Regulatory Compliance & EPA Standards Flashcards

Under the EPA's 2015 UST rule update, what change was made regarding operator training for Class A and Class B operators?

Answer: States were given flexibility to set their own Class A/B training requirements

The 2015 rule formally required states to implement operator training programs, with flexibility in how Class A and B requirements are structured at the state level.

A tank system installed in 1987 that has not been upgraded to meet 1998 EPA standards is considered what type of system?

Answer: Non-compliant UST subject to closure requirements

Any UST that did not meet the December 1998 upgrade deadline is a non-compliant system and must be properly closed per 40 CFR Part 280.

For a UST storing used oil, which regulatory framework primarily applies?

Answer: 40 CFR Part 279 (Used Oil Management Standards)

Used oil stored in USTs is managed under 40 CFR Part 279, which establishes used oil management standards rather than the general UST regulations.

Under EPA Release Reporting requirements, which scenario mandates immediate notification to the implementing agency?

Answer: Spilling more than 25 gallons of petroleum that is not immediately contained

Spills exceeding 25 gallons of petroleum that cannot be immediately contained must be reported to the implementing agency as a suspected release.

When an ATG (Automatic Tank Gauge) system is used for release detection, what is the EPA's required statistical test pass/fail standard for monthly monitoring?

Answer: 0.2 gallons per hour leak rate with 95% probability of detection and 5% probability of false alarm

EPA performance standards for ATGs require detecting a 0.2 gallon per hour leak with a 95% probability of detection and no more than a 5% probability of false alarm.

Under 40 CFR Part 280, cathodic protection systems on steel USTs must be tested by a qualified cathodic protection tester within what time frame after installation?

Answer: Within 6 months and then every 3 years thereafter

Impressed current cathodic protection must be tested within 6 months of installation and every 3 years thereafter to confirm adequate protection levels.

Which of the following is the EPA's definition of 'confirmed release' triggering corrective action obligations?

Answer: A release verified through sampling, site assessment, or investigation results

A confirmed release is one substantiated by investigation results such as soil or groundwater sampling data, not merely an alarm or complaint.