Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 124 S. 92)
The title is 'Rules and Regulations Governing the Establishment, Operation and Maintenance of an X-ray Facility in the Philippines.'
The purpose is to protect the health of the people by preventing the operation of substandard, improperly managed, and inadequately supported x-ray facilities.
They apply to all entities establishing, operating, or maintaining x-ray facilities using x-ray devices intentionally for irradiation.
An x-ray device is an apparatus equipped with a high vacuum tube that produces x-rays by bombarding a target, usually metallic, with fast moving electrons.
Classifications include anti-crime, clinical, dental, education and training, industrial, research, and veterinary x-ray facilities.
Yes, no x-ray facility may operate without a valid license issued by the Department of Health.
Facilities must demonstrate compliance with Technical Standards; have qualified personnel including a head and radiation safety officer; have calibrated and safe equipment; and maintain a proper physical plant.
The application must include name, citizenship, domicile of head and owner, place of establishment, name of establishment, names and qualifications of workers, details of equipment, types of x-ray exams performed, and proof of compliance with business requirements.
Fees vary based on the milliamperage of the x-ray device, with initial licenses ranging from P400 to P1000 per unit and renewal fees from P200 to P500 per unit, plus surcharges for late renewal.
Violators may pay a fine of P500 or suffer imprisonment not exceeding six (6) months, and the license to operate may be suspended or revoked.
Violations include operating without qualified personnel, unreported changes in ownership or personnel, refusal of inspection, use of non-compliant equipment, inadequate radiation protection, falsification of applications, and operation without necessary accessories.
The Radiation Health Service must be notified immediately, and a written report including corrective actions must be sent to the Bureau of Licensing and Regulation.
The license is valid for one year, and renewal applications must be filed two months before expiration with the Radiation Health Service.
Yes, provided no adverse action has been taken against it or unless otherwise ordered by the Undersecretary of Health.
The license must be displayed conspicuously, and the head physician and radiologic technologists must display their certificates of proficiency within the facility.
The Bureau of Licensing and Regulation Director or the Radiation Health Service Director or their authorized representatives conduct inspections, possibly with assistance from professional experts.
The facility must immediately cease operation; the device may be incapacitated by detaching a high tension wire and sealing it, preventing further use until approved by the DOH.