California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

Automatic line leak detectors on underground piping with secondary containment must detect a leak of how many gallons per hour at 10 psi?

1. 2 gallons per hour

2. 3 gallons per hour

3. 5 gallons per hour

4. 10 gallons per hour

The correct answer is: 3 gallons per hour

The requirement for automatic line leak detectors on underground piping with secondary containment is specifically designed to ensure timely and effective detection of leaks that could potentially cause environmental harm. In California, as per the regulations, these detectors are calibrated to sense a leakage rate of 3 gallons per hour at a pressure of 10 psi. This standard is set to ensure that any small leaks can be identified quickly, allowing operators to take appropriate action before more significant contamination occurs. The 3 gallons per hour threshold is a balance between practical detection capabilities and the potential risk to the environment. It ensures that systems are sensitive enough to catch small leaks while still being feasible in terms of operational performance. Understanding this regulation helps UST inspectors ensure compliance with environmental laws, protecting both the surrounding ecosystem and public health.