Granite Study Reveals Radiation Risks for Workers

Granite, which is known to naturally accumulate uranium, made headlines last year when it was reported that granite countertops can release radon gas into homes. Now, a new study, “Implications of Granite Counter Top Construction and Uses,” raises concerns that as many as half of all granite-cutters may be at risk of radiation exposure up to 3,000 times the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s limit.

According to the study, the dust created from cutting granite contains large quantities of uranium and other hazardous isotopes. Workers who inhale this dust are exposed to a damaging form of radiation, thereby increasing their risk of cancer. Granite workers can protect themselves by keeping work areas clean and by using water-based cutting techniques, which minimize dust.

The study’s findings were disputed by The Marble Institute of America, a prominent stone industry trade group. The U.S. Department of Labor is calling for additional research and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is targeting the granite-cutting industry for continual monitoring of dust levels.