Cabinet Varnish Hazards

Poisonous

Highly toxic, cabinet varnish poses a poisoning risk. Varnishes contain hydrocarbons, a mix of hydrogen and carbon, which causes poisoning if ingested. Anyone who accidentally swallows varnish should seek medical treatment immediately. Ingestion causes a gastrointestinal disturbance and nervous system disorders. The sufferer may vomit, have abdominal pain, burning of the esophagus, bloody stools, low blood pressure, heart failure, sleepiness, coma, brain damage and possible death, states MedlinePlus.

Inhalation

Always wear a respirator and eye protection when applying varnish to a cabinet or sanding varnish covered cabinets. Sanding varnished cabinets creates dust that can also cause health and respiratory problems if inhaled. Inhaling the fumes or dust of varnish can result in respiratory distress and pulmonary edema. It can also cause nose, eye and mouth pain. The throat may swell, and breathing may become difficult.

Additional Dangers

Varnishes often contain benzene. Exposure to benzene can result in a buildup of the chemical in the bone marrow, fat and liver, according to the North Carlina State Cooperative Extension Service's website. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that exposure to solutions that contain benzene can cause cancers such as leukemia to occur. Benzene in varnish also helps make the solution highly combustible. Always wear protective clothing and gloves when applying varnish to a cabinet because it can cause skin irritation or burning.

Environment

Some varnishes used on cabinets contain petroleum-derived and synthetic solvents. They pose a significant risk to the environment by emitting high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). The World Health Organization states that VOCs cause smog to occur; they also have adverse effects on animals, plants, the water and soil. Some environmentally friendly varnishes offer low-VOCs of 350 grams per liter. The manufacture of varnish that contains VOCs also poses a threat to the environment by emitting the chemicals into the atmosphere.