Which types of tanks require secondary containment?

Which types of tanks require secondary containment?

• A. Only aboveground storage tanks
• B. All new and upgraded UST systems storing hazardous substances
• C. Only tanks considered high-risk
• D. Only tanks installed before 1990

Answer: (B)

Secondary containment is a critical safety measure designed to prevent the release of hazardous substances into the environment. In New York State and under federal regulations, all new and upgraded underground storage tank (UST) systems that store hazardous substances are required to have secondary containment. This ensures that if a leak or spill occurs, the hazardous material is contained and can be managed effectively, reducing the risk of environmental contamination. The requirement for secondary containment applies universally to newly installed or modified systems storing regulated substances, as this is an important measure for protecting groundwater and surrounding ecosystems. It reflects a proactive approach to environmental safety rather than a reactive one, as it anticipates the potential for leaks and provides a barrier to prevent those leaks from escaping into the environment. While aboveground storage tanks and high-risk tanks may also have specific secondary containment requirements depending on their design and regulation, the comprehensive requirement for all new and upgraded UST systems clearly encompasses a broader scope, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public health and the environment from hazardous substances.

Secondary containment is a critical safety measure designed to prevent the release of hazardous substances into the environment. In New York State and under federal regulations, all new and upgraded underground storage tank (UST) systems that store hazardous substances are required to have secondary containment. This ensures that if a leak or spill occurs, the hazardous material is contained and can be managed effectively, reducing the risk of environmental contamination.

The requirement for secondary containment applies universally to newly installed or modified systems storing regulated substances, as this is an important measure for protecting groundwater and surrounding ecosystems. It reflects a proactive approach to environmental safety rather than a reactive one, as it anticipates the potential for leaks and provides a barrier to prevent those leaks from escaping into the environment.

While aboveground storage tanks and high-risk tanks may also have specific secondary containment requirements depending on their design and regulation, the comprehensive requirement for all new and upgraded UST systems clearly encompasses a broader scope, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding public health and the environment from hazardous substances.