Comprehensive Assessment of CCM02 Area – SMS02 Continuous Casting Unit
In a highly demanding industry such as steelmaking, performance and safety are never left to chance but are continuously strengthened through realistic and structured simulations. In this context, Algerian Qatari Steel conducted Internal Simulation No. 05/2024, targeting the CCM02 area within the SMS02 continuous casting unit, a critical stage in the production chain. This exercise is part of a broader strategy aimed at reinforcing full operational control over both normal and critical scenarios, while embedding a strong culture of prevention and responsiveness within a complex industrial environment.
Objectives of the Simulation
The exercise was designed around several key objectives, including assessing team responsiveness to a potential incident scenario in the CCM02 area by measuring decision-making speed, effectiveness of safety measures, and interdepartmental coordination. It also aimed to test emergency procedures within the SMS02 unit, a core component of the production process, and to evaluate equipment performance under simulated operational stress conditions, in order to identify potential technical or logistical gaps and define improvement areas.
Simulation Process
The exercise was carefully planned and executed to ensure a high level of realism. Operators from the CCM02 area, maintenance teams, and safety officers actively participated. The simulated scenario involved an explosion at the ladle level, resulting in a fire and injuries to two employees with varying degrees of burns, occurring during peak production activity.
Teams were required to respond immediately, applying established emergency protocols, controlling the situation, minimizing incident impact, and ensuring personnel safety while maintaining operational continuity.
Results and Key Findings
The simulation demonstrated a strong level of preparedness and coordination among teams, with effective response times aligned with safety and crisis management requirements. However, several improvement areas were identified, including enhancing interdepartmental communication, reviewing certain emergency system management procedures, and strengthening preventive maintenance practices for critical equipment in the CCM02 area.
Next Steps
Following the exercise, a structured action plan has been established to implement the identified improvements. Additional simulations will be scheduled throughout the year to further strengthen the culture of continuous improvement and ensure sustained operational excellence.
Conclusion
Mr. Billel Belramadhan emphasized that this internal simulation represents a key milestone in the company’s risk prevention and management strategy. It provided deeper insight into operational challenges and reinforced the culture of safety and rapid response. Such initiatives remain essential to ensuring long-term plant performance and maintaining a safe working environment for all employees.
