Countertops that are made from granite may actually be causing health problems as a result of radiation and radon gas exposure.
Is granite causing health issues.
At issue is whether some granite countertops emit dangerous levels of radiation especially the gas radon which is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
In july 2008 the new york times published an article that raised public concern over potential health hazards of living around granite countertops and floors.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and is estimated to cause tens of thousands of lung cancer deaths in the u s.
Granite comes in a variety of colors and patterns has few seams and creates a beautiful substantial look in the kitchen.
But granite isn t always the best material out there for the job.
Radon originating from the soil beneath homes is a more common problem and a far larger public health risk than radon from granite building materials.
On one side is that dangerously high levels have been found in some countertops while arguments on the other claim that the amount of radon emitted is very small relative to radon that may occur in homes otherwise.
Vermont uses the federal osha standards for its workplace safety rules.
Whether granite countertops could cause lung cancer due to the emission of radon gas has been a matter of some debate.
Granite countertops have been one of the more popular options for kitchens in the last 10 to 15 years.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non smokers.
To reduce the risk of lung cancer from exposure to radon.
At issue is whether granite emits dangerous amounts of radon a colorless and odorless gas that is known to cause lung cancer.
Critics say that the amount of radon gas emitted by granite countertops is insignificant and is not capable of causing any health problems or damage.
However the safe level of radon exposure is not yet known to man.
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in america and.
Its presence in your home can pose a danger to your family s health.