The facility began operations in 1900, and initially manufactured garden hoes and pitchforks. The facility began to manufacture electronics in 1911. Electronic equipment manufactured at the Site included automotive horns, electric radios, television receivers, sonobouys (devices used to detect submarines) and printed circuit boards. The Sparton Electronics Corporation ceased operations at the facility and sold its Jackson, Michigan property in June 2010. The purchaser of the property intended to salvage the building for its scrap content.
According to Blackman Township representatives, Sparton Electronics removed manufacturing chemicals and wastes from the facility prior to the property transfer. However, asbestos containing materials (ACM) were present on Site following the transfer. An asbestos survey conducted in February 2008 on behalf of Sparton Electronics by a consulting company, documented several pipe wraps and floor muds having asbestos greater than 1 percent (%) ACM.
On December 9, 2010, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) conducted an inspection of salvage operations at the Site. MIOSHA documented the presence of asbestos containing materials (ACM), and that employees did not use proper work practices, personal protective equipment (PPE) or respiratory protection for potential ACM when conducting salvage operations. During a December 2010 sampling event by MIOSHA, up to 15% asbestos containing material (ACM) in insulation was found at the Site.
On March 26, 2011, a structural fire leveled the manufacturing portion of the Site and damaged the three story office complex. At the time of the fire, the perimeter of the site was not secured. On April 6, 2011, MDEQ requested the assistance of EPA’s Superfund Division to secure and evaluate the Site.
