South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 131 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION-STATE BOARD OF REGISTRATION FOR GEOLOGISTS
South Carolina Code of Regulations – Chapter 131
Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation – State Board of Registration for Geologists
I. Overview
Chapter 131 of the South Carolina Code of Regulations governs the licensing, registration, practice, and professional conduct of geologists in the state. It is authorized by South Carolina Code § 40-22-30 et seq., which establishes the State Board of Registration for Geologists under the Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR).
The chapter ensures that individuals practicing geology meet educational, ethical, and professional standards to protect public health, safety, and welfare. It applies to anyone offering geological services for public or private projects, environmental assessments, or consulting.
II. Structure of Chapter 131
Chapter 131 is organized into several sections covering the following areas:
Definitions
Licensure and Registration Requirements
Examinations
Continuing Education
Professional Conduct and Ethics
Renewal and Fees
Disciplinary Actions
III. Key Regulatory Provisions
1. Definitions
The chapter defines key terms including:
Geologist: A person qualified by education and experience to practice geology, including investigation, analysis, and interpretation of earth materials, processes, and systems.
Practice of Geology: Applying geological principles for surveying, mapping, site assessment, environmental studies, hydrogeology, and consulting.
Board: Refers to the State Board of Registration for Geologists, which regulates licensing, examinations, and enforcement.
2. Licensure and Registration Requirements
Eligibility to practice as a professional geologist includes:
Education:
A bachelor’s degree in geology or a closely related science from an accredited program.
Coursework must cover core geological subjects such as mineralogy, petrology, stratigraphy, and hydrogeology.
Experience:
Minimum four years of professional experience under the supervision of a licensed geologist.
Experience must demonstrate practical application of geological principles.
Examinations:
Applicants must pass the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam.
After gaining the required experience, applicants must pass the Principles and Practice of Geology (PG) exam.
Application:
Must submit proof of education, references from supervising geologists, and evidence of relevant work experience.
Licensure by Reciprocity:
Applicants licensed in other states may apply for registration in South Carolina if their credentials meet or exceed South Carolina standards.
3. Examinations
Fundamentals of Geology (FG): Covers basic principles, methods, and techniques in geology.
Principles and Practice of Geology (PG): Covers applied geology, ethics, professional practice, and state-specific regulations.
Examinations are administered under Board supervision and results determine eligibility for licensure.
4. Continuing Education
Licensed geologists must complete mandatory continuing education to maintain licensure.
Continuing education ensures professionals stay updated with new techniques, standards, and ethical practices.
The Board establishes hour requirements, approved courses, and reporting procedures.
5. Professional Conduct and Ethics
The regulations establish a code of ethics for practicing geologists:
Geologists must protect public health, safety, and welfare in their professional work.
Must avoid misrepresentation of qualifications, experience, or the results of geological studies.
Must maintain confidentiality where appropriate and provide accurate, scientifically valid work.
Conflicts of interest must be disclosed and avoided.
Unethical conduct may include:
Falsifying data or reports
Practicing without a license
Assisting unlicensed individuals in offering geological services
6. Renewal and Fees
Licenses are renewable every two years (biennially).
Renewal requires:
Completion of continuing education
Payment of the renewal fee
Verification of compliance with all regulations
Failure to renew may result in suspension or revocation of the license.
7. Disciplinary Actions
The Board may impose discipline for violations of the regulations or statutes:
Types of discipline:
Reprimand
Probation
Suspension
Revocation of license
Grounds for discipline include:
Practicing geology without a license
Fraud or misrepresentation in obtaining licensure
Negligence or misconduct in professional work
Violations of the Board’s code of ethics
The Board conducts hearings and provides an opportunity for licensees to respond before taking action.
IV. Practical Implications
Protection of the public: Only qualified geologists are allowed to offer services to ensure safety and accuracy.
Professional accountability: Continuing education, licensing, and ethical rules maintain high professional standards.
Compliance requirement: Firms employing geologists must ensure employees are properly licensed under South Carolina law.
V. Summary
Chapter 131 of the South Carolina Code of Regulations establishes:
Licensing requirements based on education, experience, and examinations.
Ethical standards and professional conduct for geologists.
Continuing education and renewal requirements to maintain professional competence.
Disciplinary procedures to enforce compliance and protect the public.
The regulations ensure that geologists in South Carolina are competent, accountable, and operate in the public interest.
RELATED Blog
comments