California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT included in the hierarchy of secondary containment testing protocols?

1. Manufacturers guideline or standards

2. An applicable method specified in industry code or engineering standard

3. A test method approved by a registered professional engineer

4. A protocol written by the local agency

The correct answer is: A protocol written by the local agency

The hierarchy of secondary containment testing protocols is crucial in ensuring the environmental safety and integrity of underground storage tanks (USTs). The correct answer highlights that a protocol written by the local agency is not part of this established hierarchy. In the context of secondary containment testing, the protocols are typically derived from standardized guidelines that are broadly recognized across the industry to maintain consistency and reliability in testing methods. These include manufacturers' guidelines or standards, which provide specific instructions tailored to the organization's equipment. Additionally, applicable methods specified in industry codes or engineering standards are essential as they outline the required measures to verify containment system effectiveness. A test method approved by a registered professional engineer also reinforces the reliability of the testing approach, aligning it with engineering best practices and legal requirements. Local agency protocols may vary greatly, lacking the consistency and rigor found in the established hierarchy; thus, they are not part of the standardized protocols. This distinction is important for maintaining uniform testing methods that ensure safety and compliance across different jurisdictions.