UN 0048 — Charges, demolition
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0048 identifies demolition charges, which are solid explosive devices designed to destroy structures, breach barriers, or conduct controlled demolition operations. These devices contain high explosives and are classified as Division 1.1D due to their mass explosion hazard potential.
Hazard overview: The primary danger of UN 0048 is a mass detonation hazard, meaning the entire load may explode simultaneously, producing severe blast overpressure and high-velocity fragmentation capable of causing casualties at great distances. These charges are sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, making any accidental ignition or impact during an incident potentially catastrophic.
Response guidance: Emergency responders should not attempt to fight fires involving UN 0048 demolition charges and must evacuate the area immediately upon discovery of fire or signs of imminent detonation. Per ERG Guide 112, establish an isolation perimeter of at least 500 meters (1,600 feet) in all directions, expanding to a 1,600-meter (1-mile) evacuation radius if fire is present or detonation is considered imminent.
UN 0048 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0048
- Mass explosion hazard — entire load may detonate simultaneously.
- Severe blast overpressure and fragmentation.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, and friction.
- Secondary fire and debris hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0048 demolition charges are solid explosive devices typically consisting of high explosives molded or packed in metal, plastic, or fiber casings, and may appear cylindrical, rectangular, or in custom-shaped blocks depending on their design.
| Also known as | Demolition chargesExplosive demolition devicesShaped chargesBreaching charges |
| Appearance | Solid explosive devices typically consisting of high explosives molded or packed in metal, plastic, or fiber casings. Appearance varies by design—may be cylindrical, rectangular, or custom-shaped blocks. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/detonates) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; however, water does not prevent detonation |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0048
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level A protection with a full blast-resistant suit and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required for any approach to UN 0048, though evacuation is strongly preferred over any suppression or intervention attempt.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0048 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Establish large isolation zone — minimum 500 meters in all directions.
- Stage upwind, uphill; limit personnel to essential responders only.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement + additional resources immediately.
- Do not fight fire — evacuate and isolate; let burn if no life safety risk.
- Protect exposures only if safe and directed by command.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0048 — Charges, demolitionUse 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.