UN 1090 — Acetone
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 127. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Acetone, also known as 2-Propanone or Dimethyl ketone, is a highly flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet, pungent odor. It is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid and is widely used as a solvent in various industrial applications. First responders may encounter acetone in spills, fires, or other emergencies, and it is essential to understand its hazards and response procedures. Acetone is produced on a large scale and is transported extensively, increasing the risk of accidents and exposure. The chemical is fully soluble in water and has a distinctive fruity smell, making it easily identifiable.
Hazard overview: Acetone is highly flammable and can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames, forming explosive mixtures with air. Its high volatility also makes it a significant fire hazard, especially in confined spaces.
Response guidance: In case of an acetone spill, isolate the area with a minimum distance of 50m in all directions. For large spills, isolate 150m and evacuate downwind 300m initially. Use alcohol-resistant foam (AR-AFFF), CO2, dry chemical, or water spray for cooling as suppression agents. Decontamination is crucial, and CHEMTREC should be contacted in case of an emergency. Evacuation zones should be established, and first responders should wear proper PPE, including Level B minimum with SCBA and chemical-resistant suits for fire or confined space entry.
Firefighter training notes: First responders should be trained to respond to acetone spills and fires, with a focus on isolation, evacuation, and decontamination procedures. A common tactical error is underestimating the flammability of acetone and not establishing proper isolation zones. ICS positions, such as the Incident Commander and Safety Officer, should be aware of the hazards of acetone and ensure that first responders are properly equipped and trained. Mutual aid criteria should include the availability of alcohol-resistant foam and other suppression agents.
Regulatory context: Acetone is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid, with a packing group of II. The OSHA PEL for acetone is 1000 ppm, and it is not listed on the CERCLA list. However, acetone is regulated by the EPA under the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
Storage & handling: Acetone should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and ignition sources. The temperature limit for storage is 30°C (86°F), and incompatible materials, such as strong oxidizers and acids, should be kept separate. Ventilation standards should be followed, and containers should be made of compatible materials, such as stainless steel or glass.
UN 1090 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1090
- 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
Acetone is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, pungent odor. It has a flash point of -18°C (0°F) and a boiling point of 56°C (133°F). The vapor pressure of acetone is high, and it is highly volatile at room temperature. The specific gravity of acetone is 0.79, which is less than water.
| Also known as | 2-PropanoneDimethyl ketonePropan-2-oneMethyl ketoneBeta-ketopropane |
| CAS Number | 67-64-1 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, pungent odor. Highly volatile at room temperature with a distinctive fruity smell. |
| Flash Point | -18°C (0°F) |
| Boiling Point | 56°C (133°F) |
| Vapor Density | 2.0 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Miscible with water; no hazardous reaction. Acetone is fully soluble in water. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1090
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
First responders should wear Level B minimum PPE, including SCBA and chemical-resistant suits, for spills or fire response. Splash goggles and chemical gloves are also required for handling acetone. The rationale for this PPE is to prevent skin contact and inhalation of acetone vapors, which can cause respiratory problems and other health effects.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1090 Incident
- 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 1090 — AcetoneUse 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.