In Conyers, Georgia, federal investigators have concluded that a company improperly handled hazardous chemicals, which contributed to a major fire last year, resulting in a toxic chemical cloud over the region. The incident, occurring on September 29, led to the temporary closure of a significant highway, disrupted schooling, and prompted widespread shelter-in-place orders for thousands of inhabitants in Atlanta’s suburbs.
BioLab Inc. is facing scrutiny, having been cited for six violations – four of which are deemed serious – by the U.S. Department of Labor. This has resulted in proposed penalties amounting to over $60,000. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a part of the Labor Department, conducted the investigation, revealing that the improper storage of hazardous materials was the underlying cause of the fire.
However, BioLab disputes some findings, claiming in a statement that OSHA’s investigation did not focus specifically on what caused the incident and that the federal agency had not provided the company with any concrete evidence about the fire’s origins as stated in the public release. Despite this, the company expressed its commitment to operational safety and emphasized its cooperation with OSHA.
BioLab, with a few days to contest or comply with the penalties, expressed willingness to continue working with federal authorities to enhance safety measures. “We remain committed to improving our procedures in collaboration with OSHA to ensure heightened safety in the future,” the company stated.
The fire initially erupted when a BioLab employee noticed a “popping sound,” followed by the discovery that a water-reactive product had become wet. This occurred due to a malfunctioning sprinkler, according to the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board report from November. Attempts to contain the situation failed, and emergency services were called as large toxic plumes filled the area.
A subsequent blaze resulted in “thick black smoke” and colored plumes, leading to structural damage with parts of the building collapsing. The site remained an “active emergency response scene” for nearly a month, with orders for over 90,000 locals to remain indoors.
BioLab, specializing in chemicals for sanitizing water in pools and hot tubs, operates under KIK Consumer Products, based in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Federal authorities have highlighted this product line in the wake of the incident, underscoring the need for careful chemical storage and safety protocols.