UN 1002 — Air, compressed
Placard: Non-Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 122. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 1002 is Air, compressed, a Class 1 explosive entry assigned to ERG Guide 122. This entry requires isolation, evacuation and qualified explosive specialist support as primary responder priorities.
Hazard overview: UN 1002 presents a serious explosive hazard when exposed to fire, impact, shock, friction or other initiating conditions. Depending on division and quantity, detonation or projection may create severe blast, fragmentation and secondary debris hazards.
Response guidance: For a UN 1002 incident, responders should confirm the material using shipping papers, placards, package markings, SDS where applicable and ERG Guide 122. 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 122, shipping papers and local explosive incident SOP.
Regulatory context: Air, compressed 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: Air, compressed 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 1002 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1002
- Substance does not burn but will support combustion.
- Some may react explosively with fuels.
- May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.).
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
- Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning, especially when in closed or confined areas.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Colorless, odorless gas compressed in cylinders. Consists primarily of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%) at ambient temperature.
| Also known as | Compressed airAirAtmospheric air compressed |
| CAS Number | 132259-10-0 |
| Appearance | Colorless, odorless gas compressed in cylinders. Consists primarily of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%) at ambient temperature. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (non-flammable gas) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (mixture of gases) |
| Vapor Density | 1.0 (same as air) |
| Water Reactivity | No reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1002
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
For UN 1002, 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 1002 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.
- Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1002 — Air, compressedUse 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.