California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

Temporary closure is appropriate for which of the following situations?

1. The tank system is empty and will be removed from service indefinitely

2. The tank system is unable to meet compliance requirements and will be removed

3. The tank system has ceased to store hazardous substances but will be used within the next 12 consecutive months

4. The tank system has been red-tagged

The correct answer is: The tank system has ceased to store hazardous substances but will be used within the next 12 consecutive months

Temporary closure is appropriate when a tank system has ceased to store hazardous substances but is expected to be utilized again within the next 12 consecutive months. This scenario allows the operator to maintain the tank system in a state that is prepared for potential reactivation, rather than going through the more definitive and costly steps needed for permanent closure. It is important to note that during this period, the operator must ensure the tank system meets all necessary environmental and safety regulations, even though it is not currently in active use. In contrast, when a tank system is empty and will be removed from service indefinitely, or if it is unable to meet compliance requirements and will be removed, the circumstances indicate a more permanent status. Similarly, a tank system that has been red-tagged suggests it has been found to be in non-compliance or unsafe conditions, often necessitating immediate action rather than a temporary status. Therefore, option C represents a situation where the tank system can be kept in a temporary state of closure, while the others imply more permanent resolutions are required.