§ 143-215.94QQ.  Training requirements for primary operators.

(a) The Department shall develop and implement a training program for primary operators. The training program shall provide instruction on the proper operation and maintenance of the underground storage tank system at the facility, principles of construction and safety, and all regulatory requirements associated with the underground storage tank system. The training may consist of a combination of on-site instruction and on-site testing, as well as online instruction and online testing. In order to satisfactorily complete the training, a primary operator shall, at a minimum, demonstrate all of the following:

(1) Knowledge of the requirements for spill prevention, overfill prevention, release detection, corrosion protection, emergency response, and product compatibility.

(2) Site-specific knowledge of the equipment used at the facility and the components of the underground storage tank system, and the methods of release detection and release prevention associated with the underground storage tank components.

(3) Knowledge of the requirements for demonstrating financial responsibility.

(4) Understanding of notification requirements associated with the underground storage tank system, including requirements for reporting releases and suspected releases.

(5) Understanding of the requirements for the temporary and permanent closure of underground storage tank systems.

(6) Knowledge of the emergency response operator training requirements, and the actions to be taken in response to emergencies and alarms.

(b) A primary operator shall be retrained if an inspection at the facility reveals that the underground storage tank system is not in substantial compliance with the requirements for: release detection, release prevention, financial responsibility, emergency response, suspected release reporting and investigation, the proximity of the underground storage tank system to water supply wells and surface water, and permitting. A primary operator who is required to be retrained shall complete the retraining within a reasonable time as determined by the Department. The retraining shall include training in the areas for which the underground storage tank system was not in compliance. The retraining may consist of a combination of on-site instruction and on-site testing, as well as in-class instruction and in-class testing, and, if available, the Department shall offer online instruction and online testing in lieu of in-class instruction and in-class testing. In-class instruction shall be provided by the Department at least once each quarter in each one of the regional offices of the Department. An operator required to be retrained pursuant to this subsection shall only be required to attend in-class instruction and in-class testing at the regional office closest to the facility for which the operator is designated.

(c) The primary operator shall maintain documentation to show that the operator has satisfactorily completed all training required by this section. (2010-154, s. 2.)