California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

Which of the following is an essential requirement for UST systems under California law?

1. To be constructed entirely of metal

2. To have automatic shut-off valves

3. To have secondary containment

4. To be labeled with the manufacturer's name only

The correct answer is: To have secondary containment

The essential requirement for UST systems under California law is that they must have secondary containment. Secondary containment serves as an additional layer of protection against leaks and spills from the primary tank. This is crucial for preventing environmental contamination and ensuring that any leaked substances are contained and managed properly. Secondary containment systems are designed to capture leaks before they can escape into the surrounding environment, which is vital for protecting soil and groundwater resources. California regulations emphasize the importance of safety and environmental protection, making secondary containment a non-negotiable component of UST systems. In contrast, while automatic shut-off valves are beneficial for safety and leak prevention, they are not universally mandated for all UST systems in California. Furthermore, tanks constructed entirely of metal may not be a requirement, as there are other materials, such as fiberglass, that can also be compliant, depending on the design and application. Lastly, while proper labeling is important, it does not carry the same weight of critical safety concern as ensuring that systems are equipped with secondary containment.