As used in this chapter:
(1) "Board" means the State Board of Registration for Geologists.
(2) "Geologist" means a person with special knowledge of the science of geology, hydrology, geophysics, and related earth sciences and principles and methods of geological analysis acquired by professional education and practical experience.
(3) "Geologist-in-training" means a person who possesses the qualifications prescribed in Section 40-77-230 and who has been certified as a geologist-in-training.
(4) "Geology" means the science dealing with the earth and its history; investigation, prediction, and location of the materials and structures which compose it; the natural processes that cause change in the earth; and the applied science of utilizing knowledge of the earth and its constituent rocks, minerals, liquids, gases, and other materials for the benefit of mankind. This definition does not include a service or creative work, the adequate performance of which requires engineering education, training, and experience.
(5) "Public practice of geology" means the performance of geological service or work in the nature of consultation, investigation, surveys, evaluations, planning, mapping, and inspection of geologic work required for or supporting compliance with municipal, county, State of South Carolina, or federal regulations. The "public practice of geology" does not include the practice of engineering as defined in Chapter 21.
(6) "Registered professional geologist" means a person registered as a professional geologist by the board pursuant to Section 40-77-230.
(7) "Responsible charge of work" means the independent control and direction by the use of initiative, skill, and independent judgment of geological work or the supervision of geological work. Responsible charge of geologic teaching or research may be construed as responsible charge of important geological work.
HISTORY: 1986 Act No. 507, Section 1; 1998 Act No. 354, Section 1.
Structure South Carolina Code of Laws
Title 40 - Professions and Occupations
Section 40-77-5. Application of chapter; conflict of law.
Section 40-77-20. Definitions.
Section 40-77-30. Submission of evidence of qualification to practice; requirement to register.
Section 40-77-60. Promulgation of rules and regulations; code of ethics.
Section 40-77-80. Complaints and violations of chapter; investigation.
Section 40-77-90. Investigation results; procedures to conduct hearing.
Section 40-77-100. Cease and desist order, temporary restraining order, and other equitable relief.
Section 40-77-110. Revocation of registration; grounds.
Section 40-77-115. Jurisdiction of board.
Section 40-77-120. Sanctions and disciplinary actions.
Section 40-77-130. Denial of license; grounds same as for disciplinary actions.
Section 40-77-140. Denial of license; prior criminal record.
Section 40-77-150. Voluntary surrender of license.
Section 40-77-170. Payment of costs for investigation and prosecution.
Section 40-77-180. Collection and enforcement provisions.
Section 40-77-190. Confidentiality of proceedings; privileged communications.
Section 40-77-200. Unlicensed practice of geology; submission of false information; penalty.
Section 40-77-210. Injunctive relief.
Section 40-77-230. Eligibility for registration; qualifications; certificate of registration.
Section 40-77-240. Establishment of fees; examinations.
Section 40-77-250. Reexamination; continuing education authorized for license renewal.
Section 40-77-260. University teaching and research considered work experience.
Section 40-77-270. Registration eligibility of nonpracticing geologists.
Section 40-77-280. Persons licensed in other states or countries; reciprocity.
Section 40-77-300. Reinstatement of expired or suspended certificate; replacement certificates.