UN 3559 — Fire suppressant dispersing devices
Placard: Miscellaneous. ERG Guide 171. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3559 is Fire suppressant dispersing devices, assigned to ERG Guide 171. This entry should be verified with shipping papers, labels and the SDS before responders commit to close-range action.
Hazard overview: Fire suppressant dispersing devices has article-specific hazards that depend on the contained material. Damaged articles, heat, pressure, smoke or exposed contents may increase risk.
Response guidance: Use ERG Guide 171, confirm the exact contents, isolate the area, keep unauthorized personnel away, control ignition sources and choose extinguishing agents based on the article or material involved.
UN 3559 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3559
- Some may burn but none ignite readily.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Some may be transported hot.
- For UN3508, Capacitor, asymmetric, be aware of possible short circuiting as this product is transported
- Polymeric beads, expandable (UN2211) may evolve flammable vapours.
- Inhalation of material may be harmful.
- Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes.
- Inhalation of Asbestos dust may have a damaging effect on the lungs.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Pressurized metal cylinders or cartridges containing fire suppressant agents (halon replacements, CO2, dry chemical, or foam formulations). Typically silvery-gray metal containers, odorless when sealed.
| Also known as | Fire extinguisher dispersing devicesFire suppression system cartridgesFire extinguisher cartridgesAerosol fire suppressant devices |
| Appearance | Pressurized metal cylinders or cartridges containing fire suppressant agents (halon replacements, CO2, dry chemical, or foam formulations). Typically silvery-gray metal containers, odorless when sealed. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pressurized devices) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pressurized devices containing mixed agents) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (pressurized sealed devices) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; devices may rupture from heat exposure |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3559
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level D adequate for intact devices; Level C with SCBA if containers rupture or leak suppressant agents in confined spaces. Select final PPE using ERG guidance, SDS, monitoring and incident command.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3559 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters
- For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.
- For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3559 — Fire suppressant dispersing devicesUse 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.