UN 0415 — Charges, propelling
Placard: Explosive 1.3C. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0415 covers propelling charges used across a range of military and industrial applications, classified as Explosive 1.3C. These solid propellant formulations may be cylindrical or granular, housed in combustible casings or bags, and deflagrate rapidly under fire conditions.
Hazard overview: UN 0415 charges present a significant fire, heat, and deflagration hazard, with potential for fragment projection if containment structures fail during burning. While mass detonation of the full shipment is not anticipated under 1.3C classification, large quantities burning simultaneously produce dangerous levels of heat and combustion gases.
Response guidance: Responders must isolate 500 meters in all directions, and should consider evacuating 800 meters in all directions for incidents involving large quantities. Water fog applied from a safe distance is recommended; direct water streams on burning propellant should be avoided.
UN 0415 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0415
- Fire and burning hazard — not mass explosion.
- Intense heat and possible fragment projection.
- May deflagrate and initiate other materials.
- Smoke and toxic combustion products.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0415 propelling charges are typically tan, brown, or black cylindrical or granular solid propellants with an odorless or slight chemical odor, contained in combustible casings or fabric bags.
| Also known as | Propellant chargesPropelling chargesArtillery propelling chargesGun propellant charges |
| Appearance | Solid propellant formulations, typically cylindrical or granular in shape, often tan, brown, or black in color. May be contained in combustible casings or bags. Odorless or slight chemical odor. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (energetic material) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/deflagrates upon heating) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid propellant) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction under normal conditions |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0415
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Full protective clothing and SCBA are required for all responders; safe standoff distances must be maintained at all times due to deflagration intensity and radiant heat output.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0415 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate area; stage upwind — fire and fragment hazard.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Control ignition sources; deny entry.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0415 — Charges, propellingUse 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.