California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

If a release has occurred from a single-walled tank, can the tank be lined?

1. No, not if a release has occurred

2. Yes, if it has been lined before

3. Yes, if the tank owner can demonstrate it will provide continued containment

4. Yes, if the tank is less than 10,000 gallons

The correct answer is: Yes, if the tank owner can demonstrate it will provide continued containment

The assertion that a single-walled tank can be lined after a release has occurred is contingent upon the ability of the tank owner to demonstrate that the lining will effectively provide continued containment. This approach considers both the integrity of the existing tank and the efficacy of the new lining material. When a release occurs, it indicates that there has been a breach in containment, which raises concerns about environmental safety and regulatory compliance. By lining the tank, the intent is to restore its ability to contain hazardous materials safely. The lining must be compatible with the stored products, durable enough to withstand environmental conditions, and installed correctly to ensure that it can prevent further releases. If the tank owner can present sufficient evidence that the new lining will create a reliable barrier, it aligns with regulatory standards designed to mitigate risks associated with groundwater contamination and environmental harm. Therefore, demonstrating the effectiveness of the lining plays a crucial role in making this solution viable as a response to a previous release. The other options are not viable pathways because they either incorrectly state absolute prohibitions or conditions that do not account for the technical feasibility of the repair and containment strategy being pursued through the lining process.