UN 1109 — Amyl formates
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Amyl formates are highly flammable liquids that can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames. They have a fruity, plum-like odor and are lighter than water, making them a significant fire hazard.
Hazard overview: Amyl formates are highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air, making them a significant hazard in the event of a spill or leak. Vapors can also ignite easily, causing a rapid spread of fire.
Response guidance: In the event of an amyl formates spill, evacuate the area immediately and isolate the spill to prevent further ignition. Firefighters should use alcohol-resistant foam, CO2, or dry chemical to extinguish the fire, and wear Level B protective gear with SCBA.
UN 1109 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1109
- 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
Amyl formates are clear, colorless to pale yellow liquids with a fruity, plum-like odor, and are immiscible with water, floating on its surface.
| Also known as | pentyl formaten-amyl formatepentyl methanoateformic acid pentyl esteramyl methanoate |
| CAS Number | 638-49-3 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, plum-like odor. Lighter than water and immiscible with water. |
| Flash Point | 26°C (79°F) |
| Boiling Point | 130-160°C (266-320°F) depending on isomer |
| Vapor Density | 4.0 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but immiscible and will float on surface. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1109
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should wear Level B minimum protective gear with SCBA and chemical-resistant suits, gloves, and boots to prevent skin contact and inhalation of vapors.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1109 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 1109 — Amyl formatesUse 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.