Start My Free Conyers, Georgia BioLab Plant Fire Lawsuit Evaluation
A fire at the BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia, on September 29, 2024, released a toxic chemical plume, potentially affecting over 90,000 residents. Shelter-in-place orders were issued due to air quality concerns, with chlorine odors reported as far as Atlanta.
Health risks from exposure include respiratory issues and eye irritation. Authorities have begun air quality testing, and precautionary measures are in effect while the full impact is assessed.
Schmidt & Clark can help victims of the BioLab fire by offering legal representation in toxic tort cases, ensuring those affected receive the compensation they deserve.
Our team can assist in gathering evidence, proving exposure, and navigating the complexities of chemical exposure lawsuits.
Table Of Contents
- Conyers Chemical Fire Prompts Evacuations, Shelter-in-Place Order
- What is BioLab and What Do They Make?
- What Chemicals Ignited the Fire?
- Fire at Georgia Chemical Plant Causes Evacuations: ABC News Video
- A History of Safety Challenges at BioLab Chemical Plants
- Essential Documentation for Toxic Tort Cases: What You Need to Know
- FAQs
- Get a Free Conyers, Georgia BioLab Plant Fire Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Conyers Chemical Fire Prompts Evacuations, Shelter-in-Place Order
A large fire at a BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, Georgia, forced nearby residents to evacuate, while others were instructed to shelter in place, according to WAGM-TV [1.].
The incident began around 5 a.m. when a sprinkler malfunction at the BioLab facility caused water to react with chemicals, creating a dangerous plume that spread northeast.
Although the initial fire was contained, it reignited later, leading to evacuation orders between I-20 and Sigman Road. At the same time, all Rockdale County residents were advised to stay indoors with windows and doors shut and turn off air conditioning systems.
Rockdale County authorities confirmed that employees were present at the BioLab facility during the early morning incident; however, no injuries have been reported.
“Our employees are accounted for with no injuries reported,” a BioLab spokesperson said. “Our team is on the scene, working with first responders and local authorities to assess and contain the situation. As always, the safety of our community remains our top priority.”
Also Read: Burn Injury Compensation in 2024
What is BioLab and What Do They Make?
BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, is headquartered in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and specializes in swimming pool and spa water care products, according to the company’s website [2.].
They produce well-known brands like BioGuard, SpaGuard, Natural Chemistry, SeaKlear, AquaPill, and Coral Sea, which offer various solutions for water treatment.
Additionally, BioLab manufactures professional-grade products under the ProGuard and Pro Series lines, catering to both consumer and professional markets.
What Chemicals Ignited the Fire?
Officials have indicated that the recent fire activated the sprinkler system, and the resulting chemical plume may have been triggered by the reaction between water and the chemicals present at the site.
- Trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA or “Trichlor”)
- Dichloroisocyanuric acid (DCCA or “Dichlor”)
- Bromochloro-5,5-dimethylimidazolidine-2,4-dione (BCDMH)
These chemicals were stored in large industrial-grade bags called super sacks in the facility’s warehouse.
Health Risks of Chlorine Exposure
Exposure to chlorine gas can cause various health effects, depending on the concentration:
- At 1-3 ppm: Mild mucous membrane irritation of eyes, nose, and throat
- At 5-15 ppm: Moderate mucous membrane irritation
- At 30 ppm: Chest pain, shortness of breath, and cough
- At 40-60 ppm: Toxic pneumonitis, acute pulmonary edema, and upper airway obstruction
- Above 400 ppm: Potentially fatal within 30 minutes
Symptoms of chlorine exposure may include:
- Respiratory issues: Difficulty breathing, coughing, chest tightness
- Eye irritation: Burning, watering, redness, blurred vision
- Skin irritation: Burning, redness, blisters
- Gastrointestinal problems: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
Long-term effects of chlorine exposure can include subepithelial fibrosis, mucous hyperplasia, and nonspecific airway hyperresponsiveness.
Fire at Georgia Chemical Plant Causes Evacuations: ABC News Video
A History of Safety Challenges at BioLab Chemical Plants
The BioLab chemical plant fire in Conyers, Georgia, is just the latest in a series of safety incidents highlighting ongoing regulatory and operational challenges in the chemical industry.
These incidents underscore the risks of hazardous chemicals and the need for stronger safety protocols to protect workers and surrounding communities. Below is an expanded historical context of BioLab’s safety record.
2020 Louisiana BioLab Plant Fire
In August 2020, a chlorine leak caused a major fire at a BioLab plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana, according to the Associated Press [4.] The fire released chlorine gas and other toxic chemicals into the surrounding area, forcing a major emergency response.
Key details of the incident include:
- Release of chlorine gas and other hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere
- Closure of Interstate 10 for over 28 hours due to contamination concerns
- Shelter-in-place orders issued for surrounding communities
- Approximately 1 million pounds of trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) stored on-site, exacerbating the dangers
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board’s investigation uncovered several critical safety failures, including:
- Inadequate preparation for extreme weather events, despite the facility’s proximity to hurricane-prone areas
- Lack of automated extinguishing systems to quickly address fires
- A delayed emergency response, with a 5.5-hour gap before action was taken
Other Relevant BioLab Incidents
BioLab’s history of safety lapses spans multiple years, with several incidents raising questions about its adherence to industry safety standards:
- 2004: A chemical fire at the Conyers, Georgia facility resulted in significant environmental concerns and safety risks for workers and nearby residents.
- 2017: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited the company for violations related to improper chemical handling and inadequate employee training.
- 2019: BioLab faced safety violations for failing to ensure proper eye protection for workers handling hazardous materials.
- 2021: A chemical burn incident injured a production operator, highlighting ongoing concerns about worker safety and protective measures.
Chemical Plant Safety Regulations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented several updates to improve chemical plant safety standards, particularly in response to incidents like those at BioLab facilities.
Notable regulatory changes include:
- March 2024: The EPA finalized amendments to its Risk Management Program (RMP), strengthening safety standards to prevent accidents and minimize their impact.
- New regulations require the analysis of safer technologies to reduce chemical risks and ensure higher safety across chemical manufacturing plants.
These ongoing incidents and evolving regulatory measures emphasize the need for comprehensive safety practices and more robust oversight in the chemical industry. The BioLab fires are just one example of the broader systemic issues threatening public health and environmental safety.
“In general, these facilities have a long history of not preparing,” said Anne Rolfes, founder of The Bucket Brigades environmental group. “They cry ‘act of God’ but it’s failure to prepare time and again.”
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Essential Documentation for Toxic Tort Cases: What You Need to Know
Medical Symptoms
- Record any respiratory issues, eye irritation, coughing, or other health problems
- Keep a detailed log of symptoms, including onset and duration
- Obtain medical records from doctor visits related to chemical exposure
Visual Evidence
- Take photos or videos of the smoke plume if visible from your location
- Document any visible residue or damage to your property
Air Quality Data
- Record readings from personal air quality monitors, if available
- Note any unusual odors, especially chlorine smells
Property Damage
- Photograph and document any damage to your home, vehicles, or other property
- Keep receipts for any cleaning or repair costs incurred
Exposure Timeline
- Create a detailed timeline of your whereabouts during and after the fire.
- Note when you first became aware of the incident and any evacuation or shelter-in-place orders you followed.
Location Information
- Document your home or business address and its proximity to the BioLab facility.
- Keep records of any official communications regarding evacuation or safety measures.
Economic Impact
- For businesses: Keep records of closures, lost sales, or other financial impacts.
- For individuals: Document any lost wages due to evacuation or illness.
Maintaining thorough documentation will strengthen your case if you join a lawsuit against BioLab.
FAQs
How do I know if I was exposed?
Exposure can be identified through symptoms, environmental proximity, or confirmed chemical presence in your area. Check for public health advisories, air quality reports, or chemical testing results for confirmation.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Watch for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, coughing, eye irritation, skin burns, or nausea. If you experience any of these, seek medical attention immediately.
How long do I have to file a claim?
The timeframe to file a claim depends on your state’s statute of limitations, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. Consult an attorney promptly to ensure you do not miss any deadlines.
What compensation might I be eligible for?
You may be eligible for compensation covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential punitive damages. An attorney can help evaluate your case to determine specific entitlements.
Do I need to prove direct exposure?
Yes, proving exposure is critical in a toxic tort case. This can be done through medical records, environmental testing, or evidence linking your symptoms to the chemicals involved. Legal experts can guide you on gathering and presenting this evidence effectively.
Get a Free Conyers, Georgia BioLab Plant Fire Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Workplace and Environmental Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Conyers, Georgia BioLab Plant Fire Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new personal injury cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one suffered health effects from the fire that occurred at the BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.
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