What is the main purpose of spill and overfill protection equipment?

The primary purpose of spill and overfill protection equipment is to minimize the potential for a release of hazardous materials, particularly in the context of underground storage tanks (USTs). This equipment is specifically designed to prevent spills from occurring during the filling process and to alert operators to overfill situations that could lead to leaks or spills. By preventing unauthorized or accidental releases, spill and overfill protection systems help to protect the environment, safeguard public health, and prevent damage to property. Furthermore, these measures are critical in maintaining the integrity of storage systems by managing the risks associated with the handling of potentially harmful substances.

While enhancing product storage, managing hazardous waste, and ensuring regulatory compliance are important considerations within the realm of UST management, they are not the primary focus of spill and overfill protection equipment. These systems are mainly targeted at reducing the risk of environmental contamination from spills and overfills, making option B the most accurate representation of their primary purpose.