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BioLab Plant Fire Causes Mass Evacuations and Health Risks for Residents

UPDATE 11.15.2024: Partner Lynn Toops appointed to Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in consolidated BioLab Class Action lawsuits.

The BioLab chemical plant fire on September 29, 2024 has left thousands of residents near Atlanta, Georgia, fearing for their health and safety. Cohen & Malad, LLP attorneys represent victims of this incident, and are working to raise awareness about the harm caused by BioLab’s negligence. A class action lawsuit has been filed to hold BioLab accountable for the damages suffered by the community.

On September 29, 2024, a malfunctioning sprinkler system at the BioLab plant in Conyers, Georgia, caused a catastrophic chemical fire. This incident released a massive plume of hazardous chemicals, including chlorine, into the air, prompting emergency evacuations and shelter-in-place orders. Over 17,000 people were evacuated, and another 90,000 residents were instructed to remain indoors due to the toxic nature of the chemical cloud.

Timeline:

  • Early Sunday Morning: The fire started around 5 a.m. and reignited multiple times throughout the day.
  • Public Safety Alerts Issued: Authorities declared a local area emergency and urged residents to close windows, turn off air conditioning and stay inside, among other precautions, until the danger had passed.
  • Shelter-in-Place Orders Lifted and Reinstated: The initial order was lifted on September 30, but due to shifting chemical plumes, residents were asked to shelter in place again the following day.

Health Risks and Property Damage

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (GEPD) conducted air quality tests and confirmed the presence of chlorine, a harmful irritant. Prolonged exposure to chlorine can cause severe respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues. The effects of this exposure may persist for years, and those living or working near the plant face a heightened risk of developing serious medical conditions.

Impact on Residents:

  • Breathing in chlorine can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and lung damage, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD.
  • Prolonged exposure increases the risk of chronic respiratory conditions and could lead to long-term health complications.
  • Many residents had to abandon their homes, leaving behind personal belongings and property that were exposed to toxic chemicals.

BioLab’s Troubling History of Safety Violations

The Conyers facility has a concerning history of similar chemical incidents and OSHA violations. BioLab has been investigated multiple times by the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) for previous chemical fires and explosions, including:

  • 2004 Fire: A massive fire and chlorine-laden cloud led to the evacuation of 300 people and significant environmental damage.2020 Fire: A fire caused by a water leak released hazardous chemicals, causing the evacuation of surrounding businesses and the closure of a major highway.
  • OSHA Violations: BioLab has faced over a dozen safety violations, most categorized as “serious,” and at least $67,000 in fines since 2004. Violations included insufficient employee training on handling hazardous chemicals and failing to ensure proper safety gear was used.

Take Legal Action Against BioLab

In response to the latest incident, Cohen & Malad, LLP has filed a class action lawsuit against BioLab’s parent company, KIK Consumer Products, on behalf of those affected. The lawsuit seeks compensation for:

  • Property Damage: Many residents have suffered loss of use and enjoyment of their homes and incurred costs for temporary housing, property repairs, and personal property replacement.
  • Health Issues and Future Medical Care: Victims exposed to the toxic chemicals are likely to need long-term medical monitoring and treatment.
  • Economic Losses: Businesses in the affected area faced disruptions, and employees were forced to take time off work, leading to economic damages.

Who Can File a Claim?

If you or your loved ones were affected by the BioLab fire, you may be eligible to join the class action lawsuit. Those who may qualify include:

  • Residents: Anyone who lived within the evacuation or shelter-in-place zones and experienced health issues or property damage.
  • Property Owners: Individuals who own property that was damaged or contaminated by the chemical exposure.
  • Employees and Businesses: Workers or business owners who faced economic losses due to the evacuation and disruption caused by the fire.

Why BioLab Should Be Held Accountable?

This recent incident at BioLab is not an isolated event but rather part of a disturbing pattern of safety violations and hazardous chemical releases. BioLab’s negligence has endangered the community multiple times over the years, demonstrating a reckless disregard for public safety. The September 29 fire was entirely preventable had BioLab adhered to industry safety standards and implemented adequate fire protection systems.

The lawsuit against BioLab aims to seek justice for those harmed and to compel the company to take corrective actions that prevent future tragedies.

Cohen & Malad, LLP Class Action Attorneys Can Help

Our firm is dedicated to representing victims of corporate negligence and holding companies like BioLab accountable for their actions. We understand the devastation this incident has caused and are here to provide support and legal guidance to those affected.

Free Case Evaluation: If you or someone you know has been impacted by this incident, contact us for a free consultation. Our attorneys will review your case, explain your legal rights, and help you determine the best course of action.

Contact Us Today

The health and safety of your family should never be compromised due to corporate negligence. If you or a loved one was affected by the BioLab chemical fire, don’t wait—reach out to Cohen & Malad, LLP today. Our experienced attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us at 866-446-7478 or click here to request a free, no obligation consultation with an attorney.