California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

What is the maximum permissible false alarm percentage for automatic line leak detectors?

1. 2%

2. 5%

3. 10%

4. 1%

The correct answer is: 5%

The maximum permissible false alarm percentage for automatic line leak detectors is 5%. This figure is established to balance the need for sensitive detection of leaks while minimizing the occurrence of false alarms that can lead to unnecessary interruptions, costs, and maintenance operations. A percentage of 5% allows the system to effectively monitor and enhance safety without overwhelming operators with alerts that may not indicate an actual problem. Automatic line leak detectors are essential for ensuring the integrity of underground storage tanks, and setting the false alarm threshold at this level helps maintain a reliable balance between safety and operational efficiency. While lower percentages are indeed more conservative in terms of potential false alarms, they could also lead to increased operational challenges, thereby affecting the overall efficiency of monitoring systems.