DELTA, Ohio  (WOWO)— The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is investigating elevated lead levels near a demolition site at the Bunting Bearings facility in Fulton County. The site, which manufactures and processes lead-containing materials, began demolition in November as part of plans to relocate operations to Mansfield.

Routine air sampling collected on December 16 prompted concern after staff observed heavy dust from demolition near residential areas. The Ohio EPA’s analysis found the monthly average lead concentration near the site was 0.451 micrograms per cubic meter in November and 0.747 in December — significantly above the federal limit of 0.15 micrograms per cubic meter. By comparison, September and October readings were 0.006 and 0.012 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively.

Demolition has been halted, reducing the immediate risk to public health, but lead dust already present in the environment remains a concern, particularly for children under six according to WTOL. Ohio EPA and the Ohio Department of Health are working with the Fulton County Health Department and the village of Delta to monitor air, soil, and water. Water from Delta and Swanton public systems will be tested as a precaution.

Officials are urging residents to take steps to minimize exposure, including washing hands and toys frequently, removing shoes before entering homes, wet-cleaning dusty surfaces, and changing clothes if working with lead materials. Health officials note that lead exposure may not cause immediate symptoms, and blood testing is the best way to assess risk.

Residents with concerns can contact the Ohio Department of Health Lead Program at 1-877-LEAD-SAFE or via email at lead.testing@odh.ohio.gov.