California Designated Operator Practice Exam

Lined piping trenches used as secondary containment must be covered and capable of supporting what?

1. Only lightweight vehicles

2. Vehicle traffic

3. Classified hazardous waste vehicles

4. Foot traffic only

The correct answer is: Vehicle traffic

The correct choice indicates that lined piping trenches used as secondary containment must be covered and capable of supporting vehicle traffic. This requirement is essential because these trenches need to be designed to withstand not just incidental foot traffic but also the weight of vehicles that may pass over them. Secondary containment is crucial in preventing leaks from stored hazardous materials, and the infrastructure must be robust enough to maintain effectiveness under various conditions, including the pressure and weight exerted by vehicles. Ensuring that these trenches can support vehicle traffic also reflects the need for safety protocols when handling hazardous materials, as it allows for maintenance activities and other essential operations to occur without compromising the integrity of the containment system. The necessity for these containers to support heavier loads emphasizes the importance of safety and regulatory compliance in areas where hazardous materials are stored and transported, ensuring that environmental protection measures remain intact even under stress.