What kind of materials are classified as "regulated substances" for USTs?

Regulated substances for underground storage tanks (USTs) encompass specific categories of materials that are typically at a higher risk of causing environmental contamination. These include petroleum products—such as gasoline, diesel, and other hydrocarbons—as well as hazardous substances as defined by regulation.

The classification of these materials as regulated substances aligns with federal and state environmental protection laws aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment from the potential hazards associated with leaks, spills, or improper handling. By identifying petroleum products and hazardous substances as regulated, regulatory agencies can enforce compliance measures that minimize environmental risks.

In contrast, hazardous waste materials, water, non-regulated liquids, and general construction materials do not fall under the same stringent guidelines as regulated substances, which emphasizes the specific threat posed by petroleum and hazardous chemicals to both human health and ecological systems.