UN 2570 — Cadmium compound
Placard: Toxic. ERG Guide 154. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 2570 covers cadmium compounds, a variable toxic material category. Responders should identify the exact compound from the SDS and shipping papers before cleanup or disposal decisions.
Hazard overview: Cadmium compounds can cause serious toxic exposure, especially through dust or fumes. Heating may release highly toxic metal fumes, and residues can create long-lasting environmental contamination.
Response guidance: Avoid creating dust, isolate the area and contain runoff. Use dry or low-dust collection methods only when compatible with the SDS. Fire suppression should protect exposures while limiting contaminated runoff.
Firefighter training notes: Train crews on toxic metal dust control, decon corridor setup and environmental containment. Do not assume all cadmium compounds behave the same.
Regulatory context: UN 2570 is a Class 6 toxic transport entry for Cadmium compound. Exact compound identity, concentration and waste handling must be confirmed from shipping papers and SDS.
Storage & handling: Store closed in a dry toxic-material area away from acids, oxidizers and drains. Prevent dust release and keep incompatible materials segregated.
UN 2570 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2570
- Cadmium compound entries cover variable toxic cadmium salts or compounds; exact behavior depends on the product.
- Dust, fumes or soluble residues can cause serious toxic exposure by inhalation, ingestion or skin contact.
- Fire or heating may release highly toxic cadmium oxide or other metal fumes.
- Some cadmium compounds may be corrosive or form harmful solutions in water.
- Runoff and residues can create severe environmental contamination.
- Dust generation increases inhalation and cross-contamination risk.
- Containers may rupture when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Appearance varies by compound, but many cadmium compounds are white to yellow powders or crystalline solids. Some may be soluble or hygroscopic.
| Also known as | Cadmium saltsCadmium compounds NOSCadmium derivativesCadmium chemicals |
| Appearance | Appearance varies by specific compound: typically white to yellow crystalline solids or powders. Most are odorless. Some compounds may be hygroscopic. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (inorganic solid compounds) |
| Boiling Point | Varies by compound; many decompose before boiling (e.g., CdO decomposes ~900°C) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid compounds, though some may release toxic fumes when heated) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally stable in water, though some compounds are water-soluble and may hydrolyze; no violent reaction expected |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2570
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA for dust, fumes or unknown atmospheres. Wear impervious chemical protective clothing, gloves, boots and eye/face protection; decontamination is critical.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2570 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number on the shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and avoid disturbing dust or powder.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream of dust, fumes and runoff.
- Avoid breathing dust or fumes; prevent skin and eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material without chemical-resistant PPE.
- Ventilate confined spaces only with trained hazmat personnel, SCBA and monitoring.
- Use ERG 154, SDS and shipping papers to identify the exact cadmium compound and controls.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2570 — Cadmium compoundUse 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.