As a result of this work, we have come over time identifying products which are dangerous and we have put in place some processes for their replacement/elimination. An example of success was the process of replacing Forane 141-B refrigerant gas (harmful to the ozone layer) by internal refrigeration system cleaner fluids in 2017, considered sustainable. More recently, we started the gradual replacement of other dangerous products used in our production processes: we started to use exclusively electronic initiators for detonation in rock blasting with explosives; we are replacing trichlorethylene-based glues in conveyor belt vulcanization processes in several operations; and we replaced liquid chlorine by sodium hypochlorite in the Cobalt Oxidation process at Port Colborne refinery in Canada, after an operational risk identification checking.

​In 2021, to make our activities even safer, we adopted a more proactive strategy, starting with a new mapping of potentially dangerous substances. We consolidated the chemicals used in Vale's various business units and identified, according to internal criteria, 7 groups of products whose use may represent health risks due to acute or chronic exposure or contamination of soil, air and water, although they are not prohibited or controlled by legislation.

​Based on the identified groups, the strategy of reducing the use of these substances consists in the search and identification of products on the market whose chemical compositions do not represent the dangers of current used products, with the ability to meet the technical requirements expected by the user areas. In some cases, it may be necessary to develop new products together with manufacturers. Thus, after technical evaluation and field tests to analyze the effectiveness of the product in our activities, if the new product is approved, the change management process will begin to ensure that all the ones involved are aware and trained to work properly with the new substances. After completing all the tests and formally presenting the substitution justifications, the reconfigurations will be carried out for the purchase and contracting of services that use these products, with the appropriate blocking and adjustments to guarantee sustainable purchases.

 

This plan will be consolidated into an agreed commitment with Vale’s management board, with clearly defined targets for reducing chemical risks from 2024. At this moment, we will have well-defined strategies by product and process, based on a more detailed identification from the analysis of inventories, external market trends, available technologies and internal assessments and analysis of operational risks.

 

While harmful substances and products are still in the process of being replaced or eliminated, Vale will continue to put into practice the guidelines established to mitigate chemical risks and environmental impacts. Our strategies are based on the concepts and criteria of GHS - Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals - which provides safety and better understanding by classifying hazards into physical, human health and environmental and establishing clear communication standards. In addition, the concepts of PSM - Process Safety Management - have also been put into practice as part of this strategy, taking into account the characteristics of mining processes, and absorbing the lessons learned and discoveries of the chemical industry.

 

The sub-processes of acquisition, transport, storage, internal transfer, handling, use, post-use and emergencies are standardized and are part of Vale's Management System, which includes the availability of safety information, prior evaluation of products, verification of compliance with legal requirements, inspections and audits, training of the personnel involved and other operational controls, such as the use of PPE, containments, exhausts, and the various maintenance of the respective assets and systems.