UN 1446 — Barium nitrate
Placard: Oxidizer. ERG Guide 141. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Barium nitrate is a white to transparent crystalline solid or powder that is odorless and soluble in water. It is used in various industrial applications, including as a component in fireworks and flares.
Hazard overview: Barium nitrate will accelerate burning when involved in a fire and may explode from heat or contamination. It can also release toxic fumes when dissolved in water.
Response guidance: In the event of a fire, use water spray, dry chemical, or CO2 to extinguish the flames, and avoid using organic materials that could be oxidized. If the substance is spilled, isolate the area and evacuate the surrounding area if necessary.
UN 1446 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1446
- These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire.
- May explode from heat or contamination.
- Some may burn rapidly.
- Some will react explosively with hydrocarbons (fuels).
- May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.).
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Toxic by ingestion.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Barium nitrate is a white to transparent crystalline solid or powder that is odorless and soluble in water.
| Also known as | Nitric acid, barium saltBarium dinitrateNitrobariteBarium(II) nitrate |
| CAS Number | 10022-31-8 |
| Appearance | White to transparent crystalline solid or powder, odorless. Soluble in water. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (oxidizer, non-combustible solid) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes at 592C (1098F) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Dissolves in water, no violent reaction. Solution is toxic. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1446
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use Level B minimum PPE with a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and chemical protective clothing, and avoid dust inhalation.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1446 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 in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1446 — Barium 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.