BioLab Long-term effects of chemical fire smoke
Atlanta authorities said smoke from a chemical fire at the Rockdale County Biolab appears to be headed their way. FOX 5 Atlanta spoke to medical experts to explain how exposure to chemicals can affect people long-term.
A fire at a Conyers chemical plant released smoke and chlorine, causing widespread inflammation and respiratory problems. Medical experts are concerned about late health effects from exposure to chlorine. Officials advise anyone with symptoms to seek medical advice and document any health problems. BioLab is working on this case. More than 5,500 people have signed a petition calling for the factory to close. A shelter-in-place order is in effect for Rockdale County.
ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. – More than three days have passed since a fire broke out at a chemical plant in Conyers, sending plumes of smoke and high concentrations of chlorine into the air.
Meanwhile, thousands of people in the Atlanta metropolitan area have reported seeing and feeling symptoms of exposure, including eye and skin irritation and difficulty breathing.
Toxic fumes continue to rise from the BioLab chemical plant in Conyers, and some medical experts are raising concerns about the long-term effects of exposure.
“Chlorine gas is extremely toxic at high levels,” Dr. Cecil Bennett said Wednesday.
Officials with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency say the chemicals in the air are unlikely to harm most people, but Bennett, a physician who lives in Rockdale County, told FOX 5. , said it’s a lingering concern.
“We’ve heard today about the fact that we shouldn’t be concerned, but it may not become an issue until a few months from now before this exposure actually shows up,” he explained.
That’s why it’s important for people who experience symptoms to see a health care professional and keep a record of their visits, he said.
“I would like to know that you have seen a health care provider and what your symptoms were and what happened, in case complications later arise and require further treatment and someone has to take on that responsibility.” Be sure to document that you have a file recording what happened,” Bennett said.
That person is very likely the company that started it all.
Related:
A BioLab spokesperson said in a statement:
“…While we have continued to make strides to alleviate the situation at our facility, we deeply regret the impact this incident has had on our community. Our leadership team We are on the ground and working directly with local representatives and stakeholders on how to alleviate the situation at our facilities so we can best support them…”
A petition calling for the closure of the chemical plant has received well over 5,500 signatures. GEMA and EPA officials are expected to provide an update on the situation on Thursday. As of now, Rockdale County is under a curfew from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. through Friday. 4
source:
Environmental Protection Agency. Rockdale County Government. Rockdale County Fire Department. Dr. Cecil Bennett
