When must UST owners conduct regular inspections?

Regular inspections of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) are crucial for ensuring the safety and compliance of the storage system. The correct choice emphasizes that UST owners must adhere to a schedule that is established by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations. This is important because these regulations are designed to prevent leaks, spills, and other environmental hazards that can occur if storage tanks are not adequately monitored.

The DEP outlines specific intervals and procedures for inspections that reflect best practices in environmental safety and management. Following these scheduled inspections helps ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly, reducing risks to the environment and public health.

In contrast, conducting inspections only once a year may not suffice for detecting issues that could arise in shorter time frames, while performing inspections solely based on product deliveries or in response to complaints may lead to critical oversight of potential hazards. Thus, adherence to the DEP’s prescribed inspection schedule is fundamental to effective UST management.