Environmental Compliance Inspector Underground Storage Tanks (UST) Compliance 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of cathodic protection on an underground storage tank system?

Accepted Answer

To prevent corrosion of steel tank and piping components

Answer

To detect leaks in the tank bottom

Answer

To neutralize acidic soils around the tank

Answer

To improve structural integrity of concrete vaults

Question 2

Under 40 CFR Part 280, how long must UST operating records (such as release detection monitoring results) generally be retained?

Accepted Answer

At least 1 year for most records, with some records kept for the life of the system

Answer

Indefinitely for all records

Answer

3 years for all operational records

Answer

Only until the next state inspection

Question 3

Which of the following is an acceptable method of release detection for petroleum UST systems under federal regulations?

Accepted Answer

Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) with inventory control

Answer

Daily visual inspection of the tank exterior only

Answer

Weekly sniff testing by the owner

Answer

Annual pressure testing as the sole method

Question 4

What action must a UST owner or operator take within 24 hours of confirming a release from an underground storage tank?

Accepted Answer

Notify the implementing agency (state or local authority)

Answer

Complete a full site assessment

Answer

Hire a licensed remediation contractor

Answer

Submit a corrective action plan to EPA

Question 5

What is required when permanently closing an underground storage tank system?

Accepted Answer

Emptying and cleaning the tank, assessing the site for contamination, and removing or filling the tank in place

Answer

Simply shutting off the supply lines and padlocking the fill cap

Answer

Installing a vapor recovery cap on all openings

Answer

Converting the tank to a monitoring well

Question 6

Which of the following is an acceptable financial assurance mechanism for UST owners to demonstrate ability to pay for corrective action and third-party damages?

Accepted Answer

Petroleum storage tank trust fund established by the state

Answer

A verbal commitment from the business owner

Answer

Homeowner's insurance policy

Answer

Letter of intent from a bank

Question 7

What does 'free product' refer to in the context of a UST release investigation?

Accepted Answer

Liquid petroleum floating on the groundwater surface as a separate phase

Answer

Dissolved contaminants in groundwater above cleanup standards

Answer

Petroleum vapors detected in soil above background levels

Answer

Any petroleum product that has left the tank