One year later, Rockdale residents still seeking answers on BioLab fire
Department of Public Health surveying residents after BioLab fire
One year after a massive fire at the BioLab chemical plant sent a toxic cloud over Rockdale County, residents say they are still searching for answers about the long-term health and environmental impacts. Researchers with Morehouse School of Medicine and community advocates have launched a three-year study into the potential long-term health effects of the disaster. You can also fill out this survey to help the Department of Public Health collect data about health concerns surrounding the fire.
ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. - One year after a massive fire at the BioLab chemical plant sent a toxic cloud over Rockdale County, residents say they are still searching for answers about the long-term health and environmental impacts.
The backstory:
The blaze, which broke out in September 2024, forced the evacuation of 17,000 people, closed portions of Interstate 20, and led 90,000 residents in Rockdale and surrounding counties to shelter in place. Chlorine and other hazardous chemicals burned for days as crews worked to control the fire.
A preliminary report from the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board found the fire was caused by deteriorating materials stored in a warehouse that released toxic vapors and ignited. Investigators later determined the facility had stored more than 14 million pounds of solid oxidizers — double the amount initially believed.
OSHA cited Biolab for six violations and fined the company more than $60,000. Meanwhile, lawsuits against the company continue, including a federal suit brought by Rockdale County and multiple class-action cases from residents and businesses.
One year after BioLab fire
It's been one year since the huge fire at BioLab in Conyers and here's a look at what has happened since then.
What's next:
Researchers with Morehouse School of Medicine and community advocates have launched a three-year study into the potential long-term health effects of the disaster. Cleanup negotiations remain ongoing.
The Georgia Department of Public Health will also analyze the air data to determine whether exposure to measured levels of chlorine or other contaminants during and after the fire could harm people’s health. As the evaluation progresses, DPH will also determine whether soil and surface water data are sufficient to complete a public health evaluation.
The findings of the public health evaluation will be documented in a written report, along with the recommendations for further actions, if warranted, to protect public healthUpon completion, the report will be made public and shared with other key stakeholders.
What you can do:
You can also fill out this survey to help the Department of Public Health collect data about health concerns surrounding the fire.