UN 3295 — Hydrocarbons, liquid, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 128. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Hydrocarbons, liquid, n.o.s. is a Class 3 flammable liquid entry for petroleum or hydrocarbon mixtures whose exact composition must be confirmed by SDS or shipping papers.
Hazard overview: Hydrocarbon vapors can form explosive mixtures with air, travel to ignition sources and flash back. Vapors are usually heavier than air and collect in low or confined areas.
Response guidance: Stop ignition sources, isolate the area and use foam, dry chemical, CO2 or water fog for cooling. Prevent entry into sewers because runoff may create fire or explosion hazards.
UN 3295 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3295
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas.
- Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Clear to amber liquid with a petroleum or gasoline-like odor. Physical properties vary widely depending on specific hydrocarbon composition.
| Also known as | Liquid hydrocarbonsPetroleum hydrocarbonsHydrocarbon mixtureFlammable hydrocarbon liquidAliphatic hydrocarbons |
| Appearance | Clear to amber liquid with a petroleum or gasoline-like odor. Physical properties vary widely depending on specific hydrocarbon composition. |
| Flash Point | Varies widely, typically -18C to 23C (0F to 73F) depending on composition |
| Boiling Point | Varies widely, typically 30C to 200C (86F to 392F) depending on composition |
| Vapor Density | Heavier than air (typically 2-4), vapors accumulate in low areas |
| Water Reactivity | Insoluble in water, floats on surface. No significant reaction with water. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3295
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum for vapor exposures; SCBA required in enclosed spaces or high concentrations; chemical-resistant gloves and clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3295 Incident
- CALL 911, then contact the emergency response telephone number shown on shipping papers, if available.
- 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 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3295 — Hydrocarbons, liquid, n.o.s.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.