UN 0070 — Cartridges, signal
Placard: Explosive 1.4G. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0070 is Cartridges, signal, a Class 1.4G pyrotechnic or signal entry assigned to ERG Guide 114. It is a limited-effect article, but smoke, fire and small fragment hazards still matter to responders.
Hazard overview: UN 0070 may create localized burning, smoke, popping or small fragment effects if heated or damaged. Smoke can reduce visibility and irritate the respiratory tract, especially in enclosed areas or around unprotected people.
Response guidance: For a UN 0070 incident, responders should verify the article using markings, shipping papers and ERG Guide 114. Isolate the area, stay upwind, move unprotected people out of smoke and avoid handling damaged devices unless directed by incident command.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize the difference between limited-effect explosives and higher-hazard Class 1 materials. Common errors include standing too close to heated packages, dismissing smoke hazards, disturbing damaged articles and failing to check for adjacent explosives or ammunition.
Regulatory context: Cartridges, signal 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: Cartridges, signal 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 0070 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0070
- Minor explosive and fire hazard with effects usually limited to the device or package.
- Smoke, flame or audible output may reduce visibility, irritate the respiratory tract or start nearby fires.
- Localized burning, deflagration, popping or small fragments may occur if heated.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal transport conditions.
- Heated packages may fail and scatter small articles or fragments.
- Nearby explosives, ammunition or pyrotechnics may increase the overall incident hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Cylindrical metal or plastic cartridges containing pyrotechnic compositions, typically colored powders. May produce colored smoke or light when activated.
| Also known as | Signal cartridgesPyrotechnic signal devicesFlare cartridgesDistress signal cartridges |
| Appearance | Cylindrical metal or plastic cartridges containing pyrotechnic compositions, typically colored powders. May produce colored smoke or light when activated. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid pyrotechnic) |
| Water Reactivity | May contain water-reactive compounds; avoid immersion |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0070
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Structural firefighting protective clothing with SCBA is appropriate for fire or smoke exposure, with distance maintained from heated packages. Approach and handling should follow incident command and local SOP.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0070 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement if explosive articles, ordnance or pyrotechnic devices are involved.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning articles.
- Move unprotected people out of the smoke path when safe and practical.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and expand the perimeter if fire grows or additional explosives are present.
- Use ERG Guide 114, shipping papers and incident command for isolation and fire response decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0070 — Cartridges, signalUse 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.