What role do secondary containment systems play in UST management?

Secondary containment systems play a crucial role in the management of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) by offering an additional layer of protection designed specifically to prevent spills and leaks from reaching the environment. Their primary function is to capture any leaked substances from the primary tank, thereby mitigating the risk of soil and groundwater contamination.

By providing this extra barrier, secondary containment systems ensure that if any failure occurs in the primary tank, the contaminants are contained within the secondary system, allowing for safe handling and remediation procedures. This is especially important in California, where strict environmental regulations require robust measures to protect public health and the ecosystem from potential hazards associated with stored hazardous materials.

The other roles mentioned in the options do not align with the primary function of secondary containment systems. While aesthetic considerations, product storage, and leak detection are relevant topics in UST management, they do not reflect the critical safety and environmental protection goals served by secondary containment.