UN 1112 — Amyl nitrate
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 128. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Amyl nitrate is a highly volatile and flammable liquid that can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames. It is essential to handle this substance with caution and follow proper safety protocols to prevent accidents.
Hazard overview: The vapors of amyl nitrate can form explosive mixtures with air, and the liquid itself is highly flammable at room temperature. Prolonged exposure to the substance can also lead to health risks due to its ethereal odor and volatile nature.
Response guidance: In case of a spill or leak, it is crucial to isolate the area immediately and use alcohol-resistant foam, CO2, or dry chemical to extinguish the fire. Water spray can be used for cooling, but it may not be effective in extinguishing the fire.
UN 1112 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1112
- 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 nitrate is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pleasant, ethereal odor and is highly volatile at room temperature.
| Also known as | Pentyl nitraten-Amyl nitrateNitric acid pentyl ester1-Pentanol nitrate |
| CAS Number | 1002-16-0 |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pleasant, ethereal odor. Volatile and highly flammable at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -2C (28F) |
| Boiling Point | 145-150C (293-302F) |
| Vapor Density | 4.5 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Slightly soluble in water; no violent reaction but may hydrolyze slowly |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1112
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
When handling amyl nitrate, it is recommended to wear Level B minimum protective gear, including SCBA and chemical-resistant gloves and suit due to its flammability and vapor hazard.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1112 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 1112 — Amyl nitrateUse 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.