In the wake of a catastrophic chemical fire and a series of federal safety violations, BioLab Inc. has announced it will not resume manufacturing operations at its Conyers, Georgia chlorine plant. The decision comes after years of explosions, toxic chemical releases, and growing concern from both federal regulators and the surrounding community. As investigations revealed serious lapses in chemical storage and safety protocols, BioLab now faces scrutiny for its failure to protect workers and the public.
In this article, the chemical injury attorneys at Kherkher Garcia examine what led to the plant’s closure, the dangers of chemical plant operations, and the legal rights of those harmed by industrial negligence.
2023 BioLab Fire
On September 29, 2023, a fire at the Conyers plant caused a massive plume of orange and black smoke, prompting shelter-in-place orders, school closures, and the shutdown of a nearby interstate. Following the incident, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board released preliminary findings that indicated improper storage of hazardous chemicals. The Department of Labor cited BioLab for six safety violations – four classified as serious – and proposed more than $60,000 in penalties.
The decision comes after the plant experienced a series of industrial incidents over the years, including explosions, toxic smoke clouds, and hazardous chemical releases that have threatened surrounding neighborhoods near Atlanta.
Although BioLab will not resume manufacturing in Conyers, it will maintain its distribution center there to fill orders with products made at other facilities. The company, a subsidiary of KIK Consumer Products, says it remains committed to the safety of the local community, despite concerns raised by its track record of environmental and public health hazards.
BioLab primarily produces chlorine-based chemicals used to disinfect swimming pools and hot tubs. The now-idle Conyers facility is located roughly 25 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
A History of Chemical Plant Disasters: The BioLab Example
The 2023 incident was not the first incident. BioLab has a troubling track record of explosions, fires, and chemical leaks. The 2023 fire was only the latest in a string of environmental and occupational safety failures.
BioLab’s situation is not unique. Across the country, other chemical plant disasters – from the 2019 TPC explosion in Port Neches, Texas, to the 2020 Watson Grinding and Manufacturing explosion in Houston – have injured and killed workers, displaced residents, and caused long-term environmental damage.
The Responsibilities of Chemical Plants
Chemical companies like BioLab are legally and ethically obligated to maintain safe operations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces numerous safety regulations that govern how hazardous materials are stored, handled, and processed.
Key responsibilities of chemical plant operators include:
- Proper Storage of Hazardous Materials: Chemicals must be stored in conditions that prevent reactions, spills, or degradation.
- Maintenance of Equipment: Regular inspections and repairs must be conducted on valves, piping, tanks, and machinery.
- Employee Training: Workers must be trained in proper safety protocols, emergency response, and handling dangerous substances.
- Hazard Communication: Employers must inform workers about the specific hazards they are exposed to and provide safety data sheets.
- Emergency Preparedness: Facilities must have plans in place for fire suppression, evacuation, and containment of chemical releases.
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in catastrophic accidents. In the case of BioLab, federal investigators determined that the company had seriously violated safety regulations putting workers and the public at risk.
Common Injuries in Chemical Plant Incidents
Chemical plant accidents often lead to severe, life-altering injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Burn Injuries: Explosions and fires can cause first-, second-, or third-degree burns.
- Respiratory Damage: Inhalation of toxic fumes such as chlorine gas can damage the lungs and airways, sometimes permanently.
- Chemical Burns: Direct contact with corrosive substances can damage skin, eyes, and internal organs.
- Traumatic Injuries: Blast pressure or structural collapse during an explosion can lead to broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and crush injuries.
- Neurological Damage: Exposure to certain toxic chemicals can result in long-term neurological and cognitive issues.
In many cases, these injuries are preventable with proper oversight, training, and safety equipment.
Workers’ Rights After a Chemical Plant Injury
If you or a loved one is injured in a chemical plant incident, it is important to understand your legal rights:
- Workers’ Compensation: Most injured workers are eligible for workers’ comp benefits, which can help cover medical bills and a portion of lost wages. However, these benefits are often limited and do not account for pain and suffering.
- Third-Party Liability: If a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or other party contributed to the incident, injured workers may be able to file a third-party lawsuit for additional compensation.
- Negligence and Gross Misconduct: In cases where the employer knowingly disregarded safety standards – as federal investigators alleged in BioLab’s case – victims may be entitled to pursue legal action beyond workers’ compensation.
An experienced chemical injury attorney can help determine the best legal path forward based on the unique facts of your case.
Why It is Important to Contact a Chemical Injury Attorney
Chemical plant incidents often involve complex technical evidence, multiple responsible parties, and aggressive defense from corporate attorneys and insurers. Victims deserve strong legal advocacy to ensure they are not left to deal with the aftermath alone.
At Kherkher Garcia, we understand the devastation these incidents cause. Our legal team has experience handling cases involving:
- Plant explosions and fires
- Chemical leaks and spills
- Toxic exposure illnesses
- OSHA violations and regulatory investigations
- Wrongful death lawsuits on behalf of grieving families
We work with safety experts, medical professionals, and investigators to build strong cases for injured workers and their families. If your employer failed to uphold basic safety standards, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the burden alone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do immediately after a chemical plant injury?
Seek medical attention right away, even if your symptoms seem minor. Report the incident to your employer, and if possible, document the scene and your injuries. Then, consult an attorney to protect your legal rights.
Can I sue my employer if I’m already receiving workers’ comp?
In most cases, workers’ compensation prevents employees from suing their direct employer. However, you may have a case against third parties, such as contractors or equipment manufacturers, depending on the circumstances.
How long do I have to file a claim after a chemical plant injury?
Each state has its own statute of limitations for personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. In Texas, for example, you typically have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but it’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
What compensation can I recover in a chemical injury case?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical care, disability, and more. Families of deceased victims may also recover funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
Call Kherkher Garcia for Help After a Chemical Plant Injury
Chemical plants like BioLab are entrusted with the responsibility of operating safely. But when they fail, the consequences can be tragic. If you or someone you love was injured due to a chemical fire, toxic exposure, or explosion, the attorneys at Kherkher Garcia are here to help.
We fight for workers who have been harmed by corporate negligence. We have the resources and experience to take on major chemical manufacturers and get you the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – contact our team today for a free, confidential consultation. Call us at 713-333-1030 to get started right now. You can also request a consultation by completing our online contact form.
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