Section 172.20  Three Year Phase-In

a)         PECLA Phase-In

The rules implementing PECLA will be adopted over a 3-year period. This initial adoption establishes licensure requirements, sets fees for licensure, requires certified employees to possess required identification cards, and outlines disciplinary procedures that will be taken against UST contractors that violate this Part or 41 Ill. Adm. Code 170 (Storage, Transportation, Sale and Use of Petroleum and Other Regulated Substances).  Future additions to this Part will establish training and testing requirements for licensees and will govern the providers of that training and testing.

b)         Licensure

All contractors performing UST work in Illinois must hold a PECLA license for each module in which work is performed and will be required to meet the standards for that work module established by 41 Ill. Adm. Code 170 and the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.120 (2002, no later amendments or editions included). The OSHA requirements are available from United States Department of Labor, OSHA, 230 South Dearborn Street, Room 3244, Chicago IL, (312)353-2220.

c)         New Standards for UST Work Activity

By calendar year 2006, the OSFM plans to develop and adopt as rule Illinois specific standards for contractors performing UST activities.  Until this adoption, the standards referenced in subsection (b) are to be followed.

d)         Licensee Training

1)         Curriculum. By calendar year 2005, the OSFM plans to develop, in cooperation with industry representatives, and adopt rules establishing an Illinois specific curriculum for the training of UST contractors. The curriculum will insure that owners/operators and citizens of Illinois receive the safest and best UST installation, testing and maintenance possible.

2)         Training Providers

OSFM will be developing and adding to this Part standards for approving organizations and/or individuals to provide instruction to licensees in accordance with the curriculum described in this subsection (d).

e)         Testing

1)         Starting in 2006, all UST contractors will be required to pass tests indicating adequate knowledge of the Illinois UST activity standards in order to receive or renew each contractor's license.

2)         Testing Providers

OSFM will be developing and adding to this Part standards for approving organizations and/or individuals to test prospective licensees. Test fees will be established by OSFM.