August 2012: IDEM Offers Free Training for Underground Storage Tank Operators
Online training to help owners and operators meet the deadline of thirty (30) days after the effective date of the rule.
Within thirty (30) days of the effective date of the Underground Storage Tank Operator Training Requirements rulemaking (see next paragraph for specific dates), all underground storage tank (UST) facilities, most of which are gas stations, must designate individuals as Class A, Class B, and Class C Operators for various responsibilities of system operations. In order to be a Class A or Class B Operator, the required training must be taken to receive certification.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) is providing free training for UST owners and operators to help them meet the deadline. The training must be completed thirty (30) days after the effective date of the Underground Storage Tank Operator Training Requirements rulemaking. The anticipated effective date is December of 2012. Please note this date has been updated from the original August 8, 2012 deadline.
Each facility must have individuals certified in all three operator classes:
- Class A status is for individuals, such as owners, who hire or contract the personnel who are responsible for day to day maintenance and record keeping.
- Class B status is for individuals such as a full-time employee, who the facility owner has designated for the operation of all aspects of the system’s operation and maintenance.
- Class C status is for facility employees, like cashiers, who assist Class A and Class B operators in monitoring for problems and responding to emergencies.
IDEM inspectors will begin checking for proof of certification following the deadline to ensure all facilities have designated Class A, B, and C Operators and to ensure those Operators have taken the required online training.
IDEM’s Compliance & Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) is available to assist underground storage tank owners and operators with environmental requirements. CTAP provides free, confidential compliance assistance, including on-site visits. Please contact CTAP with any questions, toll free at (800) 988-7901 or directly at (317) 232-8174.
In compliance with the federal regulation, the Indiana Solid Waste Management Board has final adopted the Indiana Underground Storage Tank Operator Training Requirements Rule [PDF].
