(1) Training of UST system operators must be performed by the department or by a third-party trainer approved by the department pursuant to ARM 17.56.1505, except that a trained Class A or B operator also may train a Class C operator.

(2) Class A operators must be trained in the following:

(a) general knowledge of underground storage tank system requirements so that the operator can make informed decisions regarding compliance and can ensure that appropriate persons are meeting the operation, maintenance, and recordkeeping requirements provided in ARM Title 17, chapter 56. The general knowledge must include, but is not limited to, the following:

(i) spill prevention;

(ii) overfill prevention;

(iii) release detection;

(iv) corrosion protection;

(v) emergency response;

(vi) product compatibility; and

(vii) reporting and recordkeeping requirements;

(b) financial responsibility documentation requirements;

(c) notification requirements;

(d) release and suspected release reporting;

(e) temporary and permanent closure requirements;

(f) operator training requirements; and

(g) all the requirements applicable to Class B and C operators.

(3) Class B operators must be trained in the following aspects of the UST system that is under their responsibility:

(a) components of UST systems;

(b) materials used in UST system components;

(c) methods of release detection and release prevention applied to UST components;

(d) operation, maintenance, and recordkeeping requirements provided in ARM Title 17, chapter 56 including, but not limited to:

(i) spill prevention;

(ii) overfill prevention;

(iii) release detection;

(iv) corrosion protection;

(v) emergency response;

(vi) product compatibility; and

(vii) reporting and recordkeeping requirements; and

(e) all the requirements applicable to Class C operators.

(4) Class C operators must be trained in the following aspects of the UST system that is under their responsibility:

(a) emergency shut-down procedures;

(b) how to respond to a surface spill; and

(c) who to contact in the event of a surface spill, suspected release, equipment alarm or equipment malfunction, and how to contact them.

(5) Class A and B operators who choose department-sponsored training shall pass a department-administered test with at least an 80 percent score.

(6) Class C operators who:

(a) choose department-approved training, shall pass a department-administered test with at least an 80 percent score; or

(b) choose training by a trained Class A or B operator, shall successfully complete a practical demonstration or other evaluation procedure determined to be acceptable by the department.