What does an ENG1 medical include?

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If you’re looking to follow a career at sea, the Maritime and Coastal Agency (MCA) requires every seafarer to have a valid medical certificate known as the ENG1 that states the seafarer is fit to work at sea. So, what does an ENG1 medical include and why is it important?  It is a non-invasive assessment is carried out to prove you don’t have any serious medical conditions which could prevent you from performing your duties on board.

Check with your employer or get in touch with Anchor Health Solutions, if you’re unsure whether you need an ENG1certificate or an ML5 certificate.  

What can I expect?

You’ll be asked to show your ID and complete a set of forms; hence It is crucial to arrive at least 10 minutes before the planned start of the appointment. Our technician will start the screening and pass the information to the approved doctor, who will carry out a physical assessment and upload your details onto the government portal. The doctor will enquire about your medical history, whether you are on medication and if you have any allergies or other health conditions. A physical examination will then take place and the doctor will decide on your fitness for work. If required, the doctor will ask for further medical information from specialists and GPs before making a decision and issuing the ENG1 Certificate.

Other required parts in the ENG1 medical are:

• Urine sample will be required, and used to check several parameters like glucose, kidney and liver function. This is not a drugs test. Feedback is immediate and can be early discovery before health issues become urgent.
• Sight test – your sight will be tested for distance and near vision, and also for colour blindness. Patients should remember to bring prescription glasses for both short and distant vision, if prescribed. If you use contact lenses, please wear your glasses on the day.
• Hearing test – The MCA stipulates that a hearing test is to be conducted every 10 years, but it is usually tested more frequently. Your hearing will be tested using best practice audiometry techniques and specialist equipment. Anchor Health Solutions uses an audio booth to create optimal screening conditions. It’s best to avoid exposure to loud noise for 16 hours before your medical as this may impact hearing test.
• Hight, weight and BMI – It’s worth noting that the MCA sets minimum standards regarding the BMI which is a ratio of height to weight. Further requirements may be needed if the BMI is 35 and above.
• Blood pressure – At certain levels the blood pressure can affect the length of the certificate or if the individuals can be passed as fit to go to sea.
• Heart and lung examination – the doctor will listen to your lungs with the stethoscope.
• Ear and throat check – looking for anything which might impair your ability to work at sea.
• Teeth and gums inspection – Anchor Solutions advises for you to visit your dentist at least once every year.
• Hernia test – check the abdomen area.
• Reflexes test
• Further questions – Questions on your health history, lifestyle habits, including alcohol consumption etc.

What to bring with you to an ENG1 assessment

• Photographic Identification – Clinicians are required to positively identify you to the standard set by the UK Government, the only forms of ID that are accepted are: driving licence, passport or discharge book.
• The ORIGINAL copy of your previous ENG 1 Medical certificate and any recent medical reports and letters, discharge notes if you have any underlying health condition(s).