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Operator Training Background

The Energy Policy Act of 2005 was passed by Congress. This federal regulation establishes training requirements for operators of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs):

  • Class A – Persons having primary responsibility for on-site operation and maintenance of UST Systems
  • Class B – Persons having daily on-site operation and maintenance of UST Systems
  • Class C – Daily on-site employees having primary responsibility for addressing emergencies presented by a spill or release from an UST System

Florida does not have legislative authority to require UST Operators to complete this training. In order to assist Florida UST Operators with compliance with this federal mandate; the Department is offering the following guidance. To simplify the training levels the department has decided to combine Class A and Class B Operator training.


When do designated Class A/B and Class C operators need to be trained?

The federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 requires all UST operators complete this by August 8, 2012. If the Florida Legislature later authorizes the Department to promulgate such a regulation, a phase in schedule will be implemented. Such a phase in schedule may be similar to EPA’s proposed revision to 40 CFR 280.242:

CRITERIA Date when operator training or comparable
examination is required
At least one UST installed between 12/22/1988 and 12/22/1998 August 8, 2014
All USTs at the facility were installed after 12/22/1998 August 8, 2015

Where to find operator training

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) is accepting operator training from EPA Region 4 approved Operator Training programs. However, there are differences between Florida’s UST program requirements and other state or third-party program requirements. Please see link to Class A/B Operator Training Supplement for specific FDEP requirements and Chapter 62-761, F.A.C. rules for Underground Storage Tank Systems.

FDEP Class A/B Operator Training/Supplemental Information


Free Online Training Courses from EPA Region 4 States


Third-party Online Training Courses

The following are examples of third-party online training courses which must meet or exceed EPA guidelines for Operator Training and the cost is variable. This list is not intended to be exhaustive. The Department does not endorse these training programs and expects the A/B operator to determine what program best meets the federal requirements. Third-Party Operator Training programs recognized by other state programs are also acceptable:


What to do once you’ve completed the training

After completing the the training, print the certificate and keep it with the facility records for inspector verification.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Underground Storage Tanks Operator Training Website: http://www.epa.gov/oust/fedlaws/optraing.htm

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Last updated: March 23, 2012

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