HSE Divers Medical (MA2 Certificate)
The HSE Divers Medical is a mandatory examination ensuring divers are medically fit to dive in UK waters, as regulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This certification, known as the MA2 Certificate, is essential for all commercial divers and is recognised globally as a standard for diving-related fitness. The initial medical provides a baseline of health, which is used for comparison during subsequent examinations. This assessment can only be conducted by an Approved Medical Examiner of Divers (AMED), ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.
Further Information
This examination is required for anyone working as a professional diver in UK waters, including:
- Commercial divers
- Recreational diving instructors
- Divemasters
- Rescue divers
- Scientific divers
- Media divers
- Police and military divers
Our HSE-appointed physician and team of nurses will conduct medical checks following HSE guidelines, including:
- Health Assessment: Review of diving history, medical history, height, weight, blood pressure, and physical examination
- Vision Check: Assessment of eyesight (with and without glasses) and colour vision
- Hearing Test: Evaluation of hearing ability
- Urine Analysis: Screening for glucose, blood, and protein to detect diabetes and kidney issues
- Medication Review: Listing any current medications on the medical form
- Fitness Test: Chester Step Test to measure VO2 max (avoid alcohol and caffeine 24 hours before the test for accurate results)
We prioritise accuracy, efficiency, and a stress-free experience to ensure compliance and peace of mind.
The appointment takes approximately 45 minutes.
- A qualified Occupational Health Technician or Registered Occupational Health Nurse will conduct the examination.
- A certified HSE-approved AMED Occupational Health Physician will interpret the results.
- The certificate is valid for 1 year.
- After the assessment, you will receive your MA2 Certificate and a summary of your results.
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
- Eyewear and contact lens solution (if applicable)
- Hearing aids (if applicable)
- A list of current medications
- Medical records related to any existing conditions
- Signed GP form or previous in-date MA2 Certificate
- Diving logbook and evidence of diving qualifications
Comfortable clothes, activewear, and trainers are recommended
AMEDs must hold a valid ‘Certificate of Approval’ issued by the HSE and adhere to the standards set by the Diving at Work Regulations 1997.
I’ve been coming to Pathways Occupational Health in Middlesbrough for the past 2 years and I wouldn’t go anywhere else for my HSE Diving Medical. The team are brilliant and even fit me in for an appointment that was very last minute.
Working away/offshore is always hectic and unpredictable, but the team here make it their priority to meet their customers’ needs and requirements, I really can’t thank them enough.
The team always go above and beyond with the service they provide, they are so welcoming, friendly and polite, as well as catering for all types of offshore workers. There’s really nowhere else to go for your diving medical in the North East!
Thank you.
You may also be interested in
- Failure to disclose symptoms or concerns may prevent the occupational health professional from fully assessing your fitness to dive, delaying necessary interventions.
- If you wish to bring a chaperone, please notify us in advance.
- Certificate validation is subject to individual medical results and employer-specific criteria, with validation periods serving as general guidelines that may vary based on personal circumstances.