Radiological Health Program
The Radiological Health Program evaluates the equipment and operating procedures of x-ray and tanning facilities throughout the County. Assuring compliance with the regulations provides protection against accidental harmful exposures during medical x-rays and visits to tanning salons.
X-ray Equipment Inspections
The Radiological Health Program inspects and evaluates several different types of x-ray equipment that can be located at various medical facilities (clinics and hospitals), medical offices (chiropractors, doctors, dentists, podiatrists, veterinarians), and educational and industrial facilities.
The following is a list of the type of x-ray equipment frequently inspected:
- Above table Fluroscopic
- Industrial Gauges
Regulations to Govern the Production and Use of Radiation in Jefferson County, Alabama
Tanning Inspections
The Health Department evaluates tanning facilities and equipment once each year for cleanliness and operational procedures. Each facility is graded on a scale of 100 and a numerical score is issued upon the completion of each inspection.
The following are some of the Health Department requirements for tanning facilities:
- Tanning devices shall comply with FDA regulations.
- An operator shall be present when tanning equipment is operated.
- Current inspection score and results shall be posted in a location easily visible to the consumer.
- Warning signs shall be posted.
- Tanning devices shall be cleaned prior to each use.
Health Problems Associated with Tanning
There are dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, tanning beds, and sun lamps. Two types of ultraviolet radiation are Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB). UVB is associated with sunburn, while UVA is recognized as a deeper penetrating radiation. There may be an association between UVA radiation and malignant melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
For additional information on x-ray and tanning inspections:
(205) 930-1276