What type of financial responsibility mechanism should NOT be relied upon?

A report on anticipated sales should not be relied upon as a financial responsibility mechanism because it is not a secure or guaranteed method of ensuring funds will be available for potential environmental damage or tank failures. This type of report is speculative and depends on various market factors, such as sales volume and market trends, that can fluctuate and are not within the control of the operator.

In contrast, mechanisms like insurance policies, guarantees, and financial assurances provide tangible, enforceable financial backing to cover unforeseen costs associated with operating underground storage tanks. These instruments are designed to create a safety net for environmental liabilities and regulatory compliance, ensuring that there are adequate funds available for cleanup and remediation if necessary. Therefore, while reports on anticipated sales may offer insight into future business performance, they do not constitute a reliable financial assurance mechanism in the context of UST regulations.