Internal Simulation No. 05/2024: Comprehensive Evaluation of CCM02 Area in Meltshop 02
In a challenging industrial environment like iron and steel manufacturing, maintaining a high level of safety, operational efficiency, and swift responsiveness is essential. To ensure these critical aspects, the Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment Directorate recently conducted Internal Simulation No. 05/2024, specifically targeting the CCM02 area of Meltshop 02 (SMS02). This exercise is a vital part of our continuous improvement program and our efforts to ensure full control over all situations, whether routine or critical.
Objectives of the Simulation
The simulation had several key objectives, including:
Evaluating the response of teams to a potential incident in the CCM02 area, assessing preventive and safety measures, decision-making speed, and communication between different departments.
Testing emergency procedures in this unit, as Meltshop 02 is a critical part of our production chain, and any disruption in this area could have site-wide implications.
Analyzing equipment performance under a simulated scenario, with a specific focus on the CCM02 area—an essential stage in the continuous casting process—to identify any potential mechanical or logistical weaknesses.
Identifying areas for improvement in operational practices and employee competencies.
Simulation Process
The exercise was meticulously planned and executed, involving CCM02 area operators, maintenance teams, and safety officers. A furnace explosion was simulated, leading to a fire and causing injuries to two individuals with varying degrees of burns during peak activity, making the simulation as realistic as possible.
The teams had to respond in real-time, following emergency protocols, minimizing the incident's impact on production, and ensuring worker safety.
Results and Conclusions
The initial results of the exercise were encouraging, with teams demonstrating quick responses and effective coordination, adhering to safety and crisis management guidelines. However, some areas for improvement were identified:
Improved communication between departments: Despite the teams’ professionalism, smoother communication between some departments could be enhanced. Specific training sessions will be provided to strengthen these exchanges.
Review of some protocols: Adjustments to emergency response procedures were proposed, particularly regarding the management of information systems during technical failures.
Equipment improvements: Preventive maintenance for certain equipment in the CCM02 area will be prioritized to avoid issues similar to those simulated.
Next Steps
Following this exercise, an action plan has been established to implement the necessary improvements, and additional simulations will be scheduled throughout the year to ensure our plant remains a model of operational excellence and safety in the steel industry.
Bilal Belramdane
Internal Simulation No. 05/2024 in the CCM02 area of Meltshop 02 was a crucial step in our risk prevention and management approach. It provided us with a better understanding of operational challenges and reinforced the culture of safety and quick response. These initiatives are essential to ensure our plant continues to operate at the highest performance levels while providing a safe working environment for all employees.
Once again, we reaffirm our commitment to industrial safety and excellence.