Rockdale County chemical plant fire: County lifts shelter-in-place protocols following tests

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Rockdale County has lifted its shelter-in-place protocols after tests came back that both air and water samples were safe following a massive weekend fire at a chemical plant.

People in multiple counties reported a chlorine smell and smoke spreading Monday morning after the Biolab facility went up in flames on Sunday.

Newton County schools have cancelled classes for a second day in a row due to the impacts from the fire.

A fire broke out Sunday morning at the Bio-Lab facility on Old Covington Highway.

By Monday, the fire was out by a thick plume of smoke could been seen coming from the plant, but it reduced throughout the day.

Residents in DeKalb, Fulton and Gwinnett counties also reported a strong chlorine odor.

“We are investigating the numerous reports of a haze and strong chemical smell across Fulton County. We are investigating and will pass along any and all information we receive. If you have concerns, STAY INSIDE, CLOSE windows and doors, TURN OFF A/C & other ventilation system,” Atlanta-Fulton County EMA said in a statement earlier in the day.

Gwinnett County officials also put out a statement Monday morning letting residents know they are monitoring the situation.

“We’ve received calls from residents in parts of the county reporting haze and a chemical smell believed to be related to the Bio-Lab chemical plant fire in Rockdale County. A low-pressure system has pushed fog into the area, and a lack of wind is causing the smell to linger. The smell should dissipate in a couple of hours as the wind direction shifts,” the statement read.

City of Atlanta conducts testing

AFRD says it has tested areas west from Candler Road to Moreland Ave. close to the area seeing the haze.

“Based on the latest tests, no immediate life safety issues have been identified. The haze observed earlier is also beginning to clear from the city,” officials said.

The city has requested more testing from the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) around AFRD stations 4, 13, 12, and 18.

What precautions can you take?

If you are worried about air quality:

• Stay indoors
• Close all windows and doors
• Turn off any ventilation systems until further notice.