Proficiency in the use of systems for classifying the pneumoconioses.

§ 37.52 Proficiency in the use of systems for classifying the pneumoconioses. (a) First or A Readers: (1) Approval of a physician as an A Reader continues indefinitely if established prior to October 15, 2012. (2) Physicians who desire to become A Readers must demonstrate their proficiency in classifying the pneumoconioses by either: (i) Submitting to NIOSH from the physician's files six sample chest radiographs which are considered properly classified by one or more individuals selected by NIOSH from the panel of B Readers. The six radiographs must consist of two without pneumoconiosis, two with simple pneumoconiosis, and two with complicated pneumoconiosis (these may be the same radiographs submitted for facility approval pursuant to §§ 37.43 and 37.44). The films will be returned to the physician. The classifications must be on the Chest Radiograph Classification Form (CDC/NIOSH 2.8); or (ii) Satisfactory completion, since June 11, 1970, of a course approved by NIOSH on the ILO International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses. (b) Final or B Readers: (1) Approval as a B Reader established prior to October 1, 1976, is hereby terminated. (2) Proficiency in evaluating chest radiographs for radiographic quality and in the use of the ILO Classification for interpreting chest radiographs for pneumoconiosis and other diseases must be demonstrated by those physicians who desire to be B Readers by taking and passing a specially-designed proficiency examination given on behalf of or by NIOSH at a time and place specified by NIOSH. (i) Each physician who desires to take the digital version of the examination will be provided a complete set of the current NIOSH-approved standard reference digital radiographs. (ii) Physicians who qualify under this provision need not be qualified under paragraph (a) of this section. (c) Physicians who wish to participate in the program must familiarize themselves with the necessary components for attainment of reliable classification of chest radiographs for the pneumoconioses 2 and apply using a Physician Application for Certification Form (CDC 2.12(E)). 2  NIOSH Safety and Health Topic, Chest Radiography: Radiographic Classification, http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/chestradiography/radiographic-classification.html. [81 FR 73284, Oct. 24, 2016]