Frequently Asked questions - Eng1
An ENG1 is a medical examination performed by an approved doctor by the MCA to assess fitness to work on a seagoing vessel. The examination is used to identify any illnesses or conditions that could be exacerbated or caused at sea. The Examination usually lasts for around 30 – 45 minutes.
An ENG1 Medical Examination can only be performed through Doctors approved by the MCA. The MCA regularly publishes an updated list which can be accessed here.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/mca-approved-doctors-uk-based
First and foremost consent is taken to and the process of the examination is explained.
After consent has been taken a payment will be taken before the examination starts. The payment is for the assessment against MCA Criteria and is charged irrespective of the outcome.
ID will then be checked which is a requirement from the MCA, the ENG1 examination cannot be completed without an original form of ID. Suitable forms of ID ideally are a Passport or Seaman Discharge Book. If you are not in possession of either a Driving License will suffice.
We will start by collecting personal information including address, contact number and GP details. The information collected will be held in the strictest confidence under GDPR Guidelines.
We will then enquire into previous ENG1 examination records. We will need to take your old ENG1 examination certificate, a copy or digital scanned image is not acceptable. If you have lost, misplaced or not in possession of your previous ENG1 certificate we will document this accordingly. The old Eng1 is retained by the medical examiner.
A detailed medical history will then be obtained which includes medical history, family medical history, medication history, smoking status and alcohol intake.
A physical examination will then be performed which includes
- Height Weight BMI Calculation
- Vision Test
- Colour Vision Test
- Hearing Test using an Audiometer
- Urine Test to identify protein, blood or Glucose in the urine which may be a sign of an underlying condition.
- Physical Examination of Heart, Lungs, Abdomen, Physical capabilities, teeth, gums, ear, throat, eyes etc.
- A Chaperone is always at hand and will be offered prior to any physical examination.
The Current Fee for an ENG1 examination is £155, this fee includes a 7 panel Drug and Alcohol Screen. The Fee can be paid through Cash, Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay or G Pay.
There are Multiple possible outcomes following on from an ENG1 Examination
Category 1 – Fit with no Restrictions Validity of 2 years
Category 1 – Fit with no restrictions however time limited ie less than 2 years
Category 2 – Fit with restrictions ie UK or near coastal Waters Validity of 2 years or less
Category 3 – Temporarily Unfit or Permanently Unfit
In some instances we may ask you to see your GP to have a medical condition investigated and treated and ask you to return in a specified period. You will be issued a Category 3 Certificate – Temporarily Unfit/Restriction
If you are found permanently unfit for the Eng1 examination the result usually stands for at least 5 years. You will be awarded a Cat 3 Certificate – Permanently Unfit
If you want to have an independent medical review you must contact the MCA Seafarer Health And Safety Branch within one month of the ENG3 Certificate being issued. You can find a list of MCA medical referees here
If you have failed the Colour Screening test you will be able to undertake the Colour Assessment Diagnosis test which measures the severity and type of colour vision loss this costs between £100 and £150.
There is no specific requirement for fasting. It is important to be well hydrated and allow plenty of time to attend the appointment.
Yes, a drug and alcohol screening test is performed as part of the examination.
Yes, you can have your case reexamined by an independent medical referee. Details on this are on the back of each ENG1 Certificate. Please note there will be an additional fee set by the independent medical referee and the decision from the independent medical referee will be final.
- Passport/Seaman Discharge Book or Driving License
- Glasses / Contact Lens Case
- GP Details
- Previous ENG1 if applicable
- Medication
You can make a booking online or alternatively you can call or email us directly.