(1) This part establishes a mandatory operator training program for three distinct classes of individuals who operate and maintain UST systems. The program is designed to prevent and mitigate releases from UST systems by ensuring that those individuals know how to properly operate and maintain those systems and respond to any spills, overfills, leaks, or releases from those systems.

(2) Owners and operators of an UST system must continuously comply with the requirements of this part from installation until permanent closure or change-in-service of the UST system, including during any period of temporary closure.