Mike Welling, Program Supervisor
Direct number: (804) 864-8168
fax number: (804)-864-8155
Email: mike.welling@vdh.virginia.gov
"To protect the public and occupational radiation workers, and to maintain effective control over licensed radioactive materials to ensure their safe handling and disposal."
This program is responsible for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials in such areas as industrial, medical, educational and research applications. The safe use of radioactive materials is ensured by issuing licenses which state the conditions of use. The facilities are inspected to ensure compliance with these conditions. Currently approximately 220 radioactive material licensees in Virginia are authorized to possess and use naturally occurring and accelerator produced (NARM) radioisotopes under specific conditions. Currently, there are no fees associated with the radioactive materials licensing program. On July 20, 2007 the Board of Health apporved a proposed amendment to 12VAC5-490 to include an application and license fee schedule.
Virginia is not in agreement with the U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for the regulation of byproduct, source, and special nuclear material. A letter of intent signed by the Governor was submitted in December 2005.
On occasion, unidentified but low level radioactive material (<50 mr/hr) in scrap metal or refuse is detected on arrival at facilities providing recycling, disposal or incineration services. In such cases this agency has been authorized by the U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue DOT transportation exemptions for the return of the material to the original shipper.
If you need to apply for a radioactive materials license, the Radioactive Materials Program can assist you in the preparation of your application. Please call for assistance.
Radiological Health Program | James Madison Building, 7th Floor | 109 Governor Street, Room 730 | Richmond, VA 23219 | Telephone (804) 864-8150 | Fax: (804) 864-8155