UN 0486 — Articles, explosive, extremely insensitive
Placard: Explosive 1.6N. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0486 is Articles, explosive, extremely insensitive, a Division 1.6 explosive article assigned to ERG Guide 112. It is designed to be extremely insensitive, but it remains a regulated explosive article requiring isolation and command control during incidents.
Hazard overview: UN 0486 has a much lower accidental initiation probability than most Class 1 articles, but fire, severe damage or nearby higher-hazard explosives can still create smoke, debris, rupture or localized explosive effects. Responders should not treat the entry as ordinary cargo.
Response guidance: For a UN 0486 incident, responders should confirm the article and division using shipping papers, package markings and ERG Guide 112. Establish incident command, isolate the area, avoid unnecessary handling, protect exposures from a safe distance and request explosive specialists if the article is damaged or fire-exposed.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize the difference between limited-effect explosives and higher-hazard Class 1 materials. Common errors include standing too close to heated packages, dismissing smoke hazards, disturbing damaged articles and failing to check for adjacent explosives or ammunition.
Regulatory context: Articles, explosive, extremely insensitive is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Articles, explosive, extremely insensitive should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0486 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0486
- Extremely insensitive explosive article; accidental initiation is unlikely under normal transport conditions.
- Fire may still create heat, smoke, rupture or localized explosive effects depending on article design.
- Effects are expected to be limited compared with higher-hazard Class 1 divisions, but the article remains regulated as an explosive.
- Heated packages or damaged articles may create fragment or debris hazards.
- Nearby ammunition, propellants or higher-hazard explosives can increase the overall incident risk.
- Smoke from fire may contain irritating or toxic combustion products.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Solid manufactured articles containing extremely insensitive detonating substances with negligible probability of accidental initiation. Appearance varies by article type.
| Also known as | EEI articlesExtremely insensitive explosive articles1.6N explosivesArticles explosive Division 1.6 |
| Appearance | Solid manufactured articles containing extremely insensitive detonating substances with negligible probability of accidental initiation. Appearance varies by article type. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive article) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive article) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid article) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0486
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Structural firefighting protective clothing with SCBA is appropriate for fire or smoke exposure, with distance maintained from heated packages. Approach and handling should follow incident command and local SOP.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0486 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement if explosive articles, ordnance or blasting components are involved.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning articles.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and expand the perimeter if fire grows or additional explosives are present.
- Use ERG Guide 112, shipping papers and incident command for isolation and fire response decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0486 — Articles, explosive, extremely insensitiUse 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.