Rockdale County Issues Shelter-in-Place Order Following BioLab Fire

BioLab Fire

A shelter-in-place order has been issued by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency due to a fire at BioLab, a chemical plant located on Old Covington Highway. Residents in the northern half of the county are advised to stay indoors, close and lock windows and doors, and turn off air conditioning systems to minimize exposure to potential hazards.

The fire broke out early Sunday morning, around 5 a.m., when a sprinkler malfunction caused water to react with a chemical, resulting in a small fire on the roof and producing a large plume of smoke. Emergency services have responded, and several roads in the vicinity have been closed.

Officials reported that residents in the immediate area have been evacuated, with JP Carr Gym set up as a temporary evacuation site. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is on site to analyze the plume and identify any chemicals involved, which will help determine the threat level to the community.

During a press conference at 10 a.m., officials stated they are waiting for heavy equipment to safely remove pallets of the reactive chemical. Until further assessment is complete, they cannot provide a timeline for when residents can safely return home. Plans are underway to arrange shelter if residents are unable to return today.

In light of the situation, local churches have been asked to cancel services, and residents are urged to avoid the affected area. The company has confirmed that all employees are safe, with no reported injuries, and they are cooperating with authorities to contain the situation.

BioLab is a division of KIK Consumer Products, specializing in swimming pool and spa water care, based in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Updates will be provided via the Rockdale County government’s Facebook page.

Rockdale County Issues Shelter-in-Place Order Following BioLab Fire