Safety at sea starts long before you set sail. If you are currently, or soon to be, employed in any capacity on a ship then you will already know that it in fact begins with an ENG1 medical certificate.  

This important seafarers medical certifies that you are physically fit enough for duty, and without it you cannot work at sea. So, protect yourself and your fellow crew members today by booking yourself in for an initial or renewal seafarers medical.  

Why Do I Need An ENG1 Medical Certificate?  

Every ship that sails is equipped with its own safety protocols to avoid accidents and save lives, but the real foundation of maritime safety starts with the crew. Any vessel is only as secure as the people working on it, and personal health directly impacts a crew members’ ability to carry out their duties and perform under pressure.  

The ENG1 certificate exists to maintain these standards of fitness and overall health and to make sure that every seafarer is fit for the physically demanding life at sea. This does not focus upon infection control and instead checks that you don’t have any health issues or conditions that could incapacitate you or prevent you from carrying out your duties. This protects not just each individual crew member, but also the crew as a whole, as well as any passengers.  

So, now that we know how important this examination is, let’s take a look at what to expect when attending your seafarers medical.  

What Does This Medical Include?  

The ENG1 medical exam consists of a range of health checks based on international guidelines, so there are quite a few stages to the medical to cover all these bases.  

• First, you’ll need to start off by answering some questions about your medical history. 

• Next, you’ll need to be weighed and measured. Please note that if your BMI >30.0 you will require a separate Chester Step exercise performance assessment.  

• You’ll then have your vision and hearing tested.  

• You’ll be asked to provide a urine sample.  

• And finally, you’ll be asked to undress down to your underclothes before the physical examination.  

The contents of the physical examination may differ depending upon the medical centre that you visit, but some of the most important conditions that you will be checked for include any issues with the heart or lungs, any unexplained loss of consciousness, and any type of diabetes.  

You will also be asked about any alcohol or drug addiction problems and whether you are receiving treatment for any mental or nervous problems, so please come prepared to discuss these topics with your doctor.   

What Do I Need To Prepare?  

There are several important documents that you will need to bring with you to the medical and you will be reminded of these in advance of your appointment by the medical centre that you book with.  

These include:  

• Your current ENG1 medical certificate if you have received one before 

• A current and valid photo ID – this includes your passport, drivers licence, or seafarers book.  

• Any glasses or contact lenses you currently use 

• Details of any medical conditions and any medication that you’re currently taking 

Finally, the best preparation that you can do is to prepare to be as honest as possible with your examiner. So, if you have recently been diagnosed with a new condition, please make your medical examiner aware of these changes in your circumstances as they may result in you being certified as ‘fit with restrictions’.  

Where Can I Get An ENG1 Medical Certificate?  

An ENG1 certificate must be issued by an MCA-approved examiner, so if you are based in London Heathrow Medical is your closest provider of MCA-approved seafarers medicals – available to book here.