How long must release detection records be maintained?

Release detection records must be maintained for a period of three years. This requirement is rooted in the need for accountability and compliance within the underground storage tank (UST) program. Keeping these records for a minimum of three years ensures that there is adequate documentation available for inspections and regulatory reviews, as well as for verifying the integrity and performance of the release detection systems in place.

This retention period allows regulatory agencies to assess whether the UST operators are complying with the necessary safety and environmental standards, which helps prevent potential contamination incidents. It also provides a historical record of the operation of the tanks, which can be crucial if any issues arise in the future related to leaks or poor performance of detection systems.

Maintaining these records for less than three years would not provide sufficient time to evaluate past compliance or identify trends that could indicate an increasing risk of release, thus undermining the overall aim of monitoring and protecting public health and the environment.