UN 1331 — Matches, “strike anywhere”
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 1331 is Matches, “strike anywhere”, a Class 4 flammable solid assigned to ERG Guide 133. It may burn as powder, granules, lumps or molten material depending on the exact product and fire conditions.
Hazard overview: UN 1331 presents flammable solid, dust and smoke hazards. Powders can burn rapidly or form dust-air mixtures, while fire may produce irritating smoke and contaminated residue.
Response guidance: For a UN 1331 incident, responders should confirm the product using shipping papers, container markings, SDS and ERG Guide 133. Establish incident command, isolate the area, stay upwind and uphill, remove ignition sources when safe, keep vapors, dust or runoff out of drains where relevant, and use compatible fire-control agents from a protected position.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 1331 should emphasize dust fire behavior, rapid surface burning, smoke exposure, compatible extinguishment and avoiding dust cloud generation. Use ERG 133, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Matches, “strike anywhere” 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: Matches, “strike anywhere” should be stored in compatible containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames, oxidizers and incompatible materials. Prevent dust release, friction, impact and unauthorized access.
UN 1331 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1331
- FLAMMABLE solid; may be ignited by heat, sparks, friction or flames.
- Powders, dusts, shavings or small particles may burn rapidly or explosively in air.
- Some materials may re-ignite after apparent extinguishment.
- Fire may produce irritating or toxic smoke.
- Molten or softened material may spread fire if heated.
- Runoff from fire control may carry contaminated residue.
- Specific hazards depend on the exact product and should be verified from SDS.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Small wooden or cardboard sticks with red or white phosphorus-containing heads that can ignite by friction on any rough surface. Typically packed in boxes or containers.
| Also known as | Strike anywhere matchesFriction matchesSelf-igniting matchesPhosphorus matches |
| Appearance | Small wooden or cardboard sticks with red or white phosphorus-containing heads that can ignite by friction on any rough surface. Typically packed in boxes or containers. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (ignites by friction) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (solid combustible) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | May react with moisture if phosphorus sesquisulfide present; generally minimal reactivity |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1331
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA for fire, smoke, dust or confined-space exposure. Gloves, eye protection and protective clothing should be selected from SDS; avoid dust generation and contaminated residue contact.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1331 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.
- Avoid creating dust clouds or spreading powder during movement or cleanup.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained, equipped and authorized by incident command.
- Isolate the spill or fire area and expand the perimeter if large quantities, dust clouds or fire involvement are present.
- Use ERG Guide 133, shipping papers, SDS and incident command for protective actions and entry decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1331 — Matches, “strike anywhere”Use 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.