When working at sea, there are always heightened health and safety concerns since medical treatment may not be readily available in an emergency.
Therefore, if you’re planning to work on a yacht, it’s essential to hold a Medical Fitness Certificate.
This proves that you are medically fit to perform your duties at sea and that no serious conditions exist which could put you or others at risk.
Chapters
- What is an ENG 1 Medical Certificate?
- Why Do You Need an ENG 1 Medical Certificate?
- When Should I Book My ENG 1 Medical Exam?
- Where Can I Get an ENG 1 Medical Exam Done?
- How Much Does an ENG 1 Medical Exam Cost?
- What Happens During an ENG 1 Medical Exam?
- Is Drug Screening Part of an ENG 1 Medical Exam?
- Common Reasons Why People Fail ENG 1 Medical Exams
- Conclusion
- Contact Us
What is an ENG 1 Medical Certificate?
Image credit:
Pexels
The ENG 1 Medical Certificate is a mandatory health assessment for anyone intending to work at sea as part of a yacht or ship’s crew. It is regulated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
The purpose of the exam is to confirm that you are physically and mentally fit to work aboard a seagoing vessel. After completing the examination with an MCA-approved doctor, the ENG 1 certificate is issued and remains valid for two years.
An ENG 1 certificate is required for most professional crew roles, except for those working only on small vessels operating within 60 miles of the coast.
Why Do You Need an ENG 1 Medical Certificate?
Image credit:
Shutterstock
The ENG 1 certificate ensures that no medical condition could endanger you or other crew members while at sea. It also meets insurance and flag-state requirements for safe manning.
Every professional seafarer must also complete STCW Basic Safety Training, which can only be undertaken after passing the ENG 1 medical exam.
When Should I Book My ENG 1 Medical Exam?
The ENG 1 exam should be completed as soon as possible before starting work on a yacht or enrolling on your STCW course. This helps confirm your fitness for sea service and identifies any medical conditions that might restrict your duties.
Where Can I Get an ENG 1 Medical Exam Done?
Image credit:
Shutterstock
ENG 1 medical examinations can only be carried out by MCA-approved doctors. A current list is available on the UK government’s website .
How Much Does an ENG 1 Medical Exam Cost?
The typical cost ranges from £80 to £115 in the UK. Fees vary internationally and are set by the individual doctor. If you’re employed in the UK, your employer usually covers the cost.
What Happens During an ENG 1 Medical Exam?
Image credit:
Shutterstock
Bring your passport or photo ID, GP details, any medication list, your previous ENG 1 (if applicable), and glasses or contact lenses if used.
The examination takes about 30 minutes and includes:
- Eye and colour-vision tests
- Hearing test
- Dental and throat inspection
- Height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate measurement
- Heart and lung assessment
- Reflex check
- Hernia test
- Urine sample (for sugar levels and kidney function)
If you pass, the ENG 1 certificate is issued immediately.
Is Drug Screening Part of an ENG 1 Medical Exam?
Drug screening is not a statutory part of the ENG 1 exam, but may be included if your employer requests it or if the doctor suspects substance misuse.
Common Reasons Why People Fail ENG 1 Medical Exams
After assessment, you may be declared:
- Fit with restrictions – limited duties or locations
- Temporarily unfit – requires further medical review
- Permanently unfit – unable to work at sea for at least five years
Common reasons for failing include:
- Severe asthma or allergies
- Heart or lung disease
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- Uncontrolled diabetes requiring insulin
- Hearing loss or colour-vision deficiency
- Substance or alcohol dependence
If you fail, the doctor may request further reports or issue an ENG 3 Notice of Failure or Restriction. You can appeal within one month for an independent review.
Conclusion
The ENG 1 medical certificate is a crucial first step for anyone pursuing a career at sea. It ensures that you’re fit for duty and prepared for the unique challenges of life on board.
Contact Us
If you have questions about a career in yachting or obtaining your ENG 1 certificate, please get in touch with us today or leave a comment below.
Disclaimer: Any advice in this publication is not intended or written by Marine Accounts to be used by a client or entity for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties that may be imposed on any taxpayer or (ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party matters here
