California UST System Operator Practice Test

Which of the following is included in containment sumps?

1. Under-Dispenser Containment

2. Groundwater Monitoring Wells

3. Leak Detection Pits

4. Storage Tank Fields

The correct answer is: Under-Dispenser Containment

Containment sumps are designed to prevent spills and leaks from entering the environment by containing any liquid that escapes from storage systems, specifically underground storage tanks (USTs). Under-dispenser containment is a vital component of this system, as it captures any potential leaks or spills that may occur during the refueling process at dispensers. The under-dispenser containment is usually positioned beneath fuel dispensers to intercept leaks from the dispenser itself, ensuring that fuel does not escape into the surrounding soil or groundwater. This containment is critical for environmental protection and is often mandated by regulatory agencies to minimize environmental risks and ensure compliance with safety standards. Other choices such as groundwater monitoring wells, leak detection pits, and storage tank fields serve different functions. Groundwater monitoring wells track the quality of the groundwater, while leak detection pits are used for detecting leaks rather than containing them. Storage tank fields refer to the broader area where multiple tanks are stored and do not specifically pertain to the containment of spills. Thus, under-dispenser containment is the correct inclusion among the options listed for containment sumps.