New Radon Scare: Is it Emitted from Granite Countertops? 

By Tom Scarlett

   Recent reports in the New York Times and elsewhere have set off a new wave of concern about radon: could it be emitted by the granite countertops that have become so popular in America ’s kitchens?

   The Times article appeared on July 24 under the headline “What’s Lurking in Your Countertop?”  The Times reporter wrote that “As the popularity of granite countertops has grown in the last decade – demand for them has increased tenfold, according to the Marble Institute of America, a trade group representing granite fabricators – so have the types of granite available.  For example, one source, Graniteland offers more than 900 kinds of granite from 63 countries.” 

   The article continued: ”And with increased sales volume and variety, there have been more reports of ‘hot’ or potentially hazardous countertops, particularly among the more exotic and striated varieties from Brazil and Namibia.”

   The report set off a wave of coverage on cable news networks, local news shows and other media about the possible dangers of radon in our kitchen.

EPA Opinion

   Within five days of the initial times article, the Environmental Protection Agency updated the Indoor Air Quality section of its website to address the question: Does the EPA believe there is a danger of radon gas or associated radiation being emitted from granite countertops?

   “It is possible for any granite sample to contain varying concentrations of uranium that can produce radon gas, a source of alpha and beta particles and gamma rays.  Some granite used for countertops may contribute variably to indoor radon levels,” the agency said.

   But the agency continued: “At this time however, EPA does not believe sufficient data exist to conclude that the types of granite commonly used in countertops are significantly increasing indoor radon levels.  Some granite my emit gamma radiation above typical background levels.  While radiation levels are not typically high, measurement of specific samples may reveal higher than expected levels on a case-by-case basis.”

   To address the question of whether EPA itself has done studies on radon in granite countertops, the agency replied: “We are aware of a few studies that have conducted limited research on radon in granite countertops, EPA will continue to review this research,” adding: “The U.S. Surgeon General and EPA recommend that all homes be tested for radon in indoor air.  It’s easy and inexpensive to test homes with do-it-yourself radon test kits that are commonly available at the retail level and on-line.”

   The EPA concluded that the federal government “will continue to monitor and analyze the evolving research on this issue and will update its recommendations as appropriate.”

Industry Response

   The Marble Institute pf America , seeking to quell the controversy sent out its own alert designed to reassure homeowners that they are not in danger.

   “Consumers can be confident about the safety of granite countertops in their homes, say a growing number of respected experts as well as respected scientific research.”

   The institute continued: “Largely because of recent media reports, granite and radon has become a confusing and emotional issue for consumers, many of whom are afraid to install granite countertops in their homes or are worried about the countertops they already have.  Yet – according to some of the most noted authorities on granite, radon and risk – their concerns are unfounded.”

   The group quoted Dr John McCarthy, president of Environmental Health & Engineering, a public health consulting firm in suburban Boston: A considerable amount of research has been published in peer-reviewed scientific literature and all of it comes to the same conclusion: the levels of radon emitted into the air from a granite countertop are not excessive and not showing any risk for the population in their homes.”

   McCarthy, who holds degrees from Harvard University and Boston College and has over seen more the 2,500 indoor environmental quality assessments, said some new stories about radon and granite have failed to address the critical role that air distribution plays in testing, measuring and interpreting radon levels in homes.

*Source:  IAQ Magazine