Seafarer Medical in Leicester
Providing Seafarer Medical (ENG1, ML5 & Chester Step Test) to Leicestershire, Nottingham, Coventry, The Midlands and beyond
At The Health Suite Leicester, we provide Seafarer Medicals to ensure that maritime workers are fit and healthy for their duties at sea. These medical assessments are essential for individuals working in the maritime industry, as they must meet specific health and fitness standards to guarantee their safety and the safety of others onboard. Our comprehensive Seafarer Medical includes tests to evaluate vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and overall physical and mental fitness. We also assess conditions that could affect a person’s ability to perform tasks at sea, such as respiratory conditions or sleep disorders. By completing a Seafarer Medical, workers can ensure they meet industry regulations and are ready for the physical demands of their jobs. Our experienced healthcare professionals at The Health Suite Leicester provide clear guidance, support, and certification, helping seafarers stay safe, healthy, and compliant with maritime health requirements.
The Seafarer Medical (ENG1, ML5 & Chester Step Test) Certificate is mandatory for most seafarers (those working at sea), especially those working on larger vessels. It certifies that you are medically fit to perform your duties at sea, where access to medical care can be restricted or delayed. The Seafarer Medical, also known as the ENG1 medical examination, is a health check for seafarers. It makes sure they meet the health standards required for maritime jobs. This examination is done by specially approved doctors and checks many health areas, like eyesight, hearing, heart health, and overall physical condition. It’s meant to ensure that people are fit for ship duties, where quick medical help might not be available, and the work can be very demanding. Based on the occupational health examination results, seafarers get a medical certificate that lasts up to two years. This certificate is important for sea safety, as it helps avoid medical problems that could endanger both the individual and the crew.
Our Occupational Health doctors are HSE-registered
Book Seafarer Medical (ENG1, ML5 & Chester Step Test)
*If your BMI is over 30 or between 30 and 35 and not solely due to a muscular physique (e.g., broad shoulders and defined muscles), you will need to take the Chester Step Test with ENG1.
Calculate your BMI using this BMI Calculator before booking your ENG1 appointment.
Overview of Seafarer Medical (ENG1 / ML5) Certificates
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) issues two types of medical certificates for seafarers:
- ENG1 Medical Certificate: Valid for 2 years and required for most seafaring roles, especially on vessels operating more than 60 miles from shore.
- ML5 Medical Certificate: Valid for 5 years, suitable for those working on smaller vessels that operate within 60 miles of the coast.
Obtaining an ENG1 Medical Certificate
The ENG1 Medical examination typically lasts about 45 minutes. During the examination, the following assessments are conducted:
- Measurement of height, weight, and blood pressure
- Vision and hearing tests
- Lung and heart function assessments
- Urine sample analysis to check for diabetes
- Review of medical history
Chester Step Test
The Chester Step Test takes 30 minutes and costs an additional £90, which will be added to your ENG1 medical booking. Equipment such as the exercise step and pulse monitor will be provided.
Medical Conditions and ENG1 Certification
Certain medical conditions may result in a restricted or denied ENG1 Medical Certificate. These conditions include:
- Epilepsy
- Severe asthma or allergies
- Heart conditions or a history of stroke
- Lung diseases
- Severe hearing loss
- Insulin-dependent diabetes
- Substance abuse issues
- Colour blindness
Colour Vision and the ENG1 Medical
Colour blindness is a common reason for restrictions on the ENG1 certificate. The standard Ishihara test is used to assess colour vision. If you fail this test, a restriction may be placed on your certificate.
Why choose The Health Suite for Seafarer Medical?
Expert Trained Doctors
MCA-approved clinicians who can complete your ENG1 medical certificate.
Rapid Turnaround
Certificates can be issued at the end of consultations once all satisfactory checks are completed.
Easy to Access
Conveniently located clinic with free parking and good connections to both road and bus networks.
Seafarer & Offshore Medicals Explained by Occupational Health Doctor | The Health Suite Leicester
Common Q&A about Seafarer Medical
Our FAQ section is designed to address common questions you may have, from how our treatments work to what you can expect during and after your session.
Our team is always available to provide additional support if you need more personalised guidance, ensuring that you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
Symptom checker
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please book an appointment with us. Symptoms can vary from person to person and from condition to condition.A proper diagnosis can only be made through a thorough medical examination.
Our clinicians will carry out a full assessment to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
Do you need an ENG1 or ML5 medical certificate to work at sea?
Most maritime roles require certification confirming fitness for duty. A seafarer medical ensures you meet industry health standards and are safe to work in environments where access to medical care may be limited.
Are you preparing to start or renew employment on a vessel or offshore role?
Seafarers must undergo periodic medicals to maintain certification. This assessment ensures ongoing fitness for physically demanding roles and compliance with maritime regulations before boarding a vessel.
Do you have a medical condition that could affect your ability to work at sea?
Conditions such as heart disease, asthma or neurological issues may impact safety onboard. A structured medical evaluates risk and determines whether restrictions or further assessment are needed.
Are you experiencing breathlessness, fatigue or reduced physical stamina?
Life at sea often involves physically demanding tasks and limited medical support. Symptoms affecting endurance or respiratory function require assessment to ensure you can safely meet job demands.
Do you have concerns about your vision, hearing or overall fitness?
Clear vision, hearing and physical capability are essential for safe maritime work. A seafarer medical includes testing of these areas to confirm you meet operational safety standards.
Has your employer or maritime authority requested a certified medical assessment?
Regulatory bodies require certified medical examinations for seafarers. This ensures compliance, safety onboard, and that all crew members are medically fit for duty in remote environments.
What we treat
At The Health Suite Leicester, our private medical clinic offers expert care whenever you need it. Our team of experienced GPs and healthcare professionals provide personalised diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions, ensuring high-quality, professional care in a comfortable setting.
Click below to view useful info on a few of the common conditions we treat:
ENG1 & ML5 Seafarer Medical Certification
This service provides official maritime medical certificates (ENG1 or ML5), confirming you are fit to work at sea. Certification is essential for compliance with Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) regulations and is typically valid for up to two years.
Comprehensive Physical Health Assessment
The medical includes checks of height, weight, blood pressure, cardiovascular health and general physical condition. These assessments ensure you can safely perform demanding tasks in isolated and physically challenging environments.
Vision & Hearing Testing
Clear vision and hearing are critical for safety at sea. The assessment includes visual acuity, colour vision testing (e.g. Ishihara test), and hearing checks to ensure you meet required maritime standards.
Respiratory & Cardiovascular Evaluation
Lung and heart function are assessed to identify conditions that may affect endurance or safety in remote settings. This is especially important where emergency medical access is limited during voyages.
Chester Step Test (Fitness Assessment)
For individuals with higher BMI or specific requirements, an aerobic fitness test (Chester Step Test) may be included. This evaluates cardiovascular fitness and physical capacity for demanding maritime roles.
many more
Our clinicians manage a broad spectrum of conditions, and individual assessment allows us to tailor care beyond the examples listed. We encourage you to book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and appropriate treatment options.
Meet our Seafarer Medical Clinicians
Meet our dedicated team at The Health Suite Leicester, where skilled professionals are committed to providing exceptional care tailored to your medical and wellness needs.
Dr Bhavik Patel
Treatment options and pricing
Browse and click below to book any of our available services.
Seafarer Medical (ENG1 / ML5) (For BMI below 30)
A Seafarer Medical examines the health of maritime workers, ensuring they meet fitness standards for working at sea, covering physical, mental, and vision health.
Seafarer Medical (ENG1 + Chester Step Test) (For BMI over 30)
A Seafarer Medical examines the health of maritime workers, ensuring they meet fitness standards for working at sea, covering physical, mental, and vision health.
Have a query about Seafarer Medical at The Health Suite Leicester?
We recognise that getting the healthcare assistance you need can be difficult. So if you have a query, feel free to contact us and one of our treatment co-ordinators will be happy to help. We aim to reply to all queries within 24 hours (Mon – Fri).