Objectives  In order to more effectively protect the surface ship seamen from the shock injury caused by underwater non-contact explosion,

  Methods  the shock environments and safety limits for seafmen aboard surface ship are analyzed firstly. Then, the design method for human anti-shock flooring is put forward, and a new type of anti-shock elastic floor is designed which has nonlinear mechanical properties with variable stiffness. Finally, the protective effects of the anti-shock elastic flooring is validated and evaluated in the shock table test that simulates the typical medium and severe shock loads.

  Results  The test results indicate that the shock load attenuating rate of anti-shock elastic flooring is over 88%, which could reduce ship shock injury greatly.

  Conclusions  The research can provide effective shock protection for seamen in severe shock environment.