(a) Prior to the effective date of rules promulgated pursuant to subdivision (9) or (10), subsection (b), section six of this article, the director is authorized to:
(1) Require the owner or operator of an underground storage tank to undertake corrective action with respect to any release of petroleum from said tank when the director determines that such corrective action shall be done properly and promptly by the owner or operator if, in the judgment of the director, such action is necessary to protect human health and the environment; or