Cause of the incident: Damage to the underground wall of the shaft of the DHD system, which is connected to the sewage network
The DHD system is designed for the purification of water used for the wet purification of gases during the steelmaking process. This system is a wet dedusting system that prevents the emission of solid particles in the air and the same is collected by using water. The mud is separated, dried and then the water is recirculated. It is a completely closed system that does not envisage the release of muddy water into the river at any moment. It is a closed-loop system so the water just circulates within the system. This is precisely the reason why yesterday’s incident was a surprise for us.
After yesterday’s detailed investigation, it was established that there was damage to the wall of the underground shaft, most likely due to geological ground movements. Namely, the instability of the soil in the area where the DHD system is located, as well as several other buildings, is noticeable and that could lead to displacement and damage to the shaft wall.
As soon as we received information about the incident, we stopped the operation of the Steel plant, and all workers were focused on determining the cause of the problem and its repair. The Steel plant will not start work until security measures are taken to prevent the incident from happening again.
The red color of the Bosnia river
It is a visual effect that has not been found to have caused a harmful impact on the environment. Red muddy water was tested in our lab and it was found that it contains mostly iron dust and limestone. So, the composition consists of substances that are normally found in the soil.
Analysis of the Sava river agency is awaited, but the confirmation by the inspector that there was no dead fish confirms our understanding.
The Company continues to monitor the operation of the DHD system and we will have more information in the next few days.
We apologize for the disturbing news caused by this incident that happened in our company and we assure you that we are taking all the corrective and preventive steps.
ArcelorMittal Zenica has always taken the environment seriously, has invested heavily in the last few years in the environment, and shall continue to remain a responsible citizen of Zenica.
