Brumadinho disaster: contributions to public policies and sanitation management in emergency periods

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the vulnerability of post-disaster sanitation, adopting as a case study the experience of Brumadinho, in the State of Minas Gerais, which occurred in January 2019. It was developed from the qualitative research, of a descriptive and exploratory nature, carried out through documentary analysis and a case study, through the collection of data published in institutional electronic sites. The analysis of the components gave the critical reading, based on aspects relevant to the article approach. After the assessment of the collected material, it was concluded that the lack of urban planning, the inadequate management of environmental sanitation, the precariousness of investments in actions involving basic sanitation and the lack of inspection in the Córrego do Feijão dam were decisive factors in the outcome of the disaster. The mining company Vale S.A. did not have an emergency plan, which could help to reduce damages and make post-disaster decisions. Sanitation measures are essential to prevent the spread of diseases and thus minimize the impacts on the affected population. Disasters from mining areas emphasize the importance of adopting stricter environmental policies that allow the promotion of healthier and safer environments.