MCA Audit Programme

MCA APPROVED DOCTORS AUDIT PROGRAMME AUDIT VISIT SUMMARY New Routine Non routine TOTAL

AUDIT VISIT RESULTS to end Oct No follow-up required Minor non- conformities Major / multiple non-conformities Change in approval status TOTAL

Common shortcomings identified… Admin: Amending mistakes on certificates Seafarers attention not drawn to statements on reverse of ENG1 certificate Poor quality near vision test card ENG2s not fully completed ENG1s completed to comply with company needs not MCA regulations ENG1 certificates not stored in locked cupboards Completed ENG2 forms not held where medicals are performed Medical conditions noted on ENG1 forms Clinical: Checking/servicing of scales Distance not marked for visual acuity No chaperonage for female seafarers Poor lighting for visual acuity and colour vision testing Test unaided vision not done in all cases (contact lenses)

Key points from 2009 audits Although a smaller number of audits have taken place over the last 2 years, the proportion of those needing no follow-up action or with only minor non-conformities is significantly larger. The shortcomings that have been identified are similar to those in the past. However, there have been several examples this year where ENG2s either not being fully completed (negative results, ENG number, reasons for restrictions) Chaperonage policies are not always followed. Sometimes certificates have been issued in accordance with company wishes rather than MCA standards. UK audits – first round complete. Revised arrangements needed for routine reassessments. (Kirsty Wicks study)