What action should be taken by a UST operator if a leak is detected?

When a leak is detected in an underground storage tank (UST) system, the appropriate action is to report it to the regulatory authority immediately. This is crucial because leaks can pose serious environmental hazards and public safety risks. Immediate reporting triggers investigation and remediation processes designed to mitigate the impact of the leak, protect groundwater and soil quality, and minimize the risk of contamination.

Regulatory authorities have established protocols for handling leak reports that ensure proper evaluation and response. This includes assessing the leak's severity, potential impacts, and necessary remedial actions. By reporting the leak promptly, UST operators fulfill their legal obligations and contribute to environmental protection efforts.

Other approaches, such as ignoring the leak or attempting to fix it independently without proper expertise, neglect the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks that mandate oversight by trained professionals. Documenting the leak while continuing operations could exacerbate the situation and lead to greater liabilities or environmental damages, making immediate reporting the most responsible course of action.