What Happened?
A fire broke out on September 29, 2024, at the BioLab chemical facility in Conyers, Rockdale County, after a sprinkler malfunctioned, causing water to mix with a reactive chemical and create a large plume of smoke.
This incident led to the evacuation of around 17,000 residents and the closure of several roads, including I-20. Due to ongoing concerns about the smoke, a countywide shelter-in-place order was issued. The smoke, now a chemical reaction, remains visible and poses ongoing concerns. The exact extent of exposure is still under investigation.
Beyond the Smoke
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division (EPD) detected chlorine in the air following the incident.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chlorine is a harmful irritant that can cause burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and mouth. Exposure can also lead to coughing, choking, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness.
On September 30, air quality monitors around metro Atlanta detected moderate to high levels of small particulate pollution. These tiny particles can penetrate the lungs, exacerbating conditions like asthma. They can also enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
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Rhon Jones Toxic Torts Section Head Montgomery, AL -
Connor Chase Associate Montgomery, AL -
Travis Chin Staff Attorney Montgomery, AL
Chemical Reach and Safety Recommendations
The fire’s impact extended well beyond Rockdale County. Residents in Gwinnett, DeKalb, Fulton, and other neighboring counties reported seeing a pervasive haze and experiencing symptoms from chemical irritants.
- Stay informed about air quality updates if you are within a 50-mile radius of Rockdale County.
- Follow local authorities’ instructions regarding sheltering in place.
- Turn off air conditioning and keep windows and doors closed if the chemical cloud is near your area.
BioLab’s Hazardous History
This is the third major incident at the BioLab plant in the past seven years. Previous incidents involved the release of hazardous chemicals, leading to evacuations and road closures.
- 2020: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a chlorine vapor cloud emerged from the BioLab facility, closing I-20 for over six hours. This incident, caused by a chemical reaction, prompted the evacuation of nearby businesses and a shelter-in-place advisory for residents.
- 2016: The Rockdale County Fire Department dealt with a chemical decomposition event involving a smoking swimming pool chemical at the same facility.
- 2004: A massive fire broke out at a BioLab warehouse. This fire forced thousands of residents to evacuate, with many seeking refuge at schools.
