UN 0027 — Black powder (gunpowder), granular or as a meal
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0027 is Black powder (gunpowder), granular or as a meal, a Class 1.1D explosive assigned to ERG Guide 112. It is a readily ignitable black powder entry where isolation, ignition control and remote operations are essential.
Hazard overview: UN 0027 black powder can ignite readily from flame, sparks, static, heat or friction and may burn extremely rapidly. In confinement or bulk quantities, pressure effects, fragmentation and mass explosion hazards can be severe.
Response guidance: For a UN 0027 incident, responders should confirm the material using shipping papers, placards, package markings, SDS where applicable and ERG Guide 112. Establish incident command, isolate the area, deny entry, request law enforcement and EOD support, and withdraw personnel if fire involves the explosive material or containers.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize recognizing Class 1 explosive placards, establishing command early, using standoff distance, denying entry and requesting bomb squad or EOD support. Common tactical errors include approaching packages for identification, moving damaged items, fighting fire too close and underestimating fragmentation distance. Use ERG 112, shipping papers and local explosive incident SOP.
Regulatory context: Black powder (gunpowder), granular or as a meal is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Black powder (gunpowder), granular or as a meal should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0027 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0027
- Mass explosion and rapid deflagration hazard under the assigned explosive classification.
- Black powder is readily ignited by flame, sparks, static, heat or friction.
- Spilled material can burn rapidly and spread fire to nearby combustibles.
- Confinement can increase pressure effects and fragmentation.
- Smoke from fire may contain irritating combustion products.
- Mechanical disturbance of spilled or fire-exposed material may increase risk.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Black to dark gray granular powder or fine meal with a characteristic sulfurous odor. Solid at room temperature.
| Also known as | GunpowderBlack powderPowder, sportingFFFFg powderCannon powderBlasting powder |
| CAS Number | 1336-07-6 |
| Appearance | Black to dark gray granular powder or fine meal with a characteristic sulfurous odor. Solid at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/deflagrates) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but moisture can affect sensitivity and performance |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0027
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
For UN 0027, distance, cover and evacuation are more important than close-range PPE. Structural firefighting gear and SCBA may be used only for remote exposure protection or support roles; direct approach or handling should be limited to qualified EOD or explosive specialists under incident command.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0027 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and deny entry to the hazard area.
- Stage responders upwind, uphill and outside the recommended isolation distance.
- Request law enforcement, bomb squad or EOD, hazmat and additional command resources immediately.
- Do not handle, move or disturb explosive articles unless directed by qualified explosive ordnance personnel.
- Do not fight fire involving explosives at close range; withdraw and protect life safety first.
- Protect exposures only from a safe, remote position if directed by incident command and local SOP.
- Use ERG Guide 112, shipping papers and incident command to set isolation and evacuation distances.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0027 — Black powder (gunpowder), granular or asUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.