What is the primary purpose of the Pennsylvania Underground Storage Tank (UST) program?

The primary purpose of the Pennsylvania Underground Storage Tank (UST) program is to ensure the safe operation and management of underground storage tanks. This program is essential for protecting public health and the environment by preventing leaks and spills that could contaminate soil and groundwater. By establishing regulations and guidelines, the program aims to minimize the risks associated with underground storage tanks, which often hold hazardous materials, such as petroleum products. Ensuring compliance with safety standards and monitoring tank operations are critical components of the program's mission, reinforcing its primary focus on safety and environmental protection.

Other choices reflect objectives that are not the main focus of the UST program. For example, regulating fuel prices or promoting alternative energy sources does not address the direct risks posed by underground storage tanks, which is the core concern of the UST program. Additionally, while construction oversight is related to tanks, it does not capture the ongoing management and safety aims that the UST program prioritizes.