California Designated Operator Practice Exam

What is a primary requirement for newly constructed underground storage tanks?

1. They must be painted with a protective coat

2. They must perform tightness testing on-site before installation

3. They must not exceed certain weight limits

4. They must be monitored weekly

The correct answer is: They must perform tightness testing on-site before installation

The primary requirement for newly constructed underground storage tanks is that they must perform tightness testing on-site before installation. This testing is crucial to ensure that the tank is not leaking and can safely store volatile substances without contaminating the surrounding environment, especially groundwater. By conducting tightness testing, operators can identify any potential leaks or flaws in the tank's integrity before it is put into service, reducing the risk of environmental pollution and compliance issues in the future. This requirement is grounded in safety and regulatory standards aimed at protecting the environment and public health. Regular monitoring and adherence to these testing protocols are essential practices in the industry to maintain safe operations. Other considerations, such as protective coatings, weight limits, or frequency of monitoring, may be relevant to the overall maintenance and operation of existing tanks but do not represent the initial compliance and safety requirements at the time of construction.