Health & Well-being Indoors

Creating a healthier onboard environment

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The importance of health and well-being in marine interiors

In the marine industry, the on-board environment plays a vital role in the health, comfort and productivity of passengers and crew. Whether on a cruise ship, offshore platform or naval vessel, people spend long periods of time in confined spaces, making it essential to create an indoor environment that prioritises health and well-being. From air quality to acoustic and thermal comfort, every aspect of the indoor environment contributes to an individual's overall experience and well-being.

A healthy on-board environment can reduce fatigue, improve concentration and promote physical health, making it essential for both long and short journeys.

Enhancing acoustic comfort in marine interiors

Acoustic comfort is another essential factor in indoor well-being, particularly in environments where noise levels can vary widely. In the marine industry, noise can originate from engines, waves, onboard equipment, and even foot traffic. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can lead to stress, fatigue, and reduced cognitive function. Effective acoustic solutions help minimise disruptive sounds, creating a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere onboard. 

Saint-Gobain Marine offers a wide range of high-performance insulation and acoustic solutions specifically designed to reduce noise pollution in ship interiors. By absorbing and attenuating noise, our solutions enhance passenger comfort and protect crew members from constant noise exposure, creating a calm and comfortable environment.

Vetrotech's STADIP SILENCE acoustic laminated glass is an outstanding example of our commitment to acoustic comfort. With a special interlayer, the sound is absorbed and the effects of noise and vibration are significantly reduced, resulting in quieter and more enjoyable spaces on board.

For flooring, Weber Marine dB Floor offers high sound insulation performance, effectively combating airborne, impact and structure-borne noise. Suitable for any type of vessel or offshore installation, this solution provides a quieter environment in even the most challenging acoustic environments.

Isover's U SeaProtect range also provides excellent acoustic insulation, achieving sound reduction Rw values of up to 51dB. This makes it an ideal solution for critical areas where noise control is paramount, such as cabins or common areas.

For ceilings and walls, Clipso's SO® ACOUSTIC ceilings combine high-end visual appeal with superior acoustic performance, transforming interiors into quieter, more comfortable environments.

In addition, Kaimann's Kaiflex pipe insulation minimises the noise generated by plumbing systems.
 

Optimising thermal comfort for a balanced indoor climate

Thermal comfort is key to creating a pleasant atmosphere on board, as temperature fluctuations can affect physical and mental well-being. In a marine environment, maintaining an even, comfortable temperature is challenging due to the changing weather conditions and the confined nature of indoor spaces. When thermal comfort is compromised, individuals can experience discomfort, fatigue and loss of concentration.

Saint-Gobain Marine's thermal insulation solutions are designed to optimise thermal performance and reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling. By improving insulation, we help to create stable indoor temperatures that minimise energy consumption and support a sustainable, comfortable environment.

Isover's U SeaProtect range is a key example, offering exceptional thermal insulation over a wide range of temperatures. By improving thermal insulation, U SeaProtect reduces the load on HVAC systems, extending their life, while maintaining consistent indoor comfort.

For innovative window solutions, SageGlass® electronically tinted glass redefines on-board climate control. This advanced glass can be silently tinted or cleared at the touch of a button or automatically, blocking up to 91% of solar heat and eliminating glare - all without the need for blinds or shades. SageGlass® reduces energy requirements for HVAC systems while providing reliable, year-round indoor comfort with uninterrupted views of the outdoors.

Weber Marine Thermofloor, another solution from Saint-Gobain Marine, provides excellent thermal floor insulation, reducing issues caused by moisture, condensation and freezing.

Improving visual comfort for a better indoor experience

Visual comfort is often overlooked, but it plays an important role in the well-being of passengers and crews. Lighting affects mood, energy levels and the overall experience. In marine interiors, optimising visual comfort means balancing natural and artificial light sources to create a welcoming, visually appealing environment.

Saint-Gobain Marine's high performance glass solutions are designed to maximise natural light while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. By letting in light while minimising glare and heat gain, these solutions contribute to the well-being of passengers and crew and enhance the on-board experience.

One example is SageGlass Harmony™, an innovative smart glass solution that dynamically changes tint in response to sunlight. This advanced technology provides unobstructed views of the outside world while enhancing comfort by blocking heat and glare. Its natural, gradual in-pane tint transition ensures protection where it's needed, with up to three levels of glare reduction and daylight transmission within the same pane. This flexibility helps to regulate sunlight, maintain optimum visual comfort and reduce energy requirements for cooling systems.


For exterior applications in colder climates, Vetrotech's THERMOVIT® electrically heated glass provides uninterrupted clear vision in wheelhouses, restaurants and cabins. With heating capacities, this glass remains free of ice and condensation in freezing conditions and prevents fogging in high humidity. This innovative solution not only improves visibility, but also enhances the on-board experience by maintaining a warm and comfortable atmosphere in extreme weather conditions.

By integrating these advanced glass solutions, Saint-Gobain Marine offers a balance of functionality, comfort and sustainability. Whether optimising natural light with dynamic tinting or ensuring clear visibility in harsh climates, our high-performance glass products help create interiors that prioritise wellbeing and visual appeal for everyone on board.

Improving indoor air quality for healthier environments

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is critical to well-being, especially in marine environments where ventilation may be limited and people are exposed to a variety of materials. Poor IAQ can lead to discomfort and health issues, including headaches, respiratory problems and even long-term complications. Improving indoor air quality requires the use of low-emitting materials, effective ventilation and air filtration to reduce pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dust and odours.

Saint-Gobain Marine is committed to improving indoor air quality on board vessels, ensuring a healthier environment for passengers and crew. 

Vetrotech demonstrates this commitment by complying with the REACH declaration, which ensures that all products are free from the harmful substances listed in the REACH regulation. This guarantees that the glass solutions used on board are safe for both people and the environment, reducing potential exposure to toxic chemicals and contributing to overall air quality.

Similarly, Weber supports healthier indoor environments with Indoor Air Comfort Gold certified flooring solutions, the highest standard for low emissions. These flooring systems release minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs), preventing the build-up of pollutants in confined spaces.
 

A healthier marine interiors

Health and Well-being indoors is essential for a positive experience on board. Saint-Gobain Marine is leading the way with solutions that prioritise the health, comfort and well-being of passengers and crews on board.

Discover how Saint-Gobain Marine is making a difference, creating solutions that are Better for People, Better for the Planet, and learn about our other sustainability pillars, including Resources & Circularity, Energy & Carbon and Health & Safety on jobsites. Together, we can navigate a cleaner, more efficient future at sea.