UN 0491 — Charges, propelling
Placard: Explosive 1.4C. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0491 is Charges, propelling, a Class 1.4 propellant-related explosive entry assigned to ERG Guide 114. It presents a limited fire or deflagration hazard, but smoke, heat and nearby ammunition can increase scene risk.
Hazard overview: UN 0491 presents a limited propellant fire hazard. Heat or fire may cause localized deflagration, popping, fragments or smoke, especially if packages are damaged or quantities are larger than initially reported.
Response guidance: For a UN 0491 incident, responders should confirm the product using shipping papers, markings and ERG Guide 114. Isolate the area, keep personnel out of smoke, control ignition sources and expand the perimeter if fire involves additional ammunition or propellant.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize the difference between limited-effect explosives and higher-hazard Class 1 materials. Common errors include standing too close to heated packages, dismissing smoke hazards, disturbing damaged articles and failing to check for adjacent explosives or ammunition.
Regulatory context: Charges, propelling is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Charges, propelling should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0491 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0491
- Limited fire and deflagration hazard from propellant or energetic material.
- Localized burning, popping or fragment effects may occur if heated or damaged.
- Smoke and heat from burning material may irritate the eyes and respiratory tract.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal transport conditions for this division.
- Heated packages may fail and scatter small articles or fragments.
- Nearby ammunition, propellants or explosives may increase the overall incident hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Solid propellant material typically in bags, cartridges, or assembled charges. Often appears as cylindrical or granular forms in various colors (green, gray, or black) depending on composition. May contain nitrocellulose-based smokeless powder or composite propellants.
| Also known as | Propellant chargesGun propelling chargesPropelling charge assembliesArtillery propellant charges |
| Appearance | Solid propellant material typically in bags, cartridges, or assembled charges. Often appears as cylindrical or granular forms in various colors (green, gray, or black) depending on composition. May contain nitrocellulose-based smokeless powder or composite propellants. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (energetic material designed for combustion) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/deflagrates upon heating) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid propellant) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water under normal conditions |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0491
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Structural firefighting protective clothing with SCBA is appropriate for fire or smoke exposure, with distance maintained from heated packages. Approach and handling should follow incident command and local SOP.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0491 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement if explosive articles, ordnance or blasting components are involved.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning articles.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and expand the perimeter if fire grows or additional explosives are present.
- Use ERG Guide 114, shipping papers and incident command for isolation and fire response decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0491 — 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.