UN 0491 — Charges, propelling
Placard: Explosive 1.4C. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Charges, propelling are solid propellant materials used to generate thrust, typically in the form of bags, cartridges, or assembled charges. They can appear in various colors, such as green, gray, or black, depending on their composition.
Hazard overview: The primary hazards associated with UN 0491 are minor blast or fire hazards, which can cause localized burning or deflagration. Additionally, the propellant material can ignite and produce smoke, posing a risk to people in the surrounding area.
Response guidance: In the event of a fire or damage involving UN 0491, emergency responders should use water spray from a distance, dry chemical, or CO2 to extinguish the flames. However, they should not use foam on burning propellant, as this can cause further damage and risk.
UN 0491 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0491
- 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 0491 is typically a solid material in the form of cylindrical or granular propellant, often containing 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
Emergency responders should wear Level C minimum protective gear for intact charges, and Level B with SCBA for fire or damaged charges, as well as fire-resistant clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0491 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 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.