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Arizona Portable X-ray Regulations

Written by Chad Hutchison | Dec 12, 2022 10:29:50 AM

Arizona defines the utilization of a portable or mobile x-ray machine (not conducted in a shielded enclosure) as “field radiography.” 

In this same context, “portable” is defined as x-ray equipment that is designed to be carried by hand, but attached to a cord or delayed timer system that enables the operator to be 6 feet or more away from the useful beam. 

The state of Arizona has regulations for x-ray equipment, licensing, and the people who operate the device. 

X-ray License in Arizona

When it comes to practicing, the Arizona Revised Statute that governs radiologic techs states:

Ariz Rev Stat § 32-2811 (A) (2010) 

 “[n]o person may use ionizing radiation on a human being unless the person is a licensed practitioner or the holder of a certificate as provided in this chapter.” 

Ariz Rev Stat § 32-2811 (B) (2010) 

“[a] person holding a certificate may use ionizing radiation on human beings only for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes while operating in each particular case at the direction of a licensed practitioner.”

“The provisions of the technologist’s certificate govern the extent of application of ionizing radiation.” 

Registering an X-ray Device

When you register an x-ray device in the state of Arizona, you must furnish the following data:

  • Name and mailing address of the general licensee
  • Information about each device (includes manufacturer, model and serial number, radioisotope, and activity
  • Title, name, and phone number of the individual responsible and appointed by the general licensee (under subsection (A)(4)(n))
  • For a portable device, the address of the primary place of storage
  • Certification that the data concerning each device has been verified through a physical inventory and review of label information
  • Certification by the responsible individual that they are aware of the requirements of the general license

It should be noted, for a portable device, reporting a change of address is only necessary when changing the device’s primary place of storage. 

Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment

The Arizona Administrative Code Chapter 1 is designed for the Radiation Regulatory Agency. Here is what will apply to your portable x-ray business:

General Procedures - R12-1-604

The general procedures apply to all types of x-rays in the state of Arizona, and concern:

  • Patient and staff positioning
  • Protective gear
  • Stray radiation
  • Prohibited acts like long exposures and lack of protective equipment

A clause that specifically applies to portable x-rays is:

“Individuals, other than the patient to be examined, who cannot be removed from the room during mobile or portable radiography shall be protected from the direct scatter radiation by whole-body protective barriers of 0.25 millimeters lead equivalent or shall be so positioned that the nearest portion of the body is at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) from both the tube head and the nearest edge of the image receptor.” 

Record-keeping

For each portable x-ray machine, you must maintain the following records:

  1. Survey, maintenance, calibration, and modification records regarding the x-ray machine, which include the name of the person who performed the service.
  2. Correspondence with the agency regarding the x-ray machine facility

X-ray Machine Standards - R12-1-605

  • Prevent leakage radiation from the diagnostic source assembly measured at a distance of 1 m.
  • Prevent radiation emitted by a component other than the diagnostic source assembly from exceeding 516 nC/kg
  • Beam quality
  • Multiple tubes
  • Mechanical support of the tube head
  • Exposure reproducibility
  • Accuracy deviation

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.

See below for more details on the Arizona Administrative Code and regulations that could apply to your business. 

Additional Resources

Arizona Radiology License

4814 S. 40th St.

Phoenix, Arizona 85040

(602) 255-4845

Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency

Medical Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners

4814 South 40th St.

Phoenix, AZ 85040

(602) 255-4845