Concern over granite countertops?

The popularity of granite countertops is raising some concerns about hazardous radon and radiation emitted from the stone. While experts agree that most granite countertops emit radiation and radon at insignificant levels, some so-called hot countertops can pose increased cancer risks (radon can cause lung cancer). In fact, some attorneys think that litigation related to radon emitted from countertops may be similar to that seen in mold cases.

One report in the New York Times explains a pediatrician who learned, after purchasing a new home, that the kitchen was emitting 10x the radiation levels as the rest of the house. Granite was, naturally, in the kitchen.

It’s not all granite that is of concern, but instead only a few strands that may produce “hot” slabs for your home. The Times reports these varieties include the more exotic and striated varieties from Brazil and Namibia. The E.P.A. recommends considering removal if radon gas levels for the particular granite/stone exceeds 4 picocuries per liter of air (a measure of radioactive emission).  According to the Times, that’s about the same risk for cancer as smoking a half a pack of cigarettes per day. In Dr. Sugarman’s kitchen (discussed above), the readings were 100 picocuries per liter.

You can read more HERE in the New York Times.