The Massachusetts Radiation program is hosted by both the Massachusetts Bureau of Environmental Health and the Department of Public Health.
X-ray License in Massachusetts
To apply for a radiologic tech license, you must meet the following requirements:
- Radiologic Technologist Licensing Application Form, completed and signed
- Copy of your A.R.R.T. or N.M.T.C.B. certification card
If you are re-applying for a license (expired for more than 6 months), you will also need:
- Documentation of CEU credits from your last full biennium
- Documentation of one CEU credit per month since the start of your current CEU biennium
- See 105 CMR 125.009 for acceptable CEU requirements
Registering an X-ray Device
Registration of x-ray units in the state of Massachusetts is mandatory. Each person
who owns and controls a radiation machine facility must register it with the Radiation Control Program. Your business must possess a valid Certificate of Registration prior to the operation of a radiation machine facility. Here is the Massachusetts Department Of Public Health Radiation Control Program Application For Registering Radiation Sources.
Regulations for Portable X-ray Equipment
105 CMR 120.000: The Control of Radiation contains the rules and regulations for a portable device. Some of these include:
- Mobile or portable radiographic systems shall only be used for examinations where it is impractical to transfer the patient(s) to a stationary x-ray installation.
- Only x-ray systems provided with a means for independent stepless adjustment of at least two dimensions of the x-ray field shall be used.
- A method shall be provided for visually defining the perimeter of the x-ray field.
- Used continuously for greater than one week in the same location, i.e., a room or suite, shall meet the requirements of 105 CMR 120.406(B)(6)(a)
- Used for less than one week at the same location shall be provided with either a protective barrier at least 6.5 feet high for operator protection during exposure or means shall be provided to allow the operator to be at least 9 feet from the tube housing assembly during the exposure.
- The x-ray control shall provide visual indication observable at or from the operator's protected position whenever x-rays are produced. In addition, a signal audible to the operator shall indicate that the exposure has terminated.
- All mobile or portable radiographic systems shall be provided with means to limit the source-to-skin distance to equal to or greater than 30 centimeters, except for veterinary systems.
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
Radiation Control Program
RT Licensing Schraff Center
Suite 1M2A529
Main St.
Charleston, MA 02129
(617) 427-2944
Massachusetts Radiology License
Massachusetts Radiation Control Program
90 Washington St.
Dorchester, Massachusetts 02121
(617) 427-2944
