What role does the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) play in UST regulation?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is tasked with enforcing and overseeing compliance with federal regulations regarding underground storage tanks (USTs). This role is critical because USTs can pose significant environmental risks, particularly concerning leaks that can contaminate soil and groundwater. The EPA establishes regulations that set standards for the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of USTs to mitigate these risks. They are also responsible for issuing guidelines and monitoring the implementation of these regulations by tank owners and operators to ensure that they comply with federal environmental laws. This oversight is essential in protecting public health and the environment from potential hazards associated with USTs.