The Office of Radiation Control is responsible for all licensing and regulations regarding portable x-ray machines. The office is comprised of 4 branches:
- Emergency Planning & Environmental Monitoring
- Radioactive Materials Compliance
- Licensing & Registration
- X-Ray Compliance
Although Alabama does not require a license to operate an x-ray machine in Alabama, there are still a lot of rules and regulations to follow.
Radiation Control Chapter Rules
Registration of X-Ray Producing Machines (rule 420-3-26-.05)
This requires the registrations of all radiation machines capable of producing x-rays of less than or equal to 1.0 meV. Every person in possession of an x-ray-producing machine shall renew such registration at such times the agency deems necessary, with a form the Alabama State Board of Health provides.
Radiation Safety, Instructions, and Training (rule 420-3-26-.06 and .10)
These regulations require that people who work around radioactive materials or x-ray machines must receive radiation safety training for whatever level is required to work safely while performing their duties. They must also be competent in the safe use of the equipment.
Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment
Equipment
The exposure control switch must be a dead-man type and arranged so the operator can stand at least 6 feet from the patient and well away from the useful beam.
Structural Shielding
When a mobile unit is used routinely in one location, it will be considered a fixed installation subject to different shielding requirements (see 420-3-26-.06(3)(d) and 420-3-26-.06(5)(b)).
Operating Procedures
The target-to-skin distance shall not be less than 12 inches.
Disclaimer: The information in this document is solely for reference material. Regulations change often. To be sure of the most up-to-date laws, contact your local and state agencies.
Additional Resources
For more on the rules and regulations surrounding x-rays in Alabama, check out their Radiation Control FAQ section.
Alabama Radiology License
Alabama Office of Radiation Control
RSA Tower
201 Monroe St., Suite 700
Montgomery, Alabama 36104
(334) 206-5391
Alabama Department of Public Health
Office of Radiation Control
PO Box 30317201
Monroe St.
Montgomery, AL 36130-3017
(334) 206-5391
