UN 0379 — Cases, cartridge, empty, with primer
Placard: Explosive 1.4C. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0379 is Cases, cartridge, empty, with primer, a Class 1.4 explosive article assigned to ERG Guide 114. It is a limited-effect initiator-type article, but heat, shock, static or damage can still create a dangerous localized blast hazard.
Hazard overview: UN 0379 presents a localized initiator hazard. Heat, impact, friction, static, electrical energy or mechanical disturbance may cause popping, deflagration or small blast effects, and grouped articles can still injure nearby personnel.
Response guidance: For a UN 0379 incident, responders should confirm the article using shipping papers, markings and ERG Guide 114. Isolate the area, avoid disturbing leads or damaged units, control ignition and static sources when safe, and request explosive specialists if condition or quantity is uncertain.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize the difference between 1.4 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: Cases, cartridge, empty, with primer is regulated as a Class 1 explosive article for transportation. Storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Cases, cartridge, empty, with primer should be stored in compatible packaging away from heat, sparks, open flame, impact and unauthorized access. Keep separated from incompatible explosives, propellants and combustible clutter according to product instructions and local fire code.
UN 0379 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0379
- Minor explosive hazard with localized blast, popping or fragment effects possible if initiated.
- Detonators, primers, fuzes or igniters may be sensitive to heat, impact, friction, static or electrical energy depending on design.
- Smoke and heat from burning articles may irritate the eyes and respiratory tract.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal transport conditions, but grouped articles can still injure nearby personnel.
- 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
Metallic brass or steel cartridge cases, empty of propellant and projectile but containing a live primer. Typically cylindrical in shape with primer seated in base.
| Also known as | Empty cartridge cases with primerPrimed empty cartridge casesEmpty brass with primersSpent cartridge cases with live primers |
| Appearance | Metallic brass or steel cartridge cases, empty of propellant and projectile but containing a live primer. Typically cylindrical in shape with primer seated in base. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (no bulk flammable liquid present) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (solid metal with primer compound) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid article) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0379
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 0379 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement if ammunition components, explosive articles or ordnance are involved.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning articles.
- Avoid radios, static sources, electrical leads or mechanical disturbance around suspected initiators unless cleared by specialists.
- 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 0379 — Cases, cartridge, empty, with primerUse 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.