UN 2857 — Refrigerating machines, containing non-flammable, non-poisonous gases
Placard: Non-Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 126. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Refrigerating machines, containing non-flammable, non-poisonous gases are equipment articles containing nonflammable, nonpoisonous refrigerant gas. The main response issues are pressure, asphyxiation, frostbite, and decomposition products in fire.
Hazard overview: An intact unit may pose little immediate hazard, but a leaking unit in a confined space can reduce oxygen without warning. Fire exposure can heat cylinders and produce irritating decomposition gases.
Response guidance: Isolate leaking or fire-exposed units, ventilate only with monitoring, and cool exposed containers from a protected position. Confirm the refrigerant type from the unit label or shipping documents.
Firefighter training notes: Training should cover refrigerant identification, oxygen monitoring, confined-space entry, frostbite precautions, ventilation, and cylinder-heating hazards for UN 2857.
Regulatory context: Confirm the equipment label, refrigerant type, SDS/service documentation, shipping papers, and ERG 126 before final response decisions.
Storage & handling: Keep units upright and protected from heat, impact, and puncture; ensure ventilation and do not store damaged leaking equipment in occupied spaces.
UN 2857 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2857
- Contains compressed or liquefied nonflammable, nonpoisonous refrigerant gas.
- Gas release can displace oxygen, especially in machinery rooms, vehicles, or confined spaces.
- Liquefied gas contact can cause frostbite or cold burns.
- Heated equipment or cylinders can rupture; ruptured cylinders may rocket.
- Most refrigerant vapors are heavier than air and can collect near floors.
- Fire can decompose some refrigerants into irritating or toxic gases.
- Exact refrigerant type must be confirmed from labels, SDS, or service documents.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Mechanical devices containing non-flammable, non-poisonous compressed gases (typically HFCs, HCFCs, or inert gases) as refrigerants. Equipment may be white, gray, or metallic in appearance
| Also known as | Refrigerator unitsCooling equipmentRefrigeration appliancesAir conditioning units with refrigerant |
| Appearance | Mechanical devices containing non-flammable, non-poisonous compressed gases (typically HFCs, HCFCs, or inert gases) as refrigerants. Equipment may be white, gray, or metallic in appearance. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (non-flammable gases) |
| Boiling Point | Varies by refrigerant gas used; typically -40C to -26C (-40F to -15F) for common refrigerants |
| Vapor Density | Heavier than air for most refrigerant gases (3-5 times air density) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2857
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Intact units may require standard PPE. Use SCBA and atmospheric monitoring for leaks, fire exposure, confined spaces, or oxygen-deficient areas.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2857 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number shown on shipping papers or equipment documentation.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and isolate the release area.
- Stay upwind and out of low or confined areas where refrigerant gas may displace oxygen.
- Avoid direct contact with escaping gas or liquid refrigerant because frostbite injury is possible.
- Do not enter machinery rooms, trailers, or confined spaces without SCBA and atmospheric monitoring.
- Ventilate only after ignition, oxygen, and toxic decomposition hazards have been evaluated.
- Use ERG 126, SDS/refrigerant label data, and monitoring results for final protective actions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2857 — Refrigerating machines, containing non-fUse 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.