Massive Chemical Plant Fire at BioLab Plant in Conyers Sparks Evacuations and Shelter-in-Place Orders
More than 90,000 residents in Rockdale County, east of Atlanta, were urged to remain sheltered in place on Monday while businesses were instructed to close following a chemical plant fire at the BioLab facility. The fire, which started early Sunday morning, sent a towering plume of dark smoke into the air, visible from miles away, raising concerns about air quality and public safety.
The Incident
The fire was sparked early Sunday when a sprinkler head malfunctioned around 5 a.m., causing water to mix with a water-reactive chemical inside the plant. This chemical reaction released a dangerous plume of smoke, prompting local authorities to issue evacuation orders for parts of northern Rockdale County, while others were told to shelter in place. Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel confirmed that although employees were present at the time of the incident, no injuries have been reported.
McDaniel reassured the public that efforts were underway to contain the chemical reaction and safely remove the hazardous material from the building. “Once we can get that chemical out of the building and allow it to burn off, we’ll be in a much better shape,” McDaniel stated as crews worked tirelessly to control the situation.
Evacuations and Road Closures
As a result of the incident, Interstate 20, a major highway in the area, was shut down in both directions on Sunday, leading to significant traffic backups. The road was reopened by Monday morning, but residents remained cautious, adhering to orders to stay indoors and avoid exposure to the chemicals in the air.
Sheriff’s office spokesperson Christine Nesbitt reported that a large portion of Conyers, a community within Rockdale County, was affected. Media outlets estimated that approximately 17,000 residents were evacuated. Those in the southern part of the county were instructed to shelter in place with windows and doors closed and to turn off air conditioning to prevent outside air from entering their homes.
Fire Containment and Air Quality Concerns
Authorities initially managed to contain a small fire on the plant’s roof, but it reignited later on Sunday, spreading more hazardous smoke into the surrounding areas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division were deployed to the site to monitor air quality. Their surveys revealed the presence of chlorine, a harmful irritant, in the smoke emanating from the plant.
Rockdale County officials urged residents to stay indoors, advising that the best way to minimize exposure was to keep windows and doors sealed and air conditioning units turned off. Prolonged exposure to airborne chlorine can lead to respiratory irritation and other health effects. The fire was reportedly under control by 4 p.m. on Sunday, but residents were asked to remain vigilant as assessments continued.
School Closures and Ongoing Monitoring
In response to the fire, the Newton County School District preemptively canceled classes on Monday, citing concerns for the health and safety of students and staff. “Out of an abundance of caution… we have determined that the best course of action is to close all schools tomorrow,” the district said in a public statement.
County officials and environmental agencies continue to monitor air quality and evaluate the situation to ensure public safety. Once the hazardous chemicals have been safely removed and neutralized, authorities will update residents on whether it is safe to return to their homes.
For now, local businesses remain closed, and residents are urged to stay informed through updates from local authorities and take necessary precautions.