UN 0439 — Charges, shaped, without detonator
Placard: Explosive 1.2D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0439 is Charges, shaped, without detonator, a Class 1.2 explosive entry assigned to ERG Guide 112. It presents a projection and fragmentation hazard where standoff distance, isolation and specialist explosive support are the main responder priorities.
Hazard overview: UN 0439 presents a severe projection and fragmentation hazard rather than a simple fire problem. Initiation may produce blast overpressure near the source and throw fragments, burning articles or debris over a wide area. Heat, shock, impact or electrical energy can make the article more dangerous.
Response guidance: For a UN 0439 incident, responders should confirm the material using shipping papers, placards, package markings, SDS where applicable and ERG Guide 112. Establish incident command, isolate the area, deny entry, request law enforcement and EOD support, and withdraw personnel if fire involves the explosive material or containers.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize recognizing Class 1 explosive placards, establishing command early, using standoff distance, denying entry and requesting bomb squad or EOD support. Common tactical errors include approaching packages for identification, moving damaged items, fighting fire too close and underestimating fragmentation distance. Use ERG 112, shipping papers and local explosive incident SOP.
Regulatory context: Charges, shaped, without detonator 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, shaped, without detonator 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 0439 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0439
- Projection and fragmentation hazard; explosive articles may throw fragments, debris or directed effects if initiated.
- Blast overpressure may be severe near the involved articles.
- Heat, shock, impact, friction or electrical energy may increase initiation risk depending on the device.
- Fire involvement may cause violent rupture, projection or detonation of individual articles.
- Nearby explosive articles or charges may be initiated if stored or transported together.
- Smoke from fire may contain irritating or toxic combustion products.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Metallic conical or cylindrical explosive devices with a shaped cavity lined with metal (typically copper). Solid manufactured munitions designed to create a focused jet upon detonation.
| Also known as | Shaped chargesHollow chargesMunroe effect devicesLiner chargesPrecision demolition charges |
| Appearance | Metallic conical or cylindrical explosive devices with a shaped cavity lined with metal (typically copper). Solid manufactured munitions designed to create a focused jet upon detonation. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but water should not be used for firefighting due to explosive nature |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0439
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
For UN 0439, distance, cover and evacuation are more important than close-range PPE. Structural firefighting gear and SCBA may be used only for remote exposure protection or support roles; direct approach or handling should be limited to qualified EOD or explosive specialists under incident command.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0439 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and deny entry to the hazard area.
- Stage responders upwind, uphill and outside the recommended isolation distance.
- Request law enforcement, bomb squad or EOD, hazmat and additional command resources immediately.
- Do not handle, move or disturb explosive articles unless directed by qualified explosive ordnance personnel.
- Do not approach fire-involved articles because projection and fragmentation may occur without warning.
- Protect exposures only from a safe, remote position if directed by incident command and local SOP.
- Use ERG Guide 112, shipping papers and incident command to set isolation and evacuation distances.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0439 — Charges, shaped, without detonatorUse 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.