Our dam management approach
Our industrial complex consists of six dams monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Dams currently in operation
Dam 6
Designated for industrial waste storage.
Dam 7
Dam for storing new water.
Dam 8
For storage of industrial waste.
Dam D
For containing sludge carried by rainwater.
Dams Under Decharacterization*
Dam 4
Designated for industrial waste storage. Currently in the closure phase.
Decommissioned Dams*
Dam 5
This dam was used for industrial waste storage and is currently undergoing the closure process.
*Decommissioning is the process where the structure loses its dam
characteristics and its area is reintegrated into the environment.
Waste Disposal Structures 9
The Waste Disposal Structures 9 (EDR9) project was granted its Preliminary License (LP) in 2021. After receiving the Installation License (LI) from the State Council for Environmental Policy (Copam) in 2023, the construction phase began in August 2023.
Integrated Monitoring Center
- IMC
Our dams are continuously monitored 24/7 at the Integrated Monitoring Center (IMC). The IMC is equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring advanced computers and a video wall with interconnected monitors. This system is integrated with over 20 high-resolution cameras and sophisticated monitoring instruments, allowing for swift and remote assessments and diagnostics of all our dams.
Remote
supervision
Remote
supervision
Remote
supervision
Remote
supervision
Remote
supervision
Remote
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How are our dams managed?
Project
The projects are developed by companies with national and international operations, with the participation of multidisciplinary professionals to ensure that the best practices and technologies available are adopted. Before implementation, the projects are verified by independent consultants to validate the technical premises adopted.
Deployment
The dams are built by a company with a specialized technical team and proven experience. All works are inspected by CBMM and contracted companies.
The dams in operation are built using the downstream raising method, in other words, the embankment is built 20 centimeters at a time on a sturdy foundation. The works are monitored by specialized technicians who perform technological control activities, which aim to ensure that the technical design premises are being met.
Operation
Waste Disposal and Water Recirculation
The waste from the beneficiation process is deposited in dams according to the strategic disposal plan, prepared by CBMM in partnership with specialized companies. In addition to ensuring the best waste disposal, it also allows for the recirculation of approximately 96% of the water used in the entire industrial process.
Sediment Containment
Rainwater that carries sediments is contained by dams, with the aim of promoting their clarification. During dry periods, the stored sediments are removed from the containment dam and deposited in appropriate locations, in order to maintain the accumulation capacity.
Water Storage
The water dam is operated through collection in a pumping system to meet industrial demands that are not met by the recirculation of water in the waste dams.
Monitoring
The structures are monitored full-time, using automated instrumentation and high-resolution cameras connected to the integrated monitoring center – CMI. In addition, field teams periodically inspect the dams, monitor the instruments and identify the state of conservation of the structure.
Maintenance
Maintenance of the dams is carried out by an in-house team with the support of specialized companies. Any and all necessary maintenance is carried out within engineering criteria and with full monitoring of the activities.
Supervision
The dams at our plant are periodically inspected by regulatory bodies in compliance with current legislation. In addition, they are audited by professionals outside the company’s staff, with the aim of evaluating procedures, safety conditions and operational records, as well as attesting to the stability of the dam.
Dam Safety Plan (PSB)
The Dam Safety Plan (PSB) is a management system that aims to promote the organization of information from all phases of the dam and ensure its traceability throughout the useful life of the structure.
Emergency Action Plan (PAE)
Technical and easy-to-understand document prepared by the developer, which identifies potential emergency situations at the dam, establishes the actions to be taken in such cases and defines the agents to be notified, with the aim of (I) ensuring the safety of people and animals; (II) preserving the environment; and (III) safeguarding cultural heritage.
Decommissioning
Decharacterization is the moment when the structure loses its dam characteristics and its area is reintegrated into the environment. At this time, projects are developed by companies with national and international operations, using the best engineering practices to reintegrate the area into the environment with total safety. This stage is also accompanied by high technological control to ensure that the best practices and technologies designed are applied, reinforcing our commitment to the environment.
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