(1) The department may issue a temporary certificate, for up to one year, to fill an operator in responsible charge position or lead operator of a shift position when the designated certified operator unexpectedly vacates the position.

(2) An owner may request a temporary certificate for an individual who meets, or is within six months of meeting, the certification requirements in Table 2 for the level of temporary certification being requested. A temporary certificate request must include:

(a) A cover letter explaining why the temporary certificate is needed, the facility name, and the name of the operator to be given the temporary certification.

(b) An application for the operator named in the cover letter.

(c) An application fee.

(3) A temporary certificate:

(a) May not exceed a one-year period.

(b) Is not renewable.

(c) Cannot be transferred to another individual.

(d) Expires either on the date specified, when the designated temporary operator passes the appropriate exam, or within one year of issuance, whichever comes first.