| Verified Practice Questions, Answers & Detailed Explanations | Underground Storage
Tank Systems Exam Prep
SECTION 1: SITE PREPARATION AND PRE-INSTALLATION PLANNING (Questions 1–40)
Question 1
Which document is required to obtain permits, solicit bids, and provide precise guidance for
UST installers?
A) A verbal work order from the owner
B) Written plans and specifications
C) A manufacturer’s warranty card
D) A delivery receipt
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
Written plans are required to obtain permits, solicit bids, and provide precise guidance for installers.
They describe the property, identify tank size and location, indicate liquids to be stored, and show
dispenser and piping locations.
Question 2
What is one of the most significant causes of leaks in underground liquid storage systems?
A) Excessive rainfall
B) Improper installation
C) Overly frequent inventory checks
D) Using double-walled tanks
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
Improper installation is consistently identified as one of the most significant causes of leaks in
,underground liquid storage systems. Proper site preparation, bedding, and backfill are critical to
preventing premature failure.
Question 3
A UST site is located in an area with a high water table. What is the most appropriate design
consideration?
A) Ignore groundwater because tanks are watertight
B) Anchor the tank to resist hydrostatic uplift forces
C) Install the tank at a shallower depth
D) Remove the water table before installation
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
Tanks in high groundwater or flood-prone areas must be anchored or secured by approved means to
resist movement from hydrostatic forces. Nonmetallic or insulated metallic straps are acceptable
anchoring methods.
Question 4
Where a tank is exposed to vehicular impact, what protection is required?
A) No protection is necessary
B) Protection shall be provided to prevent damage to the tank
C) The tank must be painted yellow
D) The tank must be emptied daily
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
NFPA 30 and API RP 1615 require impact protection where tanks are exposed to vehicular traffic,
such as bollards or reinforced concrete.
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,Question 5
What is the purpose of a pre-installation site meeting?
A) To finalize the invoice
B) To coordinate excavation, delivery, and installation sequencing among all parties
C) To dismiss the installation crew
D) To test the tank before delivery
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
Pre-installation meetings align the owner, excavator, installer, and tank manufacturer on schedule,
access, safety, and inspection points before work begins.
Question 6
Which reference standard is specifically titled “Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage
Systems”?
A) NFPA 30
B) API RP 1615
C) PEI/RP 100
D) 40 CFR 280
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
API RP 1615 is the American Petroleum Institute’s recommended practice specifically for the
installation of underground petroleum storage systems.
Question 7
Which PEI document provides recommended practices for the installation of underground
liquid storage systems?
A) PEI/RP 100
B) PEI/RP 200
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, C) PEI/RP 300
D) PEI/RP 400
Answer
Answer: A
Rationale
PEI/RP 100 is the Petroleum Equipment Institute’s recommended practice for installation of
underground liquid storage systems, widely referenced by ICC U1 exam materials.
Question 8
What should be verified about the tank before it leaves the manufacturer or distributor?
A) That it is painted the correct color
B) That it matches the approved plans, is undamaged, and has correct fittings
C) That it is full of fuel
D) That it has been buried once before
Answer
Answer: B
Rationale
Pre-delivery verification ensures the tank matches specifications, is free of damage, and has the
correct fittings and coatings before excavation and placement.
Question 9
Property clearances for USTs are primarily intended to:
A) Reduce installation cost
B) Protect adjacent structures, utilities, and water sources
C) Increase tank capacity
D) Simplify inventory control
Answer
Answer: B
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