ENG1 Medical
Medicals
About the Medical
MCA ENG1 Seafarer Medical
What is a MCA ENG1 Seafarer Medical and why is it important?
An ENG1 is a mandatory seafarer medical examination required to confirm you are fit to work in the maritime industry. It protects both your safety and the safety of others onboard.
The assessment ensures you are physically and mentally capable of handling the demands of life at sea. Without a valid ENG1 certificate, you are not legally permitted to work on vessels offshore or in UK waters.
Book your ENG1
We provide prompt, professional ENG1 medical examinations in Plymouth, carried out efficiently so you can return to work without delay.
Book your ENG1 appointment now. Or call 01752 289317 to speak to us directly.
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On arrival, you will be asked to provide a urine sample (this is not a drugs test).
One of our professional and friendly nurses will then carry out:
Height and weight measurements
Blood pressure check
Hearing assessment
Vision testing
You will then see the doctor for a full medical consultation and physical examination.
In some cases, additional tests may be required. These can include:
Chester Step Test (exercise assessment)
ECG (heart tracing)
Spirometry (lung function testing)
Occasionally, more specialised investigations or further information from your GP or medical specialist may be necessary to complete the assessment.
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To ensure your appointment runs smoothly, please bring or prepare the following:
Photo ID – Passport, driving licence, discharge book, or National Citizen ID card.
(The MCA no longer accepts any other forms of identification for ENG1 examinations.)Your previous ENG1 certificate (if applicable).
Glasses - if you wear contact lenses please wear your glasses on the day of the examination.
Avoid loud noise for 16 hours before your appointment, as this can affect your hearing test.
Details of any medication, medical conditions, or hospital admissions since your last medical.
Comfortable clothing suitable for light exercise, as a Chester Step Test may be required.
Dental certificate (if requested) – it is advisable to attend routine dental check-ups at least annually.
Our ENG1 Doctor
Dr Penny is an MCA Approved Doctor with vast experience in maritime medicine. She has worked extensively in the industry, including medical support onboard research vessels.
We offer both ENG1 and ML5 appointments Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday each week meaning that we can see you quickly for your medical, often at short notice. Please get in touch to see if we can help.
Common Questions-
Yes! We offer combined medicals, at a lower price than two separate medicals.
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ENG1 medicals can last up to 2 years, regardless of age. Occasionally a shorter medical may be issued for medical reasons.
ML5 medicals can last a maximum of 5 years, up until age 65 years when the maximum is one year at a time. If an issue is identified during an ML5 medical, it will need to be sent onto the Maritime and Coastguard Agency for further review.
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If you work at sea, it's important to know whether you need an ML5 or ENG1 medical. We offer both, and can swap your appointment on the day if Here's a quick comparison:
ML5 Medical: Designed for those on smaller vessels working closer to shore or for inshore waterways . This medical can last up to 5 years.
ENG1 Medical: For those working on larger commercial vessels or offshore. It’s more comprehensive to ensure you're fit for physically demanding environments. Maximum length 2 years.
Best check with your employer what they require. Further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/seafarer-medical-certificates
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BMI does not give an indication of fitness, so sometimes if your BMI is raised (30+) we might be required to do a Chester Step test during your medical - in accordance with the MCA guidelines. If required, there will be an additional charge of £30 for this service.