and develop a portfolio that helped me secure a position at a prestigious shipyard. The combination of theory, practice, and the expertise of the instructors was key to my success.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I gained practical and up-to-date knowledge of ergonomics and onboard comfort, which I immediately applied to my work, optimizing space design and significantly improving the passenger experience and well-being. The training provided me with the tools to analyze, evaluate, and implement effective ergonomic solutions, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and a reduction in comfort-related complaints.
This diploma program provided me with the necessary tools to significantly improve comfort and ergonomics in my company. I implemented a new workstation design that reduced musculoskeletal injuries by 30% and increased productivity by 15% in just six months.
Frequently asked questions
It seeks to improve the safety, health and well-being of people in transport environments, such as airplanes, ships or trains, by designing and adapting spaces and elements for optimal interaction between the user and their 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.
Yes, this diploma focuses on ergonomics and comfort specifically in the transportation environment, including airplanes, ships and other vehicles.
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 University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Anthropometry: Definition, History, and Applications
- Basic Anthropometric Measurements: Height, Weight, Circumferences, Skinfold Thicknesses
- Physical Ergonomics: Workstation Design, Tools, and Equipment
- Distributions of Anthropometric Data: Percentiles, Standard Deviations, and Variability
- Biomechanics: Analysis of Motion, Forces, and Moments
- Human Factors in Interface Design: Usability and Accessibility
- Models of Human Capacity: Information Processing, Attention, and Memory
- Design for Special Populations: Children, the Elderly, People with Disabilities
- Cognitive Ergonomics: Mental Workload, Stress, and Decision-Making
- Ergonomic Assessment: Methods and Tools for risk identification
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Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
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.