The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) has released new details about the BioLab fire that erupted in Conyers, Georgia, on September 29, 2024. The blaze, which produced dangerous chemical smoke and forced widespread evacuations, has been a focus of scrutiny for months.
A Closer Look at the Incident
The fire began early in the morning at a storage warehouse, Plant 12, housing hazardous chemicals used in swimming pool maintenance. Among these were trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) and dichloroisocyanuric acid (DCCA), both of which are highly reactive under certain conditions. TCCA, in particular, can generate heat, release toxic chlorine gas, and even cause explosions if exposed to water without dissolving properly.
According to the CSB’s report:
- A fire watch had been implemented months earlier due to strong chemical odors in the storage facilities.
- Around 5 a.m., an employee on duty heard a popping sound and observed wet products, prompting concern.
- Despite attempts to isolate the affected materials, the situation escalated, leading to a 911 call at approximately 5:10 a.m.
Escalation of the Disaster
By 6:30 a.m., flames were visible through the roof of the warehouse, with toxic vapor plumes spreading through the area. Authorities issued the first shelter-in-place order around 7:40 a.m., warning residents to stay indoors and avoid exposure.
Although firefighters extinguished the blaze by 8:10 a.m., the situation took a dangerous turn hours later. Around noon, another fire broke out, sending thick black and multicolored smoke into the air. This prompted evacuations and the closure of nearby Interstate 20 until the following morning.
Timeline of Key Events:
| Time | Event Details |
|---|---|
| 5:00 a.m. | Employee hears popping sound; wet product observed. |
| 5:10 a.m. | 911 call placed due to uncontrolled reaction. |
| 6:30 a.m. | Visible flames reported; vapor plumes grow. |
| 7:40 a.m. | Shelter-in-place order issued. |
| 8:10 a.m. | Fire extinguished by local firefighters. |
| 12:00 p.m. | Second fire erupts, producing thick smoke. |
| 12:30 p.m. | Evacuation order issued for nearby areas. |
Root Cause and Safety Failures
The CSB report reveals that BioLab employees struggled to control the chemical reaction in its early stages. Despite the fire watch system in place, the team was unable to isolate the affected materials. This raises questions about the adequacy of BioLab’s safety protocols and preparedness for handling hazardous chemicals.
Historical data provided by the CSB underscores the dangers of TCCA and similar substances. When exposed to water without proper containment, these chemicals can create a cascade of dangerous reactions, including the release of chlorine gas, which is highly toxic.
Broader Impact
The fires prompted significant disruption, with neighborhoods blanketed in hazardous smoke for days. Thousands of residents had to evacuate or shelter in place, while businesses and transportation routes were severely affected. Interstate 20, a major artery in the area, was shut down for nearly 24 hours.
Lingering Concerns:
- Health Risks: The exposure to chlorine gas and other byproducts of the fire could have long-term effects on residents and first responders.
- Regulatory Questions: The CSB’s findings may prompt scrutiny of BioLab’s operations and oversight by federal agencies.
- Environmental Damage: Chemical fires often leave lasting impacts on air and water quality in surrounding areas.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The CSB continues to analyze data from the fire, aiming to determine the root causes and whether safety measures were adequate. This investigation could lead to stronger regulations for facilities storing and handling volatile chemicals.
For now, the residents of Conyers are left with lingering questions about how this incident occurred and what it means for their safety in the future.
