California Designated Operator Practice Exam

What type of program must be implemented if an underground storage tank is within 1,000 feet of a public drinking water well?

1. Basic leak monitoring

2. Standard monitoring program

3. Enhanced Leak Detection (ELD)

4. Regular maintenance program

The correct answer is: Enhanced Leak Detection (ELD)

When an underground storage tank is located within 1,000 feet of a public drinking water well, an Enhanced Leak Detection (ELD) program must be implemented. The rationale behind this requirement is to ensure maximum protection of public drinking water sources from potential contamination due to leaks or spills from the storage tank. ELD programs are designed to provide advanced leak detection capabilities that go beyond basic monitoring. They incorporate technologies and methodologies that enable earlier and more accurate detection of leaks, thereby minimizing the risk to the surrounding environment and water supply. This level of monitoring is crucial in areas near drinking water sources where any leakage could pose serious health risks to the community. In contrast, basic leak monitoring and standard monitoring programs may not offer the same level of vigilance or advanced technology required to protect such sensitive areas. Regular maintenance programs, while important for the overall upkeep of the tanks, do not specifically focus on leak detection and response measures, which are essential in close proximity to drinking water wells. Therefore, the need for Enhanced Leak Detection is critical in this context.