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Seaplify March 22, 2026

What is the ENG1 Medical Certificate?

The ENG1 is a seafarer medical fitness certificate issued under the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Regulations 2002. It certifies that a seafarer is medically fit to work at sea, in compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 and STCW requirements.

Without a valid ENG1, no seafarer can legally be employed on a UK-flagged vessel or join a vessel as a UK national under MCA authority.

“The ENG1 isn’t about being in perfect health,” explains an Approved Medical Examiner. “It’s about being fit enough to do your job safely and not putting others at risk at sea.”

Who Needs an ENG1?

The ENG1 is required for:

• All UK seafarers on internationally trading vessels
• Seafarers joining UK-flagged vessels regardless of nationality
• Cadets and trainees joining seagoing vessels
• Anyone required to hold a UK Certificate of Competency (CoC)

Some roles, such as those on vessels operating within sheltered waters, may qualify for the ML5 certificate, a lighter-touch medical assessment. But ENG1 remains the standard for ocean-going work.

What Does the ENG1 Assessment Cover?

the ENG1 examination is carried out by an MCA-Approved Medical Examiner (AME) and covers the following areas:

Vision

• Corrected and uncorrected visual acuity
• Colour vision, essential for deck officers
• Night vision and peripheral vision

Note: Colour vision deficiency is a common reason for ENG1 restrictions, particularly for deck officers. Engine department candidates have more lenient colour vision standards.

Hearing

• Pure tone audiometry or whisper test
• Ability to hold a conversation in normal conditions

Cardiovascular

• Blood pressure and pulse
• Resting ECG for candidates over 40 or with risk factors
• History of heart conditions, arrhythmias, or chest pain

Respiratory

• Lung function tests (spirometry)
• History of asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions

Mental Health

• Screening for conditions that may impair decision-making or watchkeeping
• History of depression, anxiety, or psychiatric treatment

General Health

• Diabetes, controlled Type 2 diabetes is often acceptable; insulin-dependent cases require further review
• Epilepsy, generally disqualifying for watchkeeping roles
• Musculoskeletal fitness, ability to climb ladders, work at height, and wear safety equipment
• Substance use history

How Long Is the ENG1 Valid?

However, it is the seafarer’s responsibility to ensure their ENG1 does not expire while serving at sea. Renew well in advance of the expiry date.

How to Get an ENG1 Medical

1. Find an MCA-Approved Medical Examiner, Only AMEs can issue valid ENG1 certificates. The full list is available on the MCA website.
2. Book an appointment, Appointments typically last 30–60 minutes.
3. Bring required documentation, Passport or ID, glasses or contact lenses if worn, and a list of current medications.
4. Complete the examination, The AME will assess all areas detailed above.
5. Receive your ENG1, If fit, the AME issues the certificate on the same day.

Cost varies by AME but typically ranges from £80–£180 in the UK.

Common Reasons for ENG1 Failure or Restriction

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure, Often addressable with medication and a repeat assessment
• Colour blindness (for deck officers), May result in a restricted ENG1 limiting watchkeeping duties
• Poorly controlled diabetes, Requires specialist review before a decision is made
• Vision below minimum standards, Correctable with glasses or lenses in most cases
• Recent surgery or serious illness, May require a temporary restriction until recovery is confirmed
• Mental health conditions, Assessed case by case; not automatically disqualifying

ENG1 Restrictions vs Refusals

In addition, a restricted ENG1 limits the type of work or vessel a seafarer can undertake, for example, restricting someone to near-coastal trade or non-watchkeeping roles. A refusal means the candidate is not medically fit for sea service at that time.

Both outcomes can be appealed through the MCA’s formal appeals process.

How to Prepare for Your ENG1 Medical Certificate Exam

• Know your vision correction, Bring your glasses or lenses and an up-to-date prescription if possible.
• Manage blood pressure, Avoid caffeine and strenuous exercise immediately before the exam.
• Disclose medications honestly, Undisclosed conditions that later cause an incident at sea carry serious legal consequences.
• Schedule in advance, Don’t leave renewal until the last minute. Allow time for a repeat appointment if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

For official maritime standards and further information, visit the International Maritime Organization (IMO).