Chemical Plant Fire in Conyers: What Happened and What You Need to Know

Early Sunday morning, chaos unfolded at the BioLab plant located about 25 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta when a sprinkler head malfunctioned, sparking a devastating fire that sent a massive plume of dark smoke high into the sky.

More than 90,000 residents in the vicinity were urged to shelter in place as the haze and chemical smell spread, reaching Atlanta by Monday morning. Firefighters scrambled to assess the air quality in different parts of the city, with chlorine—a harmful irritant—being detected near the BioLab plant in Conyers.

Authorities advised those affected to turn off their air conditioning, close their windows and doors, and stay indoors until further notice. In Atlanta, the situation remained unclear as officials investigated the cause of the environmental changes triggered by the fire.

Although the fire was extinguished by 4 p.m. on Sunday, concerns persisted as the plume continued to pose a threat, prompting the closure of major roadways and government offices. Residents in northern Rockdale County were evacuated while others were instructed to stay put, amplifying the sense of urgency surrounding the situation.

The mishap at the BioLab plant resulted in a chemical reaction that led to the emission of hazardous substances. Thankfully, no injuries were reported among employees, indicating a stroke of luck amidst the chaos.

BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, affirmed its commitment to public safety and ongoing collaboration with authorities to address the crisis swiftly and effectively. Specialized teams were dispatched to support local responders in containing the incident and minimizing its impact on the community.

As the investigation unfolds and efforts to remediate the situation intensify, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols to mitigate any potential risks associated with the aftermath of the chemical plant fire.