California Designated Operator Practice Exam

Which type of piping installed post-July 1, 1987 must have secondary containment?

1. Pressure relief piping

2. Vapor recovery piping

3. All underground piping

4. Tank riser piping

The correct answer is: All underground piping

The requirement for secondary containment for underground piping installed post-July 1, 1987, is rooted in regulations that aim to prevent environmental contamination from leaks or spills. Secondary containment systems are designed to catch any potential leaks from the primary piping, ensuring that hazardous materials do not escape into the surrounding environment. This requirement applies specifically to all underground piping because underground systems are at a higher risk of corrosion, damage, and unnoticed leaks due to their burial beneath the surface. By mandating secondary containment for all underground piping, the regulations ensure an additional layer of protection for soil and groundwater, which are critical to environmental health. In contrast, other types of piping such as pressure relief, vapor recovery, or tank riser piping may have different regulations or levels of containment based on their specific uses or locations. The broad application to all underground piping installed after the cutoff date reflects a proactive approach to maintain safety and environmental standards.