No later than December 17, 2004, an operator of a covered pipeline segment must develop and follow a written integrity management program that contains all the elements described in section 255.911 of this Part and that addresses the risks on each covered transmission pipeline segment. The initial integrity management program must consist, at a minimum, of a framework that describes the process for implementing each program element, how relevant decisions will be made and by whom, a time line for completing the work to implement the program element, and how information gained from experience will be continuously incorporated into the program. The framework will evolve into a more detailed and comprehensive program. An operator must make continual improvements to the program.

In carrying out sections 255.901 through 255.951 of this Part, an operator must follow the requirements of sections 255.901 through 255.951 of this Part and of ASME/ANSI B31.8S (as described in section 10.3 of this Title) and its appendices, where specified. An operator may follow an equivalent standard or practice only when the operator demonstrates the alternative standard or practice provides an equivalent level of safety to the public and property. In the event of a conflict between sections 255.901 through 255.951 of this Part and ASME/ANSI B31.8S, the requirements in sections 255.901 through 255.951 of this Part control.