ML5 Medicals
MCA and IMO compliant medical assessments for seafarers, crew members and commercial vessel staff working in UK waters.
Insight Workplace Health provides ML5 Medical Certificates for individuals working across a range of domestic and small commercial vessels.
Our Occupational Health Physicians are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and carry out thorough, face-to-face assessments to ensure individuals meet the required medical standards set by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
What is a ML5 Medical?
An ML5 medical assessment confirms that an individual is medically fit to safely carry out their duties at sea, including both routine tasks and emergency situations.
It is a legal requirement for certain maritime roles and ensures compliance with MCA and IMO medical standards.
Following a successful assessment, a completed ML5 certificate (as outlined in the official ML5 documentation) will confirm that the individual is medically fit to:
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Hold a Boatmaster Licence (BML)
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Obtain an RYA commercial endorsement
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Work on vessels listed within the ML5 criteria
Certificates are valid for up to 5 years, or require annual renewal from the age of 65.
Who needs an ML5?
An ML5 certificate is required for individuals working in roles such as:
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Masters of passenger vessels that do not go to sea (Class IV or V)
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Masters of commercial vessels that do not go to sea
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Masters or crew of small commercial vessels (Category 2 to 6, up to 60 miles from a safe haven)
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Crew or onboard staff on domestic passenger vessels (Class VI or VIA)
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Crew working on fishing vessels under 24 metres
What's included in an ML5 Medical?
Health Assessment & Medical History
Detailed medical questionnaire covering physical and mental health
Review of medical conditions and current medication
Screening & Measurements
Height & Weight
Blood pressure
Physical Examination
General physical assessment (where required)
Additional tests may be undertaken depending on medical history
Vision & Hearing Tests
Distance vision
Colour vision assessment
What to Bring to an ML5 Medical
Details of any previous ENG1 failures or restrictions
Medication list
Current ENG1 (if renewing)
Valid photo ID (passport, driving licence, seaman’s card)
Glasses/contact lenses
GP or consultant reports (if relevant)
Who Carries Out the ENG 1 Medical?
Your assessment will be carried out by one of our experienced Occupational Health Physicians, all of whom are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and trained in maritime medical assessments.
After your Medical
You will receive a completed ML5 certificate confirming your medical fitness to work at sea.
Insight Workplace Health retains a copy of the certificate, which is stored securely in line with GDPR requirements.
Our other medical assessment services
Client Testimonials
From fast turnaround times to bespoke support, businesses across a variety of industries consistently benefit from our comprehensive occupational health services. Have a look at our client testimonials to find out more.