Georgia BioLab Fire Shelter-in-Place Advisory

Following the fire at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, local authorities issued an evacuation order for approximately 17,000 residents and a shelter-in-place directive for over 90,000 people in Rockdale County. The fire was linked to a chemical known as trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), which can react violently with water, resulting in a toxic plume that affected air quality. As a precaution, schools in the area transitioned to virtual learning until October 18 to ensure the safety of students and staff. The incident has prompted local congressional leaders to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement stricter regulations regarding the storage and management of reactive chemicals like TCCA, highlighting ongoing safety concerns related to the facility’s operations in a rapidly growing residential area.

Background of the Incident

• Cause of the Fire: Initial investigations indicated that the fire was caused by a broken sprinkler head that interacted with TCCA, leading to a chemical reaction.
• Emergency Response: First responders managed to extinguish the fire, but it reignited, necessitating further containment efforts. The Rockdale County Fire Chief noted that the chemical reaction could affect the area for several days.
• Health Risks: The release of chemicals raised alarms about potential health risks, including respiratory issues and long-term health conditions.

Legislative Response

In response to the incident, several members of Georgia’s congressional delegation have called on the EPA to address regulatory gaps concerning TCCA. They argue that the current oversight is insufficient to prevent such dangerous occurrences, particularly in light of the facility’s proximity to populated areas. The lawmakers are advocating for the inclusion of TCCA under the Risk Management Program Rule, which would enhance safety protocols and emergency preparedness for facilities handling hazardous chemicals.