Residents of Rockdale County are advised to remain indoors as a shelter-in-place order has been extended through the weekend following a fire at the BioLab chemical plant in Conyers. The blaze, which has already been extinguished, continues to produce smoke as cleanup crews work to neutralize chemicals at the site, according to county officials.
The fire, which broke out on Sunday, caused the release of chlorine gas from the plant, and officials have warned that residents may continue to experience hazy skies and a chlorine odor. BioLab representatives explained that the pool chemicals stored at the facility react with water, which was used to control the fire, causing the ongoing emission of chlorine gas.
Rockdale County fire officials described the smell as comparable to that of a swimming pool, noting that a faint chlorine odor is not a cause for concern. However, residents are urged to remain indoors if they experience eye or respiratory irritation. Georgia Poison Control has reported hundreds of calls related to the chemical release, and several individuals have sought medical attention for symptoms linked to smoke exposure.
Residents living near the plant have reported sooty debris on their properties. Officials have directed them to contact Rockdale’s emergency management agency for assistance with removal. Air quality monitoring continues, and additional air sensors have been deployed to track the spread of the smoke.
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BioLab has brought in specialist crews from Mississippi and Louisiana to assist with cleanup, and efforts are focused on preventing further release of chlorine. The fire damaged the plant’s structure, trapping chemicals under concrete debris, which has complicated the cleanup process.
As a precaution, Rockdale County schools will transition to virtual learning for at least the first part of next week.
Environmental experts have advised that while the chlorine levels detected are below hazardous thresholds, ongoing monitoring is necessary to ensure the air remains safe for residents. Concerns have also been raised about the possibility of other pollutants being released, which are not currently being measured.
BioLab has established a community assistance center to provide information and resources to affected residents, though details on how to access these services have yet to be provided. The company is also working with local organizations to support those impacted by the fire.
County officials urge the public to continue following the shelter-in-place order and limit time spent outdoors until the situation is fully under control.
