These standards are for seafarers requiring an STCW certificate of medical fitness. For seafarers who are applying for an AMSA domestic certificate of competency, please use the Standards for the medical assessment of domestic seafarers.

When an applicant presents for a medical:

• Refer to the relevant job task analysis in Annex 1 of these standards.
• Examine the applicant and note any abnormalities on either history or physical examination.
• If any abnormalities are detected, refer to the appropriate section in the standard.
• Complete the medical examination report, certificate of medical fitness and make appropriate follow-up and referral arrangements for applicants found to be temporarily or permanently unfit for duties.