An ENG1 Medical is the statutory seafarer medical examination used to assess whether a person is medically fit to work at sea.
It must be carried out by a doctor approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). The ENG1 system is designed to ensure that seafarers are fit to perform their normal duties and respond safely in emergencies, including in circumstances where medical care may be remote or delayed.
Who needs an ENG1 Medical?
An ENG1, or an accepted equivalent seafarer medical certificate, is required for many people working at sea.
This includes:
- seafarers working on merchant ships;
- masters and officers;
- crew working on yachts and other commercial vessels where ENG1 certification applies; and
- some fishermen, depending on vessel size, voyage duration and operating area.
The exact requirement depends on the vessel and type of work. Some workers on smaller or more locally operated vessels may require an ML5 instead.
For more information, see our ENG1 vs ML5 guide.
What does an ENG1 Medical involve?
The ENG1 assessment follows MCA medical fitness standards and includes a review of your medical history together with a physical examination.
During the examination you can expect to be:
- asked about your medical history and medication;
- weighed and measured;
- asked to provide a urine sample;
- assessed for hearing;
- tested for distance, near and colour vision; and
- examined by the doctor.
The assessment is not simply a general health check. The doctor must consider whether any medical condition could affect your ability to work safely at sea, perform emergency duties or remain well where access to medical care may be limited.
What medical conditions can affect an ENG1?
Many medical conditions are compatible with seafaring, but some require additional information, investigation or restrictions before an ENG1 can be issued.
Examples include conditions affecting:
- the heart or circulation;
- breathing;
- diabetes;
- epilepsy or unexplained loss of consciousness;
- neurological health;
- hearing;
- vision or colour vision;
- mobility and stamina;
- mental health;
- alcohol or drug dependence; and
- medication that may affect alertness or performance.
Having a medical condition does not automatically mean that you will fail an ENG1. The outcome depends on the condition, its stability, treatment, risk of sudden incapacity and the duties you perform at sea.
Will I need a Chester Step Test?
Some seafarers may require an additional functional fitness assessment, such as a Chester Step Test, where physical fitness needs to be demonstrated.
This is particularly relevant where body mass index is significantly elevated or where the MCA fitness standard requires additional evidence of exercise capacity.
Where required, Marina Medicals can complete the ENG1 Medical and Chester Step Test during the same visit.
For more information, see our Chester Step Test guide.
How long is an ENG1 certificate valid for?
For seafarers aged 18 or over, an ENG1 certificate can normally be valid for up to two years.
For seafarers under 18, the maximum validity is normally one year.
A shorter certificate may be issued where closer medical review is appropriate.
What are the possible ENG1 outcomes?
Following the examination, the MCA Approved Doctor may certify you as:
- fit without restrictions;
- fit with restrictions;
- temporarily unfit; or
- permanently unfit.
Restrictions may relate to the type of work, duties undertaken or area of operation.
If additional medical information is required, the doctor may need to defer the final decision until relevant reports or test results have been reviewed.
What happens if I do not meet the ENG1 standard?
If you are assessed as unfit or your certificate is restricted, you may be issued with an ENG3 notice of failure or restriction.
The ENG3 explains your right to request an independent medical review by an MCA medical referee. The request normally has to be made within one month of the ENG3 being issued.
What should I bring to an ENG1 Medical?
Bring:
- current & original valid photo identification (Passport / Driver’s Licence / Seaman’s Discharge Book)
- your previous ENG1 or equivalent certificate, if you have one;
- details of any medication you take;
- your glasses or contact lenses, if applicable;
- your GP’s contact details; and
- relevant hospital, consultant or GP reports if you have an existing or recently investigated medical condition.
Providing relevant medical information in advance can help avoid unnecessary delays in certification.
ENG1 Medicals at Marina Medicals Cardiff
Marina Medicals provides ENG1 Medicals in Cardiff for seafarers, yacht crew, merchant seafarers and other workers requiring MCA seafarer medical certification.
Where additional assessment is required, this can often be arranged during the same visit, including:
- Chester Step Test;
- audiometry;
- spirometry; and
- employer-requested Drug & Alcohol testing.
For current fees, preparation requirements and appointment availability, visit our ENG1 Medical Cardiff service page.
