UN 3245 — Genetically modified microorganisms
Placard: Miscellaneous / Biohazard. ERG Guide 171. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3245 is Genetically modified microorganisms, a Class 9 biological/environmental entry assigned to ERG Guide 171. Package integrity and biosafety guidance control response.
Hazard overview: Class 9 genetically modified microorganisms; risk depends on organism, containment and viability. Damaged packaging can release cultures, liquids, absorbent material or contaminated surfaces. Aerosol generation during cleanup can increase exposure or environmental release risk.
Response guidance: For UN 3245, isolate damaged packages, avoid aerosols and contact, and contain liquids/debris. Use biosafety authority guidance with ERG 171 before cleanup.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 3245 should emphasize biosafety, package integrity, aerosol avoidance, qualified cleanup, authority notification and decontamination. Use ERG 171 and local biological SOP.
Regulatory context: Genetically modified microorganisms is regulated as a hazardous material for transport and emergency response. Storage, reporting, exposure, waste and incident-notification duties depend on quantity, formulation, package type and jurisdiction; verify shipping papers, SDS and authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Genetically modified microorganisms should be stored in compliant biological packaging with containment, labeling, restricted access and temperature/security controls required by the organism and authorization.
UN 3245 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3245
- Class 9 genetically modified microorganisms; risk depends on organism, containment and viability.
- Damaged packaging can release cultures, liquids, absorbent material or contaminated surfaces.
- Aerosol generation during cleanup can increase exposure or environmental release risk.
- Human, animal or environmental hazard varies by microorganism and authorization conditions.
- Fire runoff may spread biological material or contaminated packaging residue.
- Decontamination method must be compatible with the organism and containment instructions.
- Verify shipping papers, biosafety information and competent authority guidance before cleanup.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Typically liquid cultures or solid media containing modified bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms; appearance varies widely depending on culture medium and organism type; may be colorless to turbid liquids or solid agar plates.
| Also known as | GMOsgenetically modified organismsgenetically engineered microorganismsrecombinant microorganismstransgenic microorganisms |
| Appearance | Typically liquid cultures or solid media containing modified bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms; appearance varies widely depending on culture medium and organism type; may be colorless to turbid liquids or solid agar plates. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (biological material) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (biological material in aqueous medium) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (biological material) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; typically stored in aqueous or culture media |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3245
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use biological PPE appropriate to the package contents: gloves, eye/face protection, protective clothing and respiratory protection if aerosols may be generated.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3245 Incident
- Call 911 and notify the responsible biological safety or public health authority according to local procedures.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish incident command.
- Avoid direct contact with damaged packages, liquids, cultures or absorbent material.
- Avoid actions that generate aerosols or spread contamination.
- Contain runoff, absorbents and packaging debris for qualified cleanup.
- Do not release spilled material to drains or the environment.
- Use ERG Guide 171, shipping papers, package markings and biosafety guidance for isolation and decontamination decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3245 — Genetically modified microorganismsUse 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.