A chemical fire at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, has forced the closure of Interstate 20 and led to evacuations in the surrounding areas. The incident started early Sunday morning when a sprinkler malfunction mixed with water-reactive chemicals, causing a blaze that has reignited multiple times throughout the day, according to local authorities.
Latest Updates:
- Evacuations: Residents in the affected zones around Old Covington Highway have been advised to either evacuate or shelter in place, keeping windows closed to minimize exposure to potentially hazardous fumes.
- Road Closures: Interstate 20 between Salem Road and Turner Hill Road remains closed in both directions, causing significant traffic disruptions. Drivers are advised to avoid the area and find alternate routes.
- Shelters Opened: The Rockdale County Emergency Management Agency has opened a shelter for evacuees at JP Carr Gym, providing a safe place for residents displaced by the fire.
Fire Response and Hazards:
Rockdale County Fire Chief Marian McDaniel noted that the fire began around 5 a.m. when the sprinkler system malfunctioned and interacted with chemicals inside the facility. The fire was initially contained but reignited later, producing a large chemical plume visible from the interstate. The facility has experienced similar incidents in the past, including two major chemical fires in the last seven years(
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BioLab, a manufacturer of pool and spa chemical treatments, has faced challenges managing its hazardous materials. The plant stores chemicals like Trichloroisocyanuric acid, which can produce toxic vapors when mixed with water. The current incident has sparked concerns among local residents about long-term safety at the site.
Emergency Response and Future Actions:
The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and fire crews are working to contain the situation and ensure the safety of the community. The focus is on removing unaffected chemicals from the facility to prevent further outbreaks. According to fire officials, no injuries have been reported so far.
Community Impact:
This is not the first time the BioLab facility has faced chemical-related emergencies. In 2004, a similar fire resulted in the hospitalization of nearly 30 people and prompted voluntary evacuations within a one-mile radius of the plant. Many residents are calling for stricter safety protocols to be implemented to prevent future incidents (WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta).
What’s Next:
Local authorities are monitoring air quality and keeping a close eye on the facility. Updates will be provided as the situation evolves, and road closures are expected to last until the fire is fully extinguished and any remaining chemicals are safely neutralized.
For more updates, residents can follow the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office on social media and stay tuned to local news channels for real-time information.