What is the primary indicator of a potential leak in a UST?

The primary indicator of a potential leak in a UST is a decline in product inventory without a corresponding increase in sales. This situation typically suggests that fuel is disappearing from the tank without being sold, which can be a strong indication of leakage. Monitoring inventory levels is a critical part of ensuring the integrity of storage tanks; a consistent and unexplained drop in the amount of product stored can signal that there is a problem, such as a leak in the tanks or piping.

In a well-managed UST system, inventory levels should correspond closely with sales data. When discrepancies arise, it prompts further investigation to identify potential issues before they lead to environmental contamination or regulatory violations. Thus, the ability to spot this variance is essential for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring safety.