California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

Which of the following is exempt from secondary containment testing?

1. UDCs

2. Secondary piping

3. Monitored turbine sumps

4. Hydrostatically monitored annular space

The correct answer is: Hydrostatically monitored annular space

The correct answer identifies that hydrostatically monitored annular spaces are exempt from secondary containment testing due to the monitoring capabilities that they possess. These spaces, which typically exist between two barriers (like the inner and outer walls of a tank), are designed to monitor for leaks through pressure measurements, thereby ensuring that any potential spill or leakage is detected promptly without requiring the same rigorous testing protocols that other types of containment must undergo. Hydrostatically monitored annular spaces have built-in monitoring systems that check for leaks continuously, which satisfies regulatory requirements for leak detection. Consequently, they do not necessitate the same frequency of testing as other containment systems such as underground storage tanks or secondary piping, which rely on testing for integrity checks rather than ongoing monitoring. In contrast, other options such as UDCs, secondary piping, and monitored turbine sumps do not typically incorporate these proactive monitoring features to the same extent and therefore must undergo regular secondary containment testing to meet safety and compliance standards.