Training inspectors and operators to prevent groundwater contamination from petroleum leaks

Petroleum Storage Tank Inspector/Operator Training Programs (NYSDEC)

Equipment has improved since the 1970s, but operation and maintenance hasn’t always kept pace. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) tapped our team to produce training manuals, workshops, and exams for tank inspectors and operators that reflects today’s challenges and expectations.

Drawing on our expertise in fuel system design and compliance, we worked with NYSDEC to develop clear, step-by-step guides to proper operation and inspections. We then developed an online exam to assess UST operator competencies, plus a three-day workshop and final proficiency exam for inspectors.

Underground tanks are everywhere—gas stations, hospitals, bus garages, public works, and more—and operators possess a wide range of training and experience. We made our training manuals comprehensive, but colorful and easy to read. Exam questions had to be challenging enough to assess competency, yet fair and easy to understand. Our process incorporated metrics from exam experts and beta testing, as well as input from the regulated community and industry stakeholders.

With this new training, inspectors and operators are better prepared to prevent leaks and spills—keeping our environment and communities safer and healthier.