UN 1161 — Dimethyl carbonate
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 1161 is Dimethyl carbonate, a Class 3 flammable liquid assigned to ERG Guide 129. It can generate vapors that ignite easily, travel to ignition sources and flash back.
Hazard overview: UN 1161 presents flammable vapor, flashback and container-heating hazards. Vapors are typically heavier than air and may collect in low, confined or sewer areas where ignition can cause a vapor explosion.
Response guidance: For a UN 1161 incident, responders should confirm the product using shipping papers, container markings, SDS and ERG Guide 129. Establish incident command, isolate the area, stay upwind and uphill, remove ignition sources when safe, keep vapors or runoff out of sewers and use compatible Class B fire-control agents from a protected position.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 1161 should emphasize flammable liquid vapor travel, flashback, sewer vapor explosion risk, foam compatibility, container cooling and atmospheric monitoring. Common errors include standing downwind, allowing runoff into drains and ignoring low-area vapor collection. Use ERG 129, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Dimethyl carbonate is regulated as a hazardous material for transportation and emergency response purposes. Transportation, workplace exposure, spill reporting, waste handling, storage and environmental requirements may vary by formulation, quantity and jurisdiction. Verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS, facility documents and applicable DOT, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Dimethyl carbonate should be stored in tightly closed compatible containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated flammable-liquid storage area. Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, oxidizers and incompatible materials, with bonding/grounding, secondary containment and drain protection where required.
UN 1161 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1161
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to an ignition source and flash back.
- Most vapors are heavier than air and may spread along the ground into low or confined areas.
- Vapor explosion hazard exists indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may rupture or explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Clear, colorless liquid with a mild, pleasant odor. Liquid at room temperature with relatively low viscosity.
| Also known as | Carbonic acid dimethyl esterDMCMethyl carbonateDimethyl ester of carbonic acid |
| CAS Number | 616-38-6 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid with a mild, pleasant odor. Liquid at room temperature with relatively low viscosity. |
| Flash Point | 17°C (63°F) |
| Boiling Point | 90°C (194°F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.1 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Slowly hydrolyzes in water; no violent reaction but may release methanol and CO2 over time |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1161
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use positive-pressure SCBA for fire, heavy vapor or confined-space exposure. Chemical-resistant gloves, splash protection and protective clothing should be selected using SDS, product concentration and incident command.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1161 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Do not touch or walk through spilled liquid unless properly trained and wearing appropriate protective equipment.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained, equipped and authorized by incident command.
- Isolate the spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
- For large spills, fire involvement or strong vapor movement, expand isolation and consider downwind evacuation based on monitoring and incident command.
- Use ERG Guide 129, shipping papers, SDS and local SOP for protective actions and entry decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1161 — Dimethyl carbonateUse 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.