BHP Billiton understands that a serious incident has occurred at the Samarco Mineração S.A’s iron ore operation in Minas Gerais, Brazil. BHP Billiton holds a 50% interest in that entity. Samarco Mineração S.A is the operator.

BHP Billiton is concerned for the safety of employees and the local community.

We are in the process of obtaining more details from Samarco Mineração S.A.

We will provide updated information on the situation as soon as we are in a position to do so.