Which condition requires immediate cleanup action according to regulations?

Immediate cleanup action is required for spills and overfills because they pose significant environmental and safety risks. When fuel or other hazardous materials are released into the environment, they can contaminate soil, surface water, and groundwater, which can lead to serious ecological harm and human health risks. Regulations are designed to ensure that any release of substances that could potentially harm the environment or public health is addressed without delay.

Spills and overfills are typically preventable, and regulatory measures demand prompt reporting and remediation to mitigate any potential impact. This urgency is reflected in guidelines that stipulate immediate cleanup processes to handle such occurrences effectively.

While physical damage to the tank, mechanical failures of equipment, and expired permits are serious concerns that require attention and management, they do not necessitate the same level of immediate action as spills and overfills, which directly impact the surrounding environment and public safety.