MATT Duncan was so affected by watching coverage of the devastating Japanese tsunami that he has now built a survival pod to help others avoid tragedy.

Just days after the tragedy hit Japan he designed, created and tested the pod from the spiral-welded steel he uses in building his company's houseboats,The Gold Coast Bulletin reports.

The Havana Tsunami Survival Pod features crash bar crumple zones to absorb sudden impacts and its streamlined design is aimed at preventing it being snagged or pinned under water.

"It needed huge strength to withstand the crushing impact of the masses of debris that get swept along with the tsunami and this pod will handle in excess of six tonne of weight," he said.

Inside, it can comfortably fit four people in rally-style moulded racing seats strapped in with five-point safety harnesses.

Mr Duncan said the pod was also designed to hold enough air for four people "in panic mode" for two and a half hours.

"If the pod is washed out to sea it has exterior flashing beacon lights to attract the attention of rescuers and lifting hooks for a helicopter rescue," he said.

Mr Duncan said he had received email inquiries about the $8500 pod from around the world.

Read more at The Gold Coast Bulletin.