What happened, and who was affected?
The recent BioLab chemical fire in Conyers, Georgia, has raised serious concerns about public health and safety. As a resident or business owner in the affected area, it’s crucial to understand the key facts about this incident and how a potential lawsuit can help you seek justice and compensation.
Here are the top five things you should know:
1. The BioLab Chemical Fire Was Likely Preventable
The fire at BioLab’s Conyers facility was not the first of its kind. BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, has a troubling history of chemical fires at its plants, including incidents in 2004, 2016, and 2020. This latest fire was triggered by a malfunction in the sprinkler system, which released water onto hazardous chemicals, creating a massive toxic plume. BioLab’s history of safety violations, including fines from OSHA for failing to maintain safety standards, shows that these incidents could have been prevented. This history of negligence strengthens the case for those impacted to seek compensation for their losses and health concerns.
2. Thousands of Residents Were Ordered to Evacuate or Shelter in Place
When the fire erupted on Sunday, September 29, 2024, it created an enormous plume of smoke and hazardous chlorine gas, forcing nearly 17,000 residents to evacuate their homes and another 90,000 to shelter in place. This resulted in a major disruption of daily life, exposure to dangerous chemicals, and potential long-term health effects. If you or your family were ordered to evacuate or received a shelter-in-place order, you may be eligible to join a lawsuit to recover damages for health issues, property damage, and other economic losses.
3. Exposure to Toxic Chemicals Can Have Serious Health Consequences
The BioLab fire released chlorine gas into the atmosphere, which can be extremely harmful when inhaled. Chlorine exposure can cause severe respiratory issues, eye irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic health conditions. If you experienced any of these symptoms or sought medical treatment as a result of the fire, you could be entitled to compensation. Our firm is here to help you document your exposure and build a strong case for damages.
4. Businesses and Property Owners May Have Significant Claims
The toxic chemicals released during the fire can settle on properties, contaminating the soil and affecting the value of homes and businesses in the area. This contamination can make properties unsafe, reduce market value, and result in costly cleanup efforts. Business owners may also experience economic losses due to temporary closures or decreased customer traffic. Property owners and businesses may be able to pursue claims for loss of property value, cleanup costs, and business interruption.
5. Contact CohenMalad, LLP to Explore Your Legal Options
Our experienced attorneys at CohenMalad, LLP are actively representing individuals and businesses impacted by this incident. We have extensive experience in holding corporations accountable for negligence and helping victims receive the compensation they deserve. If you have been affected by the BioLab chemical fire, don’t wait—reach out to us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and determine if you qualify to join the lawsuit.
If you have questions about how the BioLab fire has impacted you or your property, contact CohenMalad, LLP today to learn more about your rights.
