California ICC UST Service Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of Motorized Vehicle Fuel Tanks?

1. They only store waste oil

2. They must be monitored for leaks

3. They cannot have secondary containment

4. They hold gasoline exclusively

The correct answer is: They must be monitored for leaks

Motorized vehicle fuel tanks must be monitored for leaks because fuel storage systems pose environmental risks and have the potential to cause soil and groundwater contamination. Regular monitoring ensures any leaks or breaches in the tank's structural integrity can be detected quickly, allowing for prompt remedial action, which is essential for compliance with environmental regulations and to safeguard public health. Monitoring systems may include automatic leak detection, regular inspections, and testing protocols that are mandated by both state and federal regulations. Effective monitoring helps mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances, such as gasoline and diesel fuels, which are commonly stored in these tanks. Therefore, the focus on leak detection plays a vital role in overall fuel tank management practices and environmental protection. Other options present incorrect or misleading characteristics of motorized vehicle fuel tanks. For instance, while they can store various types of fuel, the notion that they only store waste oil or hold gasoline exclusively is inaccurate. Additionally, regulations typically require secondary containment systems for new installations to further minimize the risk of leaks.