What is secondary containment in the context of USTs?

Secondary containment refers to a preventative measure designed to contain leaks or spills that may occur from the primary tank. In the context of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs), secondary containment systems provide an additional layer of protection by capturing any released materials, thereby minimizing the risk of environmental contamination. This containment can involve a double-walled tank design or an external containment structure that surrounds the primary tank. Regulations often require secondary containment for USTs to ensure that any leaks are contained and do not seep into surrounding soil or groundwater.

The other options relate to different aspects of UST management. For instance, leak detection methods are essential, but they play a different role by identifying issues rather than preventing them. Similarly, financial assurance mechanisms are important for financial responsibility regarding cleanup operations but do not directly relate to the physical containment of leaks. Monitoring tank integrity is crucial for maintenance and operational safety but does not function as a containment strategy. Hence, the definition clearly hinges on the purpose of secondary containment as a safeguard against potential leaks from the primary storage system.