What is the purpose of tank closure procedures in UST operations?

The purpose of tank closure procedures in UST operations is to safely decommission and remove a UST from service. When a tank is no longer needed or must be taken out of operation due to various reasons—such as regulatory compliance, safety concerns, or changes in business needs—proper closure procedures ensure that the tank is decommissioned in a way that minimizes risks to the environment and public health.

These procedures typically involve a series of steps designed to remove any remaining contents, clean the tank, and secure it according to environmental regulations. This ensures that any potential leaks or contaminations are addressed and that the site is ultimately safe for future use.

The other options provided do not accurately reflect the primary objective of closure procedures. Maintaining a tank in service focuses on operational continuity rather than safe decommissioning. Upgrading a tank relates to enhancing compliance with regulations while the tank is still in use, not its closure. Enhancing security pertains to safeguarding existing facilities rather than the specifics of properly shutting down and removing a tank from service.