UW-Madison is responding to a possible lead contamination problem created by a recent construction project at Agriculture Hall, according to a release from the university.
Testing conducted this week showed unacceptable levels of lead dust within some areas of Agriculture Hall, according to the release.
Between June and September, paint removal was conducted by a contractor on the northeast emergency stairwell, but it is now believed that lead-contaminated dust escaped the work enclosure, university officials said.
UW-Madison Environment, Health & Safety is testing to see if dust created by the project also got into offices and classroom spaces within Ag Hall, as well as the outdoor playground and interior of the School of Human Ecology Preschool Lab, located in the neighboring Nancy Nicholas Hall, according to the release.
The playground and roof terrace have been closed pending the test results, which are expected next week, officials said.
The university notified potentially affected Ag Hall and SoHE employees, as well as Preschool Lab parents, according to the release.
