BioLab Fire Raises Health Concerns and Legal Battles in Conyers, Georgia
Residents near a BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, Georgia, face health concerns and legal battles following a major fire in September 2022. The blaze forced evacuations and led to the discovery of dangerous chemicals in the area.
An independent tester hired by residents found dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the vicinity of the plant. These chemicals are known to cause serious health issues. Residents have reported symptoms they believe are related to the fire, leading to a class action lawsuit against BioLab.
The fire at the plant, which produces pool and spa health insurance, was triggered by reactive materials coming into contact with water. The U.S. Chemical Safety Board found this to be the cause of at least two fires at the facility. The sprinkler system, which had been leaking due to corrosion, failed to prevent the blaze. The resulting toxic smoke plume lasted for days, forcing nearby residents to evacuate and shelter in place.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found unsafe chlorine levels near the plant, mostly overnight, but acceptable levels elsewhere in the county. BioLab has announced it will stop producing pool chemicals at the Conyers facility but will continue to use it for storage and distribution. However, Jean Sadler, a longtime resident, demands a complete halt to BioLab's operations due to repeated accidents and health concerns.
BioLab faces a federal lawsuit from Rockdale County and a class action lawsuit from affected residents. The company has announced changes to its operations but continues to use the facility for storage and distribution. Residents and local officials call for stricter safety measures and potentially ceasing operations entirely to protect health insurance.
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