Which agency must certify Phase I and II vapor recovery systems installed in California?

• A. Local air district
• B. Registered professional engineer
• C. CARB
• D. Local CUPA

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is the California Air Resources Board (CARB). CARB plays a crucial role in regulating air quality and emissions in California, including the certification of vapor recovery systems. Phase I and Phase II vapor recovery systems are designed to capture vapors released during fuel transfer and vehicle refueling to minimize air pollution.

By mandating that these systems be certified by CARB, the state ensures that they meet specific performance standards and comply with regulations aimed at reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful emissions. This certification also helps maintain consistency and reliability across all installations in California, thereby contributing to overall air quality improvement.

The local air district, registered professional engineers, and local Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPAs) do have roles in enforcing regulations and ensuring compliance, but they do not have the authority to certify these systems as CARB does. This centralization of certification helps streamline the process and align it with broader environmental goals set by California law.