An underground storage tank (UST) is defined by law as “any one or combination of tanks, including pipes connected thereto, that is used for the storage of hazardous substances and that is substantially or totally beneath the surface of the ground.” The California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has put forth regulations for the construction, installation, operation, repairs, and removal of USTs or UST systems to protect public health and safety, the environment, and the waters of the state. UC Merced operates three underground storage tanks (USTs) for the safe storage of petroleum products. The USTs at UC Merced are permitted by the Merced County Division of Environmental Health (MCDEH).
Annual Testing, Inspection, and Documentation
The UST system is annually tested and inspected as a part of the “Annual Monitoring Certification” test. The UST system is annually tested by a third-party tank testing company and is inspected by MCDEH. In preparation for the annual inspection, records pertaining to the annual monitoring certification test shall be kept onsite for the MCDEH inspector(s) to review. The following documents shall be maintained onsite:
- Annual Monitoring Certification test reports
- Spill Container test reports
- Secondary Containment (SB989) test reports
- Overfill Prevention Equipment Inspection Form
- State-certified Designated UST Operator (DO) Monthly Inspection Reports
- DO Employee Training Forms
Report Spills
Report any petroleum product spill that cannot be completely contained and cleaned up, regardless of amount, if it discharges into a storm drain, canals, ponds, lakes, or any outdoor soil or paved surface by contacting the EH&S Environmental Programs Manager.
Please contact the EH&S Environmental Programs Manager for consultations regarding the construction, installation, operation, repairs, and removal of USTs or UST systems.
Rules, Regulations and Policies
- UST Program Statues and Regulations
- UST Cleanup Fund Regulations
- Tank Tester Licensing Regulations
