What significant regulatory change affecting USTs occurred in 2015?

The significant regulatory change affecting Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) in 2015 was the requirement for secondary containment for newly installed tanks. This change was part of an effort to enhance the safety and environmental protection standards associated with USTs. Secondary containment systems are designed to prevent leaks and spills from escaping into the surrounding environment, thus minimizing the risk of soil and groundwater contamination. This regulation is critical because it ensures that even if a primary tank fails, the secondary containment will catch any leaked materials, providing an additional layer of protection.

In contrast, while certification for operators and labeling requirements are important regulatory aspects, they did not change specifically in 2015. Furthermore, the banning of underground storage altogether is not a regulatory action that was implemented, as USTs remain necessary for many operations. The focus on secondary containment illustrates the evolving regulatory landscape aimed at improving environmental safety concerning petroleum and hazardous substance storage.