Dams

CSN is also conducting a program to de-characterize existing dams, which even exceeds the requirements established by government agencies, since it also provides for the de-characterization of dams regardless of the construction method. The conduction of the de-characterization projects and the safety management of the structures follow the best national and international practices. Safety management is carried out by a dedicated technical team and monitored by the Dams Committee – composed of technicians and executives from the Company and reporting to the Board of Directors, the National Mining Agency and other competent authorities.

Between 2020 and 2021, CSN Mineração completed the de-characterization of the B5 Dam (Casa de Pedra) and the Auxiliary do Vigia Dam (Pires Complex). The Vigia Dam is in the process of completing the de-characterization works, with completion scheduled for the year 2023.

The company is at the forefront of mining tailings management worldwide, having invested around R$400 million in technologies that allowed better tailings management with filtration and dry stacking, making our processes 100% since the beginning of 2020. % independent of the use of the tailings dam. All dams are audited by independent companies specialized in the subject, aiming at attesting stability and identifying preventive actions to guarantee this stability. Throughout 2022, all CSN Mineração dams remain stable, that is, without any emergency or alert level, and with all stability declarations issued. Continuing with the de-characterization schedule of our dams, the work on the belt channel of the Vigia Dam was completed and we are in the clear process of de-characterization of this dam, scheduled for completion in 2023.

Dam management aligned with legal requirements

CSN Mineração oriented by Resolution ANM No. 95 of 2022 (National Mining Agency), which regulates the measures applicable to mining dams, carries out the work aimed at the management of its dams.

The PSB (Dam Safety Plan), as defined in the resolution, is an instrument whose main objective is to assist the entrepreneur in ensuring dam safety standards by reducing the risks of accidents and their consequences. The PSB is composed of 6 volumes:

-General information;

-Plans and procedures;

-Records and controls;

-Periodic Dam Safety Review (RPSB);

-Action and emergency plan for mining dams (PAEBM);

-Risk management process (PGRBM).

-Directed by the PSB, the Mine and Dam Geotechnics Management (GMB) carries out the management of its structures through measures that ensure the good conservation status of its dams and the stability of our dams.

Periodically, CSN Mineração reports to the state and federal agencies responsible for dam surveillance, the status of the activities carried out, in order to comply with the legislation. At national level, the information regarding the structures is declared in SIGBM (Integrated System of Management of Mining Dams), and is open to public consultation.

Mining Dams Emergency Action Plan (PAEBM)

Check it out the Dam Emergency Action Plans (PAEBMs) below. To access the annexes of each structure, click here.