(1) In assessing whether or not the seafarer is fit in terms of the medical and vision standards —
(a) the seafarer may be assessed as fit in category —
(i) A, for unrestricted sea service,
(ii) A(T), for unrestricted sea service, subject to medical surveillance,
(iii) B, for restricted sea service only, with the restriction being clearly specified on the medical fitness certificate;
(b) the seafarer may be assessed as not fit in category —
(i) C, temporarily, subject to review in 4 weeks,
(ii) D, indefinitely, subject to review in 6 months,
(iii) E, permanently.
(2) A seafarer assessed as fit in category A(T) is considered fit for all shipping trades, geographical areas, types of ships or jobs but medical surveillance is required at intervals and the medical fitness certificate should be validated only for the appropriate period which should take into account the expected duration of the tour of duty.
(3) A seafarer assessed as fit in category B for restricted service is restricted to certain shipping trades, geographical areas, types of ships or jobs for such period of time as stipulated in the medical fitness certificate.
(4) Before assessing a seafarer as not fit in category E permanently, a recognized duly qualified medical practitioner shall make full use of categories B, C and D, conduct a full investigation and consideration of the case and discuss the matter with the seafarer.
(5) A recognized duly qualified medical practitioner shall have regard to the categories specified for the diseases set out in Schedule 3.
(6) Where a recognized duly qualified medical practitioner assesses a seafarer as not fit under subregulation (1)(b), he or she shall give the seafarer notice in the form set out in Schedule 4.