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you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public records
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office by phone or in writing. All files are 500 KB or less unless otherwise noted.
Program Directory:
Biomedical Waste and Body Piercing Programs
Environmental Radiation and Emergency Response
Group Care Program
Migrant Farmworker Housing Program
Mosquito-borne diseases
Onsite Sewage
Radioactive Materials Program
Radiologic Technology Program
X-ray Machine Registration Program
Biomedical Waste
and Body Piercing Programs
Q: I am interested in the licensing, permitting, and guidelines that
trauma scene cleanup companies must follow in Florida. Can you provide me
this information or recommend where I can find it?
A:
The
Florida Department of Health does not regulate the disinfecting or infection-control
procedures used by trauma scene cleanup companies but does regulate how
they transport and store biomedical waste from the cleanup site.
If you want to transport biomedical waste from a trauma scene, you will
need to register as a transporter with the County Health Department in the
county where you will house your pick-up vehicle. You can work in
surrounding counties without registering in more than the county where you
house the vehicle. You can download an application to register as
a transporter (form DH 4106) from our website at
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/biomedical/index.html.
You can also download from that site the regulation that pertains to biomedical
waste in Florida - Chapter 64E-16 of the Florida Administrative Code.
There are some sections there that deal strictly with transportation of
biomedical waste.
You must figure out what you will do with the waste once you have it in
your transport vehicle. Will you store it somewhere until you get
enough together to take it to a treatment facility or will you take it directly
to a treatment facility without storing it? You can locate treatment
facilities from the website in the second paragraph under "Business Issues".
If you want to store the biomedical waste for longer than 72 hours, you
must apply for a biomedical waste storage permit from the County Health
Department. You can obtain form DH 4107 from the website for that
purpose.
Q:
I am interested in possibly becoming registered to transport biomedical
waste in Florida. I would be interested in knowing how to become licensed.
Any information you could provide would be of great assistance.
A:
If
you want to transport biomedical waste in Florida, you will need to register
as a transporter with the County Health Department in the county where you
will house your pick-up vehicle. You can work in surrounding counties
without registering in more than the county where you house the vehicle.
You can download an application to register as a transporter (form DH 4106)
from our website at
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/biomedical/index.html.
You can also download from that site the regulation that pertains to biomedical
waste in Florida - Chapter 64E-16 of the Florida Administrative Code.
There are some sections there that deal strictly with transportation of
biomedical waste.
You must figure out what you will do with the waste once you have it in
your transport vehicle. Will you store it somewhere until you get
enough together to take it to a treatment facility or will you take it directly
to a treatment facility without storing it? You can locate treatment
facilities from the website in the second paragraph under "Business Issues".
If you want to store the biomedical waste for longer than 72 hours, you
must apply for a biomedical waste storage permit from the County Health
Department. You can obtain form DH 4107 from the website for that
purpose.
Q: Could you please send me information on the Florida state laws
regarding tattooing and application of permanent make-up? Also any
forms or information pertinent to opening a tattoo shop in Florida.
A:
As
required in
section 877.04, Florida Statutes ,
any person who tattoos or applies permanent make-up in Florida must either
be licensed as, or work under the "general supervision" as defined in
Chapter 64B8-2.002, Florida Administrative Code (pdf)
of, a Medical Doctor, a Doctor of Osteopathy, a Doctor of Dental Surgery,
or a Doctor of Medical Dentistry.
The Florida Department of Health has no authority to issue a license to
either tattoo or permanent make-up artists or their place of business. However,
a county or municipal license, such as an occupational license, may be required
depending on the geographical location of the business.
The Florida Department of Health does have authority to issue a biomedical
waste generator permit to tattoo and permanent make-up artists at the location
of their business. Information on the biomedical waste permit process may
be obtained from the
biomedical waste coordinator who has the regulatory responsibility in
the county where the business is located. An application for a biomedical
waste generator permit (Form
DH 4089 (pdf))
can be downloaded from the biomedical waste website (www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/biomedical/index.html).
Q: I recently read a Florida Department of Health press release concerning
the danger involved with getting one of the temporary black henna tattoos
that are advertised in shops or on the street at the beach. Could
you please tell me where I could find that press release so I could show
it to my kids before they go to the beach?
A:
The press release you are referring to can be found at this website:
www.doh.state.fl.us/communications/office/pressreleases/2003/08.18.03henna.doc .
When the message box asking you to Enter Network Password appears, simply
click Cancel and the press release will appear.
Q: What permits and licenses do I need to open a body-piercing salon
in Florida?
A:
If
you intend to open a body-piercing salon in Florida, you must obtain a body-piercing
salon license and a biomedical waste permit from the County Health Department
that has jurisdiction in the county where you intend to locate your business.
The following link will help you find a
biomedical waste coordinator to assist you
with these processes. Before the license and permit can be issued,
an inspection team from the health department will conduct an inspection
to verify that your salon and staff meet all requirements of section
381.0075,
Florida Statutes and
Chapter 64E-16, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C., pdf) .
Although there is no way to satisfy the training requirement for salon operators
and piercers on the Internet, you can obtain the current schedule of classes
at the departments Internet site. The address for the site is
www.doh.state.fl.us. Once you access this site, use the drop-down
menu in the upper right portion of the page to scroll to Body Piercing
and click on it Under the heading Business Issues, you will see
a link called training courses. Click on that link to see a list
of current classes.
Environmental
Radiation and Emergency Response
Q. How is a radiological incident
handled?
A. The department responds to all radiation incidents and emergencies, including unexpected radiation releases from nuclear power plants, transportation accidents, lost or stolen radioactive sources, radiation alarms at metal scrap dealers and waste transfer stations, requests for assistance from law enforcement, and contamination of a facility or the environment. To prepare for these incidents, the department trains its staff and other emergency personnel in emergency response, decontamination procedures, and dose assessment. Staff also learn how to respond to nuclear reactor emergencies during six annual training exercises at the state's nuclear power plants. In addition, the department provides the Kennedy Space Center with emergency response assistance during the launch of spacecraft containing radioactive material, such as the Ulysses, Galileo, Cassini, and recent Pluto New Horizons space probes. To report radiological incidents call the 24 hour Radiological Emergency Response number at 407-297-2095.
Q. I need to dispose of my low-level waste. How do I do that?
A. Every state is responsible
for the disposal of low-level radioactive waste such as contaminated gloves
and clothing produced in that state. In 1983, eight states formed the Southeast
Interstate Low-Level Radioactive Waste Management Compact for safe disposal
of the waste from the region. Florida's shipments to approved disposal sites
come from radioactive material users such as nuclear
power plants, universities, hospitals, manufacturers, mining companies,
and private laboratories. Before shipment, the department inspects each
shipment for compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation standards
for container integrity, external radiation levels, proper labeling, and
accurate shipping papers. Contact the Orlando Health Physics Laboratory
at 407-297-2096 to schedule a shipment inspection and obtain inspection
costs.
Q. I need to have my water tested for radiation. How do I
get this done?
A. The department's radiation
laboratory in Orlando is the primary state laboratory for the analysis of
radionuclides in drinking water. The laboratory analyzes samples from a
variety of sources, including public water systems and private and public
wells. These analyses primarily screen for radium and uranium using EPA approved methods. The department
also evaluates private laboratories that wish to conduct radiological analysis of potable water
samples in Florida. Contact the Laboratory at 407-297-2096 to obtain
cost and procedures for water analyses.
Q. I live near a nuclear power plant and am concerned
about exposure and want information on how to obtain potassium iodide tablets?
A. There are five nuclear
power reactors operating at three sites in Florida. The federal Nuclear
Regulatory Commission licenses these reactors. The department conducts
environmental monitoring programs around all three sites. Thermoluminescent
detectors surrounding each site identify direct radiation and air
sampling stations identify radioactive particulate and iodine emissions. Department
staff also collect and analyze other samples, including vegetation, fish,
citrus, watermelon, milk, garden vegetables, shoreline sediment, beach sand,
drinking water, surface water, and ground water. For more
information on potassium iodide (KI) tablets, please visit our web site
at
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation. Under the Environmental
Radiation section is a link to a KI fact sheet and the state's distribution
policy.
Q. How can my organization obtain radiological emergency response training?
A. The Bureau of Radiation Control has two full time radiological trainers certified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the US Department of Energy. Radiological training can be provided at your choice of location free of cost. Courses include "Radiological Incident Response for County Government"
(2 hours), "First Response to Radiological Accidents and Weapons of Mass Destruction"
(4 hours) and "Advanced Course For Radiological Response"
(16 hours). Custom courses can also be designed to meet your specific needs and requests. Contact the Environmental Radiation Training Officers at 407-297-2096 to obtain more information and schedule training.
Group
Care Program
Q Does the Department conduct school sanitation inspections in home
schools or school located in a private home?
A: No, the rule 64E-13,
FAC, applies to institutional educational facilities, which a private home
does not meet.
Q Does the Department exempt private or religious schools from school
sanitation inspections?
A: No, 64E-13, FAC, is
applied to both public and private schools equally. There are no exemptions
allotted to private or religious based schools or school programs. The Departments
rule pertains to environmental health, safety, and hygiene standards and
do not contain standards to regulate curriculums.
Q Are there fees for group care program inspections?
A: No, currently there
are none.
Q Does the group care program have any state funding support?
A: Yes, currently
the group care program is primarily supported by General Revenue (GR) and
also some trust fund money as well as local contributions from the Board
of County Commissioners. The GR is not provided to the counties as a line
item, but rather is included in the CHDs comprehensive GR amount.
Q Do inspectors have to use their light meters every time we do an
inspection in group care?
A:
Yes, in the group care program, we are in facilities only once or
twice a year, so it is important to determine that the lighting standards
are being met. Just because a light fixture is illuminated, that does
not confirm it meets the minimum number of foot-candles.
Q Is a re-inspection required for repeat (uncorrected) violation?
A: In
the group care program the inspection frequency is only once or twice a
year, 6-12 months should be an adequate amount of time to correct a violation.
A repeat violation is when the same item remains uncorrected from
the previous inspection. For example: Inspection #1; Bicycle
has no seat. Remove bike from play area and replace missing seat to red
bike. Satisfactory marked. Inspection #2; (the same) Bicycle
seat is still missing. Remove bike from play area and replace missing seat.
A re-inspection is scheduled, unsatisfactory is marked.
Migrant Farmworker
Housing Program
Q: Why was the migrant program created?
A: The migrant program was created to prescribe
minimum sanitation requirements to protect the health and safety of the
persons residing in the migrant labor housing and to reduce the number of
migrant farmworkers exposed to unsanitary conditions both in migrant labor
housing and in the workplaces (64-E - 14.001).
Q: What is the purpose of the rules for migrant farmworker housing?
A: The rules provide minimum sanitation and health
standards relating to construction, operation, and maintenance of migrant
labor camps and residential migrant housing (64 -E 14.001).
Q: What is the definition of a migrant farmworker?
A: A migrant farmworker is a person
who is or has been employed in hand-labor operations in planting, cultivating,
or harvesting agricultural crops within the last 12 months and who has changed
residence for the purpose of employment in agriculture within the last 12
months (64-E -14.002 (8)).
Q: Does the 64 E- 14.001 rules apply to migrant farmworkers living in
private residential rental housing?
A: Yes, the rule is applicable to mobile homes,
private residential rentals, rooming houses, barracks, and housing authority
projects for farmworkers when these facilities constitute a migrant labor
camp or residential migrant housing (64 E -14.001).
Q: Do I need a permit for migrant farmworker housing?
A: Yes. Any person who is planning to construct,
enlarge, remodel, or convert a property for use or occupancy as a migrant
labor camp or residential migrant housing must apply for a permit. Applications
can be obtained from the Environmental Health Office at your Local County
Health Department.
Q: Are there any application fees?
A: Yes. Application fees vary depending on the number
of occupants you will be housing. The Environmental Health staff can help
you determine those fees.
Q: Will a permit be issued, and for how long?
A: Yes. If a County Health Department finds that
the housing meets standards, then the Health Department will issue a permit.
The permit, unless sooner revoked, expires on September 30 after the date
of issuance.
Q: How do I know housing is safe?
A: Environmental health specialist regularly inspects
the housing and investigates complaints to ensure the required housing standards
are maintained. The standards relate to safety and sanitation of migrant
farmworker housing.
Q: Is there an agency or toll-free number to call concerning complaints
related to migrant farmworker issues?
A: Yes. The center is
called the Customer Advocacy Center (CAC). The toll free number is (1-800-633-3572).
Q: What happens after an inspection?
A: Once the environmental health specialist(s)
conduct the inspection, the owner or operator will be notified of the violations
found. When a major deficiency is found and reported to the owner or operator,
a maximum amount of time will be given to make satisfactory corrections.
Q: What is a major deficiency?
A: A major violation is considered to any one
or more violations that would cause an immediate threat to public health
or cause a serious risk of injury migrant farmworkers living in the migrant
housing (i.e., sewage on the ground, hole in the floor to the exterior,
ceiling/roof leak, dilapidated structure, etc).
Q: What happens if violations are not corrected?
A: When violations have not been corrected,
a citation may be issued to the owner, supervisor, or operator of the farmworker
housing. When a responsible person cannot be identified, any of the above
may be cited.
Q: The owner and operators responsibilities.
A: The owner and operator are responsible for
complying with all statutory requirements and rules relating to migrant
labor camps and residential migrant housing. These requirements and rules
can be found in 381.008-381.00897, F.S. (Florida Statute) and Rule 64-E-14.
F.A.C.
Q: How can I get more information?
A: If you have questions about the migrant housing
program rules and regulations, please contact the Environmental Health Office
at your Local County Health Department or access the World Wide Web at
http://www.myflorida.com
and search for migrant farmworker housing or Contact Sharon Saulter, MPH,
Migrant Program Consultant, at the State Health Office (850) 245 -4444 ext
2338.
Mosquito-borne
diseases
Q: What can I do to protect myself and my family from West Nile virus and
other mosquito-borne diseases?
A: Practice
the 5 D's of prevention. The first 2 stand for "Dusk" and Dawn". Avoid being
outdoors when mosquitoes are most active. The third D stands for "Dress".
Cover your skin with clothing. The 4th D stands for "DEET". Use mosquito
repellant on bare skin and clothing. The final D stands for "Drainage".
Remove standing water in which mosquitoes can lay eggs.
Q: What causes West Nile virus infection?
A:
West Nile virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected
mosquito. Some people never have symptoms, but others experience a range
of symptoms that can include fever, headache, muscle aches and sometimes
paralysis. Someone suffering a severe headache or other neurological signs
should see their doctor for testing. Free blood testing for arboviruses
is offered by the DOH laboratories. The proper diagnosis is important for
a better chance of survival. Left untreated, a viral inflammation of the
brain (encephalitis) or spinal cord (meningitis) can lead to coma or death.
Other diseases transmitted by mosquito bite include St. Louis Encephalitis,
Eastern Equine Encephalomyelitis, Dengue fever and Malaria.
Q: How do I know if West Nile virus is in my area?
A:
You can check our webpage at
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/Environment/community/arboviral/index.html or call our recorded update line at 1-888-880-5782 toll-free.
Dead birds, especially blue jays and crows, can be an indicator that
West Nile is nearby. If you see a dead bird, please report it at
www.wildflorida.org/bird/
or call your local health department. Mosquitoes are present in Florida
year-round. It is always wise to avoid mosquito bites, whether or not there
is evidence of local virus transmission.
Onsite Sewage
Q:
In Florida, who is allowed to engage in septic tank contracting?
A:
a. A homeowner doing work at his or her owner-occupied
single family home only.
b. A state plumber, licensed pursuant to section
489.105(3)(m), FS.
c. A septic tank contractor registered pursuant
to Part III of Chapter 489, FS, and Part III of Rule 64E-6, FAC.
Q: Is experience under a licensed plumber equivalent
to that obtained under a registered septic tank contractor?
A: Yes, provided the applicant
can document that septic tank contracting services were rendered under the
supervision of a state plumber licensed pursuant to section 489.105 (3)(m),
FS.
Q:
Is a state licensed plumber exempt from septic tank installation
permits, inspections and other Rule 64E-6, FAC, requirements?
A: No.
The state licensed plumber is only exempt
from the septic tank contractor registration requirement. All other
requirements found in Rule 64E-6, FAC and section 381.0065 - 381.00655,
FS, pertaining to the installation, repair, modification, maintenance, and
septic tank pumping and abandonment, must be met.
Q: Is out-of-state septic tank
work experience acceptable to qualify for the septic tank contractor registration
examination?
A:
Out-of-state work experience on a year for year basis shall be accepted
for any applicant who demonstrates that they hold a current statewide license
for septic tank contracting which was issued upon satisfactory completion
of an equivalent examination and required continuing education courses for
renewal. For purposes of this section, an equivalent examination means
that at a minimum, the following topics were tested and passed: system location
and installation; site evaluation criteria; system size determinations;
disposal of septage; construction standards for drainfield systems and U.S.
Department of Agriculture soil textural classification system. A person
employed by and under the supervision and control of such a licensed contractor
shall be granted up to two years of related work experience.
Q: Is septic tank work experience
documented with IRS Form 1099 acceptable to qualify for the septic tank
contractor registration examination?
A:
No. IRS Form 1099 specifically documents
non-employee compensation for services rendered. This type of work
experience indicates a possible subcontractual relationship between a registered
septic tank contractor and an individual who is not allowed under Florida
rules and statutes to offer to contract or provide septic tank contracting
activities.
Q: When and where are septic
tank contractor registration examinations offered?
A:
Examinations are offered in Tallahassee and Orlando on the last Monday of
each month (excluding December and holidays). Examinations are scheduled
from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.
Q: Is there a course requirement
prior to application for septic tank contractor registration examinations?
A: No.
Q: Are there any penalties for
individuals or companies who offer or provide septic tank contracting services
without a registration and/or a business authorization from the department?
A: Yes.
Individuals and companies may be subject to administrative actions, citations,
fines and other legal actions, if services are performed or offered without
the benefit of a registration and a business authorization.
Q: Can a registered septic tank
contractor authorize more than one business?
A: No. A registered
septic tank contractor may not be the sole qualifier for more than one septic
tank contracting business requiring a certificate of authorization.
Q: Can an authorized septic
tank business advertise under multiple (more than one) business names?
A:
No. An authorized septic tank business
may only advertise under the business name authorized with the department.
Q: Can an authorized septic
tank contracting business continue to operate after loosing its sole qualifying
contractor?
A: An authorized
business organization which loses its qualifying contractor shall have 60
days from the date the qualifier terminated his or her affiliation within
which to obtain another qualifying contractor. During this time, the
authorized business may not undertake any new contracts. Existing
and ongoing (cyclical) contracts executed by the registered septic tank
contractor prior to his or her disassociation with the authorized business
may be completed during this time.
Q. Who offers continuing education
courses required for registration renewals?
A.
Continuing education courses are typically offered
by private associations (i.e, Florida Onsite Wastewater Association, Florida
Environmental Health Association, etc.) You may contact the Bureau
of Onsite Sewage Programs for
listings of approved continuing education courses.
Q: Can a registered septic tank
contractor be exempt from the certificate of business authorization?
A:
Yes. A registered contractor
offering septic tank contracting under his given name, as a sole proprietership,
is exempt from the business authorization certificate. Example: John
Doe Septic, with John Doe as the only owner would not be required for filing.
If John Does wife Jane were also an owner, a fictitious name would need
to be filed and a certificate of authorization would be required.
Also, Johns Septic or Does Septic would require the filing of a fictitious
name and a certificate of authorization.
If you are exempt from filing with the Department of State for a fictitious
name, you are exempt from the certificate of authorization.
Q:
Do I need to be a registered
septic tank contractor to pump septic tanks?
A: Yes.
Radiologic
Technology Program
Q: I want to know the current status of a certificate
holder. Where can I find this information?
A: You
can find out the current status, expiration date, category, and other information
by visiting the
Radiologic Technology Certificate Holder Search Page.
The Search page also displays all current continuing education courses and
hours that the department has received from approved providers for a certificate
holder's current renewal cycle.
Q: Do I need a Florida certificate (license) to administer
ionizing radiation to humans in Florida, or perform other radiologic technology
procedures? What types of certification are offered in Florida?
A: Yes,
unless you qualify for an exemption listed under s. 468.302, Florida Statute
(F.S.) Section 468.302(1), F.S., states that no person shall use ionizing
radiation on a human unless that person is a licensed practitioner or a
radiologic technology certificate holder in Florida. According to s. 468.301,
F.S., "licensed practitioner" means a person who is licensed or otherwise
authorized by law in Florida to practice medicine, podiatric medicine, chiropody,
osteopathic medicine, naturopathy, or chiropractic medicine in this state.
A radiologic technology certificate holder is a: Basic X-ray Machine Operator,
Basic X-ray Machine Operator-Podiatric Medicine, General Radiographer, Nuclear
Medicine Technologist, or a Radiation Therapy Technologist. Section 468.302(6),
F.S. contains a list of persons who may be exempt under certain situations
which includes medical students, radiologic technology students, federal
employees, or persons performing certain cardiopulmonary services.
See s. 468.301, F.S., and s. 468.302, F.S., for more details.
Q: What types of certification are offered in Florida?
A:
Florida offers five types of certification: Basic X-ray Machine Operator,
Basic X-ray Machine Operator-Podiatric Medicine, General Radiographer, Nuclear
Medicine Technologist, and Radiation Therapy Technologist.
Q: What are the requirements for certification?
A: Florida
provides two avenues of certification for Radiologic Technology professionals:
certification by examination or certification by endorsement.
According to s. 468.304, F.S., all applicants desiring certification must:
submit a completed application along with the required fee; be at least
18 years of age at the time of application; be of good moral character;
and have completed an educational program, or course of study approved by
the Department. For those applying to become General Radiographers, Nuclear
Medicine Technologists, and Radiation Therapists the requirement for an
educational program means they must have successfully completed a two-year
accredited Radiologic Technology Program. Those applying to become Basic
X-ray Machine Operators must have completed the study guide which is available
for purchase and provided by the department.
Under s. 468.3065, F.S., applicants may be certified by
endorsement if they meet the requirements listed above and who can demonstrate
that they hold a current certificate, license, or registration to practice
Radiologic Technology in another jurisdiction. However, the requirements
of all such certificates, licenses or registrations to practice Radiologic
Technology in the other jurisdiction (ARRT, NMTCB, some states) must be
substantially equivalent (in the department's opinion) to those established
in Florida to be accepted.
Applicants who are not applying by endorsement must take
the Florida certification exam.
Q: Is there a list of approved educational training
programs for General Radiographers, Nuclear Medicine Technologists, and
Radiation Therapists?
A:
A list of Florida approved Radiologic Technology programs can be
found at our website address at www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/radtech1.htm
(click on the "Forms and Documents" link). The list is available in Adobe
Acrobat format. For a list of national programs please visit ARRT's website
at www.arrt.org.
Such programs are accredited by either JRCERT (Radiography or Therapy),
JRCNMT (Nuclear Medicine), or one of the six regional accreditation agencies
recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Please refer to Rule 64E-3.002,
F.A.C. for more details.
Q: How does the examination process work?
A:
Once the candidate is approved for examination we will mail them
an "Exam Scheduled" letter and forward their information to our test administrator
(ARRT). About a week later, the test administrator will send the candidate
an examination information packet including a Candidate Status Report, an
Exam Handbook and scheduling instructions. The exam candidate will be assigned
a 90-day testing window and given instructions on how to contact Pearson
VUE to schedule an exam appointment. Pearson VUE testing centers are located
throughout Florida and the nation and work in conjunction with our test
administrator (visit
www.pearsonvue.com/arrt
for a current list of centers). If exam candidates do not schedule
and take their exam during their assigned 90-day window, or if they miss
their scheduled appointment, they will forfeit their exam fee and will need
to reapply to take their exam. Their exam window will not be extended. Please
refer to (s. 468.306, F.S., and Rule 64E-3.005, F.A.C.)
Q: What kind of exam does Florida use?
A:
To ensure adherence to nationally accepted standards, Florida contracts
with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for all it's
examination services. For example, for our Basic X-ray Machine Operator,
we use ARRT's Limited Scope Radiography exam.
Q: When and where is the exam given?
A:
The examination is given at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout
the nation. Please visit
www.pearsonvue.com/arrt
for current locations. Please note that you cannot schedule your exam until
we have determined you meet all state requirements and you have received
the exam packet from our test administrator.
Q: I just took and passed my exam - how soon can I
expect to see the results show up as an active certificate in the database?
A:
It takes about 2 weeks from the date you take the exam for the successful
result to be processed and updated to the system. It may take longer if
the exam contractor or test centers are closed due to state or federal holidays.
Once the result is in the system it will take an additional couple days
for your certificate to be printed and mailed out. However, you can work
as soon as the system indicates your certificate is Active.
Q: Is examination required for renewal of a certificate?
A:
No. Per s. 468.309(1)(a), F.S., a certificate shall be renewed by
the department for a period of two years upon payment of a renewal fee;
completion of 12 hours of approved continuing education; and submission
of a completed renewal application containing such information as the department
deems necessary to show that the applicant for renewal is a certificate
holder in good standing. Please refer to s. 468.309, F.S., for additional
information.
Q: Can an individual currently registered with ARRT
work in Florida?
A:
Only if they also have an active Florida certificate. Florida certification
is required of all Radiologic Technology professionals practicing in Florida.
See s. 468.302, F.S., for further information. Persons with current ARRT
licensure can apply for certification by endorsement in Florida as long
as they meet all other requirements.
Q: Can an individual currently registered with NMTCB
work in Florida?
A:
Only if they also have an active Florida certificate. Florida certification
is required of all Nuclear Medicine Technologists practicing in the State
of Florida. See s. 468.302, F.S., for further information. Persons with
current NMTCB licensure can apply for endorsement in Florida as long as
they meet all other requirements.
Q: Where can I get a list of approved continuing education
providers?
A:
You can find a list on our
Approved Continuing Education Provider page.
Q: How does someone become an approved continuing education
provider?
A:
To become an approved provider, you must complete and submit, at
least 30 days prior to the course presentation date: a Provider Information
Sheet (Form 374) for each course; a copy of the course material (if home
study or Internet) or course outline (if live); and a resume for each course
presenter. For a complete understanding of the process and your responsibilities
as a provider, please download a copy of our Provider Guidelines booklet
from the
Forms and Documents page. The Provider Information Sheet (Form 374)
can be downloaded from the same location.
Q: I don't see one of my continuing education courses
listed under my name after I searched my information on the Radiologic Technology
Certificate Holder Search Page. What should I do?
A:
The first thing to do is make sure you took an
approved course from an
approved provider
and that you told the provider you are certified in Florida and gave them
your Florida certificate number (not your ARRT number). The next thing is
to see if they have had enough time to report the course to us. Please allow
four weeks for the provider to report the course. If you still haven't seen
the course show up by then, contact the provider. If the provider still
can't help,
contact us.
Remember to always keep a copy of the your approved course certificate so
that if all else fails, you can send that to us with your renewal form to
receive credit.
Q: What are the requirements for renewing my active
certificate before it expires?
A:
Approximately 60 days prior to your certificate expiration date,
the department will mail a renewal form and
instructions (doc)
to your last known address. In order to renew, you must submit a completed
renewal form, correct fees, and proof of 12 hours of
approved continuing education from an
approved provider.
No more than 3 of the 12 hours can be in the personal development category
(CPR, etc.) - the rest must be technical radiation protection, equipment
operation, etc. All continuing education used to renew a certificate must
have been earned in the current renewal cycle and the same course cannot
be repeated in the same cycle. Renewal forms which are post marked after
your certificate expiration date will be considered late and additional
late fees will be due. Any certificate that is not renewed by midnight on
the expiration date automatically expires and cannot be used to practice.
Q: I don't understand the requirements for reactivating
my expired or inactive certificate. Could you explain?
A:
A certificate that has been expired or inactive can be reactivated
for up to 10 years after going inactive or expired. To reactivate a certificate,
you need to
contact us and request a reactivation form and
reactivation instruction (doc)s.doc
Reactivation is very similar to renewal and requires submission of the form,
correct fees, and proof of completing the required number of
approved
continuing education hours from
an
approved provider.
The number of hours required varies with the length of time the certificate
has been inactive or expired - typically 3 hours for every six months the
certificate has been inactive or expired. All continuing education hours
used to reactivate a certificate must have been earned in the 24 months
prior to reactivation. Certificates which expired without being renewed
are subject to a late fee, in addition to the normal renewal fee. Certificates
which have been inactive for at least a year are only subject to the normal
renewal fee. Certificates which have been inactive for less than one year
are subject to the late fee. Department staff will list the correct number
of hours and fees when they print your form.
Q: Can you help me become certified as an MRI or ultrasound
technologist?
A:
No. These professions are not licensed or certified by the Department
of Health. The statute that gives the Department the authority to certify
radiologic technologists, Chapter 468, Part IV, F.S., only applies to persons
who administer ionizing radiation (x-rays, gamma rays, etc.) to humans.
MRI and ultrasound do not use ionizing radiation.
Q: Can you help me become certified as a radiologist,
radiation oncologist, medical physicist, or nuclear medicine physician?
A:
No. The radiologic technology program only certifies General Radiographers,
Basic X-ray Machine Operators, Nuclear Medicine Technologists, and Radiation
Therapy Technologists. For information about licensure of other health professionals,
please visit the
Division of Medical Quality Assurance.
Q: I don't think the person who took my x-ray has a
license. What can I do?
A:
You should contact our office and provide information so that we
can investigate. You can report allegations of uncertified x-ray operators,
or other violations of the radiologic technologist certification laws, to
us via email, phone, or in writing. Please provide as much information as
you can, including: 1) the complete name, address, and phone number of the
facility involved; 2) name, address, and phone number of the owner's of
the facility; 3) name, address, phone number, and description of the alleged
operators/violators; 4) name, address, and phone number of any witnesses
who can corroborate your allegation; 5) date, time, patients' names, body
part x-rayed, and complete description of the violation; 6) whether the
owners or supervising physicians knew about this activity; 7) a description
of any physical evidence that can corroborate your allegation, such as patient
log book or x-rays showing operator's name or initials, and; 8) any other
information you can provide that would help the investigation.
Please also provide a phone number or email address so that we can reach
you, if we need additional information. However, before revealing your name,
phone number, email address, or other information about yourself, please
note that such information becomes a matter of public record. We cannot
withhold this information if it is requested by others, including those
being investigated.
Q: How can I change my address?
A:
In order to protect the security of your certificate, we ask that
you fax (or US mail) a signed change of address request to us at 850.921.6365,
and include your full name, certificate number, and new address. The change
of address must be signed by you.
However, if you do not have access to a fax machine, you
can instead email your change of address back to us as long as you include
all of the above information plus one other piece of identifying information
such as your date of birth, social security number, or place (city & state)
of birth. The additional piece of identifying information must match the
information given in your file or we will not be able to process your request
by email.
Radioactive
Materials Program
Q. What are the physician training and experience requirements to
be identified on a radioactive materials license as an authorized user?
A: The training and experience
requirements are different for diagnostic procedures and therapy procedures.
A complete list of the training requirements may be found in Part VI, Subpart
I of Chapter 64E-5, Florida Administrative Code. This subpart encompasses
section 64E-5.648 through 65E-5.658, Florida Administrative Code.
Part VI may viewed at www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/regs/64part6.pdf
or downloaded from
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/regs/64E-5tab.htm.
In addition, hospitals providing clinical training to physicians to become
authorized users may be documented on the medical preceptor/applicant statement
which may be viewed at www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/radmat/PA-stmt.pdf
or downloaded from
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/matform.htm.
Q. What are the fees for a radioactive materials
license?
A: For new licenses there is a nonrefundable application fee and within
60 days of issuance the first years annual fees are due. The amount
of these fees varies between the different types of use or license category.
For example, fees for a non-medical use of fixed or portable gauges containing
radioactive materials will be different from a hospital that wants to administer
radioactive materials for medical use. We currently have 40 different
types of licenses. These license types and the fees may be found in
Regulatory Guide 6.20 which may be viewed or downloaded at
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/matform.htm#Regulatory%20Guides
Q. Where can I obtain a radioactive materials license application
and any guidance documents for completing the application?
A: The application
and general guidance for obtaining a radioactive materials license may be
found at
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/matform.htm#Regulatory%20Guides.
The Radioactive Materials Program has developed an application guide specific
for "Medical Use of Radioactive Materials" and "Portable Gauges Containing
Radioactive Materials". These two regulatory guides contain model
procedures that the applicant may adopt as their own. These model
procedures address all aspects of a radiation safety program required to
obtain the license. If the applicant is able to adopt the model procedures
it prevents them from spending time and resources in developing these procedures
and speeds up the office review time. These guidance documents may
also be found at
www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/matform.htm#Regulatory%20Guides.
Q. How do I obtain reciprocity approval?
A:
To obtain reciprocity you must call our office at least 3-days prior
to entry into the state (some exceptions may apply, inquire when you call).
For us to evaluate approving reciprocity recognition of an out-of state
or U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's radioactive materials license, the
license must authorize temporary job site locations, the requested work
type, and individuals performing the work. When you call, indicate
that this is a reciprocity request. You also should be able to provide
the dates and locations of the entry, client contact information, the individuals
performing the work, and information on all sources and devices. We
will require a copy of your radioactive materials license and a written
request for reciprocity. The reciprocity fee is the annual fee that
is charged to Florida licensees for the type of license needed. The
fee is valid for 365 days from the first entry and may be found in regulatory
guide 6.20 which may be viewed or downloaded from
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/matform.htm#Regulatory%20Guides.
Please note that reciprocity must be approved prior to entry and is not
automatically approved. Additional consideration is required when radioactive
materials are released into the environment such as in certain tracer uptake
studies associated with well logging activities or research projects.
The Bureau of Radiation Control, Radioactive Materials Program phone number
is (850) 245-4545.
Q. How do I obtain a low-level waste permit? When do I need
one?
A.
A permit is required for any carrier who transports low-level radioactive
waste into or through the state destined for a low-level radioactive waste
treatment, storage or disposal facility. The carrier must obtain a
permit prior to entering the state. You may obtain a low-level radioactive
waste permit by submitting a written request and sending the $100 permit
fee. Please provide the name, address and telephone number of the
carrier and a statement that you will follow the requirements of U.S. D.O.T.
regulations and the requirements of Part XV of Chapter 64E-5, Florida Administrative
Code. (This may be viewed or downloaded from
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/radiation/regs/64E-5tab.htm.
Please have checks, drafts or money orders made payable to Department of
Health Bureau of Radiation Control, and mail them to Department of Health,
Bureau of Radiation Control, 4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin #C21, Tallahassee
Fl 32399-1741. Please call us at (850) 245-4545 for a week-day overnight
delivery address.
Q. If my facility
was recently inspected, who do I contact for inspection findings?
A. You should receive
a written notice of your radioactive material license inspection findings
within 30 days of the inspection. Contact the Radioactive Materials
Program at (850) 245-4545 for final inspection results. Please be
able to provide your radioactive materials license number and the inspection
date. If you are inquiring about a written inspection compliance letter
you received, please provide your license number and the inspection document
tracking number that is listed on the compliance letter.
X-ray Machine Registration Program
Q. Am I required to have monitoring
badges?
A.
Film badges are required if a radiation
worker is likely to receive more than ten percent of their annual limit
of 5 rem or if a radiation worker declares their intent to become pregnant
or their pregnancy. Activities typically requiring film badges include
fluoroscopy, veterinary radiography, industrial radiography, and mobile
radiography.
Q. Where can I obtain monitoring badges?
A. A list of National
Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program certified vendors can be found at:http://ts.nist.gov/Standards/scopes/ionra.htm
Q. How much lead lining is needed for my
office?
A. Sufficient shielding
to protect members of the public and workers from unnecessary exposure is
required for all radiation machines. The actual amount of shielding
depends on the machine and how it is used.
Q. Where can I get Report of Assembly forms, FDA 2579?
A. The form FDA 2579,
Report of Assembly of a Diagnostic X-ray System, can be ordered from the
Consolidated Forms and Publications Distribution Center, 6351 Ammendale
Rd, Beltsville, MD 20705, or the request can be faxed to 301-594-0300 or
submitted through their website at
www.fda.gov/opacom/morechoices/fdaforms/forward.html.
Q. Who do I talk with regarding an x-ray machine inspection
violation?
A. The radiation
machine program, 904-278-5730, can provide answers to questions concerning
inspection violations.
Q. How do I register my radiation machine?
A. The Radiation
Machine Registration Form, DH 1107, must be completed and submitted to the
bureau within 30 days of taking possession of a new radiation machine.
Q. Im worried about exposure from a radiation machine. Who
can I talk with about this?
A. The radiation
machine program, 904-278-5730, can provide answers to questions concerning
exposures from radiation machines.
Q. How do I register my accelerator?
A. Accelerator registration
begins with the submission of shielding plans to the bureau prior to construction.
If a new accelerator is to be installed in an existing vault, a review of
the existing shielding is submitted instead.
Q. Im having trouble with my machine since it was inspected.
Who can I talk with about this?
A. The radiation
machine program, 904-278-5730, can provide help when a machine has problems
after an inspection.
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