COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.

PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

GUIDE FOR MARITIME TRANSPORTATION OF

HOT BRIQUETTED IRON (HBI)

1. SPECIAL GUIDELINES, RULES & REGULATIONS

1.1 Hot briquetted iron or HBI is classified as DIRECT REDUCED IRON (A)
Briquettes, Hot Moulded, Class MHB, Group B, Appendix 1, of the IMO Code
of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk Cargoes, and as such is safe for maritime
transport without the use of inert gas or other special precautions. HBI
conforms to the requirement of the above mentioned IMO CODE (Pg. 107 to
108 – 2004 Edition). A copy of the relevant pages of the BC Code is included
with this package as a courtesy only. Carriers are responsible for the latest
IMO materials on bulk cargoes.

1.2 The HBI to be loaded also conforms to the requirements of the U.S. Coast
Guard Special Permits.

1.3 HBI is defined as a material emanating from a densification process whereby

the direct reduced iron (DRI) feed material is at a temperature greater than
650°C at time of moulding and has a density greater than 5.0 g/cm3.

1.4 This material may slowly evolve hydrogen after in contact with water.
Temporary self-heating may be expected after material is handled in bulk.

1.5 Refer to our HBI MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET attached, for
characteristics of the product.

1.6 Vessel must be suitable for the loading and transportation of HBI. The vessel
shall load and stow cargo in accordance with the latest Code of Safe Practice
for Solid Bulk Cargo.

1.7 HBI should not be loaded if product temperature is in excess of 65°C (150°F).

1.8 Cargo spaces containing HBI may become oxygen-depleted and all due
caution should be exercised upon entering such compartments.

1.9 Adequate surface ventilation should be provided at all times.

1.10 All shipboard work necessary for docking, undocking and loading, including
but not limited to line handling and tending, opening & closing hatches and
normal deck clean up should be done by the vessel’s crew, after they are

1 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

made aware by the vessel management of the possibility of the presence of

flammable Hydrogen gas.

2. HBI LOADING PROCEDURE

2.1 Requirements prior to loading:

2.1.1 Open storage of HBI is acceptable prior to loading as mentioned in the IMO
Code, Appendix 1.

2.1.2 All cargo spaces should be clean and dry. Ships to ensure BILGE WELLS
were DRY AND SEALED before commencement of loading.

2.1.3 Bilge wells should be sift-proof and kept dry during the voyage. Wooden
fixtures such as battens, etc., should be removed. Where possible, adjacent
ballast tanks, other than double-bottom tanks, should be kept empty.
Weatherdeck closures should be inspected and tested to ensure integrity.

2.1.4 All holds to be loaded must be washed with fresh water and then thoroughly
dried and ventilated, ensuring that there are no residual chlorides. Residual
chlorides will greatly increase the rate of Hydrogen gas production by the
cargo.

2.1.5 There should not be any sources of heat or spark in the cargo spaces
and/or surrounding areas.

2.1.6 Ensure that hatches and other hold openings are absolutely watertight.

2.1.7 Water tightness testing will be carried out prior to loading.

2.1.8 The master of the ship is responsible for the integrity of the cargo holds in
order to ensure that no water gets inside.

2.1.9 Radar, RDF scanners, deck motors, hatch pistons, similar delicate
equipment and any area that you consider necessary, should be protected
against dust and fines during loading and unloading.

2.1.10 As much ballast as possible should be pumped out prior to docking and on
berth in order to avoid delays in loading, taking into account the air-draft at
Palua which should be advised by your agent. Adjacent ballast tank should
be pumped out prior completion of the cargo. The Captain of the Vessel
should be aware that the loading rate is high (2,000 tons/hr) and the

2 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

deballasting has to meet the loading time. In case loading stops due to
deballasting purposes, demurrages will be for Vessel’s account.

2.1.11 All strainer plates on bilge wells in holds to be loaded should be covered
with wire mesh to make them sift proof. BURLAP OR ANY COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL MUST NOT BE USED. Wooden fixture such as battens, etc.,
must also be removed.

2.1.12 Pre-stowage plan and loading sequence program is the responsibility of the
Vessel. A loading sequence form and individual hold loading sequence form
should be prepared prior to arrival for presentation to the shipper upon
docking. The sequence should allow for no more than 2,000 MT for small
holds and 3,000 MT for large holds for each pour. Furthermore, the loading
sequence should allow for the maximum amount of cooling time before
coming back to the same hold. Thus, if your initial sequence is, for example
cargo holds 3/5/1/7, then the second run should be in the same order.

2.2 Requirements during loading:

2.2.1 The loading of HBI should only be done in dry weather conditions. If it
begins to rain during the loading process, the loading operation must be
halted and the hatches closed until the rain stops. During rainy seasons,
only one hold at a time should be opened.

2.2.2 The deck officer on watch must keep the loading arm moving every few
hundred tons in order to obtain an even surface trim of the cargo. Loading
will be under the Vessel’s control and supervision. Vessel personnel must
ensure that trimming is done correctly. Therefore, THE SHIPPER will not be
responsible of the way the cargo is distributed inside the hold upon
completion of loading. It is Crew’s responsibility that the Vessel remains
against the pier for an adequate stowage.

2.2.3 Immediately after loading is completed, the hatches should be closed and
sealed. Afterwards, it is recommended that the ship surface be washed with
high-pressure fresh water at a permissible location.

2.2.4 If damp HBI was loaded, it may warm up to about 65° C (140° F), and may
produce water vapor (steam) and a small amount of Hydrogen gas as it
dries. This is a normal condition and may last from 1 to 2 days until the HBI
is completely dry. Steam and hydrogen gas evolution will cease. Natural
ventilation is necessary.

3 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

2.2.5 During and after the loading of HBI, do not allow any hot work such as
burning, welding, chipping or any other activity in cargo holds or surrounding
areas on deck that may produce spark. Smoking must be also prohibited.

2.2.6 Any source of a potential spark or high heat must also be prevented on deck
and in the holds. For example, incandescent lighting in a hold (a broken bulb
will briefly expose the light element, which is at high heat) unprotected
cables that may cause spark, etc.

2.2.7 After loading and during the voyage no one should be allowed to go into the
cargo holds, as these spaces may become oxygen depleted. At the
discharging port no one is to go into the holds until after several hours of
opening holds and verifying that the oxygen concentration has been
restored.

3. VOYAGE PRECAUTIONS:

3.1 Emergency entry into a cargo space should be undertaken only by personnel
trained in confined space operations and wearing self-contained breathing
apparatus, and protective clothing if necessary, and always under the
supervision of a responsible qualified officer.

3.2 While navigating the Orinoco River channel, and only when weather permits,
hatch covers should be half opened to allow any hydrogen and vapor to
dissipate. In case “Ram neck” or other sealant is used, the induced ventilation
system should be used.

3.3 It is recommended that the ship be fitted with equipment to monitor

temperature and the presence of oxygen and hydrogen gas during the
voyage. The vessel’s crew should actively use this equipment in regular
intervals throughout the voyage. The information collected should be
recorded, kept on board and made available upon request.

3.4 Do not allow smoking, welding, burning, chipping or any other activity that
produces sparks, or other source of fire that could lead to a gas ignition. Treat
the entire deck area as having a gas explosive potential. Smoking should also
be prohibited.

3.5 Hatches must remain closed while at sea to prevent the entry of seawater into
the holds. Under no circumstances should seawater be allowed to enter the
holds. IF SEAWATER ENTERS THE HOLD CONTAINING HBI, THE
MASTER SHOULD OPEN THE VENTS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND

4 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

SHOULD CONTACT THE SHIPPER IMMEDIATELY. The induced

mechanical ventilation system must be regularly used in order to ensure the
extraction of any hydrogen gas that might generate inside any holds.
Hydrogen content in any hold must be kept at less than 4% by volume in air.

3.6 During the voyage the natural ventilation system shall be opened ONLY
during favorable weather and sea conditions to enable any heat and/or
Hydrogen gas from the cargo to be released. Do this on a regular basis; say
during every shift, for a period of at least one hour each shift where possible.

3.7 Ventilation should be closed during heavy seas to keep seawater and
moisture out.

3.8 In warm latitudes you may notice that the temperature readings rise to a high
at during the day due to solar warming raising the ambient temperature of the
holds combined with the accompanying condensation. You may also notice a
steady rise in the cargo temperature for the first 24-36 hours after loading due
to handling and possible surface moisture after loading. Both of these
conditions are normal. A gradual temperature decline towards the ambient
temperature should then follow.

3.9 Bilges must be sounded TWICE everyday and excess water pumped out
when necessary.

3.10 If a small amount of seawater enters the holds, due to the hatch cover leaks
during heavy seas, keep the holds closed and sealed. Continue to ventilate
whenever weather conditions allow (The goal is to ventilate allowing
Hydrogen gas leave the hold). The steaming of HBI, if it occurs, may not be
noted until 16-24 hours after the entrance of seawater. The HBI contacted by
seawater will oxidize to reddish brown color. Seawater should not be
allowed to enter the cargo holds.

If the hold is breached due to an accident and become flooded with seawater,
there will be a bubbling action in the flooded cargo due to the production of
Hydrogen. The temperature of the water will remain constant. Consult immediately
the P & I club in order to define what further action should be taken.

Also, advise COMSIGUA via one of the following: Telephones: 58-286-

952.00.80 / 952.21.53 / 952.22.29, Direct phone 952.62.56 Fax: 58-286-
952.64.40, e- mail: agonzalez@comsigua.com.ve , igibellini@comsigua.com.ve
& trivas@comsigua.com.ve

5 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

Mobile phones: +58-414-871.3867 / +58-414-386.1225 / +58-414-386.1224

4. PROCEDURES IF PRODUCT TEMPERATURES RISE ABOVE 65°C

If the HBI comes into contact with water, the temperature will tend to rise and
steaming will occur. The temperature may reach 65°C and tend to decline
gradually. However, if there is a continuous rise in temperature over 65°C, you
should commence the institution of the following procedures:

4.1 Keep hatchcovers battened down.

4.2 Open the passive non-electrical ventilators for at least one-hour per watch to
allow venting of any Hydrogen gas accumulation.

4.3 Prohibit smoking on deck.

4.4 Do not allow welding, chipping or any activity that could lead to a gas ignition.
Treat the entire deck area as having a gas explosive potential.

4.5 Check temperatures by lowering a thermometer down the sounding pipes to

bilges, Double Bottom and wing tanks and record the temperatures.

4.6 On holds that do not carry HBI, open the hatch covers sufficiently to ventilate
and clear the holds of Hydrogen gas accumulation to allow safe entry into
these areas to check for bulkhead heating. Record any changes and spray
the bulkheads with water if heating is noted providing the bulkheads are
mechanically sound and watertight.

4.7 Monitor the HBI temperature every four hours. Record all the temperature
readings.

4.8 Follow the instructions of the appointed expert or surveyor.

4.9 At sea, do not open the trouble hold without explicit instructions from the
appointed expert or surveyor.

4.10 Do not use water on HBI at any time. HBI can only be cooled with water when
it is spread out in fine layers in open yards or if it is completely flooded in an

6 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

enclosed compartment. In the last case, Hydrogen gas liberation must be

ensured.

5. UNLOADING

5.1 Nobody is to enter holds immediately after hatchcovers opening, as they may
be oxygen depleted.

5.2 Radar, RDF scanner and other delicate equipment should be protected
against dust and fines.
5.3 Unloading can be done by using any bulk material handling system, such as
grabs.

5.4 During final discharge only a spray of water may be used to reduce dust
emission from HBI.

5.5 Immediately after unloading, the holds should be thoroughly rinsed with
pressurized fresh water to remove any fines or dust that may have been
accumulated.

5.6 After the holds are clean, the hatches should be shut, and the external
structure should again be washed with fresh water to remove any fines or
dust remaining.

WARNING
DO NOT USE EITHER FRESH WATER OR SEAWATER TO COOL DOWN HOT
MATERIAL in enclosed spaces such a cargo hold on a ship, unless strictly
necessary to keep integrity of vessel and under Master’s expertise. If water
must be used: i) use large amount of water to flood the material and ii)
provide adequate ventilation to let hydrogen gas generated escape to
atmosphere.

6. LOGISTIC AND LOADING PARTICULARS

6.1 The Vessel will be berthed with the port side to the pier.

6.2 Ship loader moves running along the pier (forward to aft) and the loader arm
moves from port to starboard. In this way, cargo can be loaded and evenly
spread into the hold, which is SHIPPER’s loading recommendation.

6.3 During loading, our personnel will be on the pier and/or the Vessel assisting
the operation and acting as a link between the Vessel’s Staff and the

7 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

operator’s loading system at the Port terminal. Shipper’s personnel will use
best efforts to cooperate and/or assist vessel’s staff during loading
operations, BUT SHIPPER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOADING AND
STOWING CARGO ABOARD SHIP.

6.4 Pre-stowage plan and loading sequence program is the responsibility of the
Vessel.

6.5 Loading will be under the Vessel’s control and supervision. Therefore,
SHIPPER will not be responsible of the way the cargo is distributed inside the
hold upon completion of loading.

6.6 It is Crew’s responsibility that the Vessel remains against the pier for an
adequate stowage. Please keep a constant watch on mooring lines.

NOTE: IF THE PORT OPERATOR DECIDES TO STOP THE LOADING

OPERATIONS DUE TO VESSEL SEPARATION FROM THE PIER, THIS TIME
PERIOD WILL BE FOR VESSEL’S ACCOUNT.

We would like to point out that any time lost due to: (1) - Deballasting the Vessel,
(2) - Problems with hatch covers, (3) - by any other problem on the Vessel that
may stop loading and (4) - checking draft and calculating trimming operations,
WILL BE FOR VESSEL’S ACCOUNT.

7. Barge transportation:

Prior loading the barges, they must be inspected to ensure that the barge bottom is
dry, clean and free of any possible contamination.

Barges should be equipped with a means of removing water from the cargo. The
HBI should be evenly distributed in the barge, making the pile as flat as possible.

The drop of the briquette should be minimized, to reduce breakage and fine
generation.

The same conditions and requirements for non-contact with sea water, rain,
covering etc. that apply in the loading of cargo vessel holds, must be applied when
loading barges. For inland barge, covering is not compulsory.

8 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

The unmanned covered barges used to transport HBI shall be fitted with adequate
vents to provide natural ventilation.

If at any time the cargo compartment of a covered barge must be entered, the
compartment must be checked for adequate oxygen concentration. Before any
person enter a covered cargo compartment containing HBI, the hatches must be
opened for a sufficient length of time to dissipate any accumulated gas.

Special Permits to transport HBI:

Whenever HBI is transported by barge, a copy of Coast Guard Special Permit 17-
97C, must be on board the tugboat or towing vessel. When the barge is moored,
the shipping papers and a copy of its Special Permit must remain on the barge in a
suitable protected location, if required.

For HBI cargo vessels and unmanned coverage barges, the Coast Guard Special
Permit 5-98, shall be on board.

COMSIGUA, C.A.

9 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

MANUFACTURER'S MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

SECTION I – PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

Product Identification

Product Name: Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI)

Trade Name: Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI)
Chemical Name: Iron
Product Use: Iron and Steel Production

Description as per IMO BC

Code Appendix 1 Pages 107
and 108:

Proper Shipping Name: Direct Reduced Iron (A), Briquettes, hot-molded

IMO Class: MHB
Group: B

US Coast Guard Special SP 5-98 & SP 17-97C

Permits:

Date of MSDS: September 2008

Company Identification

Manufacturer’s Name: Complejo Siderurgico de Guayana, C.A.

Address: Parque Industrial de CVG Minorca
Matanzas, Sector Punta Cuchillo
Puerto Ordaz, Edo. Bolivar – Codigo Postal 8016
Venezuela
Phone Numbers: +58 286 9520080 / 9522623 / 9522153
Fax Numbers: +58 286 9526440
Emergency Numbers: +58 4148713867 / 4143861225 / 4143861224

10 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

SECTION II – Composition/Information on Ingredients

CHEMICAL DATA: (percentages by weight)

Total Iron (TFe): 91.2 % Minimum

Metallic Iron (MFe): 84.7 % Minimum
Carbon (C): Range 0.8-1.2 %
Sulfur (S): 0.03 % Maximum
Phosphorus (P) as P2O5: 0.1 % Maximum
Gangue: 6.0 % Maximum

CAS N°

Substance National Institute of Standards EINECS N°

and Technology Chemical
Abstract System (CAS) Number
DIRECT 65996-67-0 265-998-4
REDUCED IRON
BRIQUETTES

SECTION III – Hazards Identification Including Emergency Overviews

HAZARD INFORMATION

Class Not Classified as Hazardous

Ingredients No known hazardous ingredients
Poisons Schedule NOT SCHEDULED

HEALTH EFFECTS

Acute Ingestion If swallowed, dust or small pieces may cause

gastrointestinal disturbances. An overdose of
iron may cause irritation to the mouth, esophagus
and stomach. Symptoms may include nausea,
vomiting, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea and
shock.

11 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

Excessive Eye contact
Acute Skin Contact
Excessive Inhalation
Chronic
Decomposition
Dust and small pieces may cause mechanical
irritation, redness and pain in contact with the
eyes, which can result in redness and lacrimation.
May cause conjunctivitis.
Dust and small pieces may cause mechanical
irritation in contact with the skin, which can result
in slight redness.
Inhalation of dust may cause irritation to the
respiratory tracks. Symptoms may include
coughing, sneezing, soreness of the throat and
breathing difficulties.
Repeated or prolonged exposure to this material
may result in skin irritation in individuals with
sensitive skin. Chronic exposure to iron dust has
been associated with benign pneumoconiosis,
not affecting lung function. Persons with impaired
respiratory functions may be more susceptible to
the effects of the substance.
May produce toxic iron fumes when heated to
decomposition (1,535 °C)

SECTION IV – First Aid Measures

FIRST AID

If Swallowed Induce vomiting immediately. Seek medical

attention.
Inhalation Remove person to fresh air. Get medical attention
in case of breathing difficulty.
Eyes If contact with eye(s) occurs, wash with copious
amounts of water for approximately 15 minutes
holding eyelid(s) open. If irritation develops and
persists seek medical attention.
Skin Wash gently and thoroughly with water and soap.
Ensure contaminated clothing is washed before
re-use or discard. If irritation develops and
persists seek medical attention.
First Aid Facilities Eye wash fountains and normal wash room
facilities

12 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
 COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

ADVICE TO DOCTOR
Advice to Doctor Treat symptomatically or consult a Poison
Information Center

SECTION V – Fire Fighting Measures

FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA

⎯ Material may slowly evolve hydrogen after contact with water and reacts
more rapidly with salt water. Temporary small increase in temperature
may be expected after material handling in bulk. Maximum allowed
shiploading temperature 65°C. If temperature exceeds 65°, provide
adequate surface ventilation to remove any Hydrogen gas generation.
Do not allow any hot work / spark generation on deck or surroundings.

⎯ Non-flammable when correctly piled. May self-heat if piled incorrectly.

In fire situation, evacuate area and contact emergency services. Remain
upwind and notify those downwind of hazard.

FIRE FIGHTING PROCEDURES

⎯ Wear fire protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus.

⎯ Wear non-sparking footwear.
⎯ Avoid all sources of ignition.
⎯ Remove the hot material from the stack. On a ship, a clamshell bucket
may be used.
⎯ Divide hot material into small piles and spread it out to less than ½ m
deep. The material will quickly cool below the ignition point.
⎯ In case it is not practical to spread the material over a wide area such as
in a hold of a ship, coverage using a non-oxidant material (e.g. sand, and
finely crushed slag) could be used, for smothering the fire and hindering
the air supply. This technique would need to be decided depending on
the emergency because it would contaminate the material.
⎯ Do not use CO2 as CO may be formed. Do not use dry chemical.
⎯ DO NOT USE EITHER FRESH WATER OR SEAWATER TO COOL DOWN
HOT MATERIAL in enclosed spaces such a cargo hold on a ship, unless
strictly necessary to keep integrity of vessel and under Master’s
expertise. If water is used: i) use large amount of water to flood the
material and ii) provide adequate ventilation to let hydrogen gas
generated escape to atmosphere.
⎯ In fire situation, evacuate area and contact emergency services

13 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
 COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

⎯ Emergency Schedule to follow for bulk material: B15, as per IMO BC

Code Appendix B, page 78 - 2001 Edition.
⎯ Emergency Schedule to follow for packaged material: GOLF, as per IMDG
Code

SECTION VI – Accidental Release Measures

Material in bulk: Broken pieces and dust generated during

loading and unloading should be collected and
dispose adequately.
Material in packaged Ventilate area if spilled into enclosed space. Use
form: e.g. samples protective equipment specified in Section 8.
Pick-up and place in a suitable container for
reclamation or disposal. Avoid contact with
strong oxidizers.

Emergency Schedule to November / Oscar / Papa, as per IMDG Code

follow for Spillage for
packaged material:

SECTION VII – Handling and Storage

Storage Precautions Store in cool, dry, well ventilated area removed

from oxidizing agents, flammable materials (e.g.
coke, wood), sources of heat (e.g. steam lines)
and foodstuffs.
Handling The HBI can be handled substantially the same as
scrap. It can be moved from one side to another,
stored and transported safely in all types of
weather due to its density and good physical and
chemical stability. The HBI can be stored outside,
uncovered.

SECTION VIII – Exposure Controls, Personal Protection

Respirator Type (NIOSH During handling dust is generated; and if

N95) ventilation is inadequate, the use of an N95-type
respirator is recommended.
Eye Protection During handling dust is generated, e.g. loading,

14 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

unloading, cutting or sanding; the use of safety

goggles is recommended.
Hand Protection Use of canvass gloves is recommended.
Head Protection During handling, material can spill and use of
helmet is recommended.

SECTION XIX – Physical and Chemical Properties

Physical State Solid

Appearance From Light Gray to Gray Black
Odor Odorless
Apparent Density (gm/cm³) 5.0 Minimum
Bulk Density (MT/m³) Range 2.5 – 2.8
Stowage factor (m³/MT) 0.35 – 0.40
Angle of Repose 38°
Fines under 4 mm 5% max.
Porosity 15 % Maximum
Water Pick-up 3.0 % Maximum
Dimensions (mm) 110 x 50 x 30
Solubility in water Insoluble
Melting Point APPROX. 1500 DEGREES CENTIGRADE
Boiling Point APPROX. 3000 DEGREES CENTIGRADE
Vapour Pressure NOT AVAILABLE
Specific Gravity APPROX. 5 (WATER = 1)
Flash Point NOT APPLICABLE
Flammable Limit LEL NOT APPLICABLE
Flammable Limit UEL NOT APPLICABLE
Solubility in Water INSOLUBLE

OTHER PROPERTIES

Corrosiveness NOT CORROSIVE TO ALUMINIUM

Stability STABLE UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS OF
USE
Hazardous Polymerization WILL NOT OCCUR
Materials to Avoid STRONG ACIDS AND OXIDIZING AGENTS

15 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

SECTION X – Stability and Reactivity Data

STABILITY AND REACTIVITY DATA

Exposure Limits No exposure standards have been established for

this material.
Reactivity Stable in dry air and under normal conditions but
oxidizes in fresh water and more readily in
seawater forming rust and generation of
hydrogen gas.
Incompatible with oxidizing agents, e.g., acids,
hydrogen peroxide and nitrogen dioxide.

SECTION XI – Toxicological Information

Toxicology No toxicity data is available for this material

SECTION XII – Ecological Information

This material is not considered a contaminant to the environment.

It can be recycled.
HBI or any dust generated during handling if left in the atmosphere will
oxidize and eventually return to its natural state: Iron oxide.
Avoid spillage in land or water.
Local environmental regulations should be followed.

SECTION XIII – Disposal Consideration

Waste Disposal Recycle where possible. Alternatively, it can be

traded as a raw material for iron or steel
production.

SECTION XIV – Transport Information

Truck and Rail Road It should be transported in the same way as with
Transportation other bulk materials. Local transportation
regulations should also be followed.

Maritime Transport Classified as MHB, Briquettes Hot Molded under

16 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.
COMPLEJO SIDERURGICO DE GUAYANA, C.A.
PARQUE INDUSTRIAL C.V.G. MINORCA - MATANZAS - PUERTO ORDAZ EDO. BOLÍVAR - VENEZUELA.
APDO. POSTAL 049. RIF. J-00309462-5 NIT: 0020963239
TLF. 0058-86-940880 / 942962 /942880 / 943123 FAX: 0058-86-940357

the regulations for ocean transport contained in

the International Maritime Organization
publication "Code of Safe Practice for Solid Bulk
Cargoes (BC Code)"
US Coast Guard Special Permits: SP 5-98 & SP 17-
97C

SECTION XV – Regulatory Information

OSHA / EPA Not provided

SECTION XVI – Other Information

Others Not provided

17 / 17 ______________________ _________________________
Captain’s Signature COMSIGUA, C.A.