California UST System Operator Practice Test

Containment structures play a crucial role in underground storage tank (UST) systems by providing secondary containment to prevent leaks and spills from reaching the environment. This is essential for safeguarding against potential contamination of soil and groundwater, which could occur if a primary tank were to fail or leak. The containment structures are designed to hold any leaked substances, thereby acting as an additional barrier between the hazardous materials and the surrounding environment. This secondary protection is mandated by regulations to ensure the integrity of UST systems and mitigate environmental risks, underscoring the importance of such structures in effective UST management and compliance with safety standards.

In contrast, while supporting tank weight, facilitating ventilation, or connecting to fuel dispensers may be associated with various aspects of UST design and operation, they do not encompass the primary function of containment structures. The main purpose of these structures distinctly centers around leak prevention and environmental protection.