Consider replacing “physical sciences” with “natural sciences” for the degree qualifications for private inspectors in diagnostic X-ray and mammography. One would assume individuals interested in the medical/healthcare field would obtain a degree in biology or one of the life sciences before settling on radiation physics or health physics as a career choice. Natural science includes the physical sciences plus the life sciences.

I assume the Bachelor’s route for private inspectors of mammography equipment is no longer available and will be deleted in the revised regulation.  The existing regulation is cited for reference:

12VAC5-481-340. Private inspector qualifications.

1. Private inspector, diagnostic x-ray (except mammography).

1. Initial qualifications: evidenced by one or more of the following:

b. Bachelor's degree in one of the physical sciences or engineering and three years of full-time experience in radiation safety including at least one year in diagnostic x-ray safety. Advanced degrees in related areas may be substituted for experience on an equal time basis, except that no substitution shall be allowed for the required one year of experience in diagnostic x-ray safety.

2. Private inspector, mammography.

1. Initial qualifications:

Master Route:

b. A master's degree or higher in a physical science with at least 20 semester hours or equivalent of graduate or undergraduate physics; and

Bachelor Route (must have been qualified before April 28, 1999):

a. A bachelor's degree in a physical science with at least 10 semester hours or equivalent of college level physics;