UN 0379 — Cases, cartridge, empty, with primer
Placard: Explosive 1.4C. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0379 designates empty cartridge cases—brass or steel cylinders stripped of propellant and projectile—that still contain a live, seated primer in the base. Classified as Class 1.4C explosives, these cases present a limited, localized fire and deflagration hazard rather than a mass explosion risk.
Hazard overview: The live primer in each case can deflagrate if subjected to heat, flame, or impact, producing localized burning and minor blast effects confined to the immediate area. Because the cases carry no propellant charge, the energy release is limited, but handling in bulk quantities increases cumulative risk.
Response guidance: Isolate the scene to at least 100 meters in all directions and treat the incident as a minor fire hazard when quantities are small, with no mandatory evacuation unless conditions escalate. Water spray, dry chemical, or CO2 extinguishers are all suitable for fire suppression; personnel should wear standard firefighting PPE with SCBA throughout.
UN 0379 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0379
- Minor blast or fire hazard — limited effect.
- Localized burning or deflagration possible.
- Smoke and heat from burning.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal conditions.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0379 cases are cylindrical metallic brass or steel cartridge bodies, empty of powder and projectile, with a single live primer mechanically seated in the center of the base.
| Also known as | Empty cartridge cases with primerPrimed empty cartridge casesEmpty brass with primersSpent cartridge cases with live primers |
| Appearance | Metallic brass or steel cartridge cases, empty of propellant and projectile but containing a live primer. Typically cylindrical in shape with primer seated in base. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (no bulk flammable liquid present) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (solid metal with primer compound) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid article) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0379
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Standard structural firefighting PPE with SCBA is required; maintain a safe standoff distance, as the blast hazard from individual primers is limited but cumulative risk rises with quantity.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0379 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement.
- Isolate area; keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind; eliminate ignition sources.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Consult current ERG Guide 114 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0379 — Cases, cartridge, empty, with primerUse 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.