Dams
Dam Decharacterization & Tailings Reuse
Since 2020, CSN Mineração has been promoting a structural transformation in tailings management through the adoption of dry stacking, eliminating the need for new tailings dams. This has been made possible by the tailings filtration plant and advances in magnetic concentration technologies.
Technology That Transforms
- Filtration plant: enables dry stacking and enhances safety.
- Magnetic concentration (CMAIs): recovers iron and reduces process losses.
Direct ESG Impact
- Reduced dependence on tailings dams.
- Lower generation and disposal of tailings.
- Reduced geotechnical risks.
- Reduced environmental impacts.
- More efficient use of natural resources.
“Sustainable Value and Circular Economy in Practice”
Structure Safety
The safety of tailings dams is treated as an absolute priority at CSN.
“The Company maintains Dam Safety Plans and Emergency Action Plans for Mining Dams (PAEBM) for 100% of its structures.”
In addition, all dams have a Declaration of Stability Condition (DCE) issued by an independent auditor, in compliance with applicable legislation and with a commitment to transparency, with information made publicly available.
The declarations are renewed every six months (March and September of each year), confirming that:
- All structures are safe and stable.
- No dam is under an emergency level.
Since 2020, 100% of iron ore tailings are filtered and dry stacked at CSN Mineração
Tailings Filtration Plant I and II
- Greater filters in the iron ore segment;
- Reduce dependence on dams;
- Dry stacking of tailings;
- Higher production rate at the central plant.
Risk Management and Monitoring
CSN Mineração continuously invests in technological innovation applied to dam safety. Risk management is based on an integrated system that combines inspections, technology, and data analysis, enabling the identification of deviations and preventive action.
| Continuous Monitoring | Biweekly visual inspections
Use of drones and georeferenced equipment
Real-time online monitoring
Automated instrumentation and data analysis systems
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| Control and Validation | Semiannual external audits
Independent technical reviews
Specialized geotechnical inspections
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Governance and Control
Dam safety is managed through a structured framework involving different governance bodies, including the Risk Inspection and Assessment Group and the PAEBM Safety Management Committee.
This process includes:
- Consolidation of technical data
- Assessments conducted by external consultants
- Independent audits
Ensuring continuous analysis of the structural stability of the dams.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
The Company also takes a preventive approach focused on protecting local communities through:
- Mapping of potentially affected areas
- Active community engagement
- Regular emergency drills
- Educational seminars and awareness initiatives
The Company maintained all of its dams with proven stability, with no structure classified under an emergency level.
CSN Mineração dam de-characterization schedule for the coming years
