How long must owners and operators maintain records of release detection operability testing?

The requirement for owners and operators to maintain records of release detection operability testing for a minimum of three years aligns with regulatory standards designed to ensure proper monitoring and compliance. Keeping these records for three years provides a sufficient timeframe for tracking performance and identifying any potential issues with the release detection systems over time. This duration allows for review and analysis of trends in performance, which is essential for maintaining environmental safety and ensuring that any leaks or malfunctions are promptly detected and addressed.

By retaining records for this period, owners and operators can demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements, support potential audits, and provide a historical record of testing and maintenance activities that can be crucial for environmental assessments. Thus, the three-year record retention aligns with regulatory goals of prevention and accountability in UST management.