UN 1462 — Chlorites, inorganic, n.o.s.
Placard: Oxidizer. ERG Guide 143. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Chlorites, inorganic, n.o.s. is a highly reactive substance that can explode from friction, heat or contamination. It is essential to exercise extreme caution when handling this substance.
Hazard overview: May explode from friction, heat or contamination; These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire.
Response guidance: In the event of a fire, use dry sand, dry chemical, or CO2 for small fires only. Do not use foam or water on large fires.
UN 1462 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1462
- May explode from friction, heat or contamination.
- These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire.
- May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.).
- Some will react explosively with hydrocarbons (fuels).
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
- TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe
- Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
White to pale yellow crystalline solids or powders, typically odorless. Appearance varies depending on specific metal chlorite compound.
| Also known as | Chlorite saltsMetal chloritesChlorous acid saltsInorganic chlorite compounds |
| Appearance | White to pale yellow crystalline solids or powders, typically odorless. Appearance varies depending on specific metal chlorite compound. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (oxidizing solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes before boiling) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally soluble in water; aqueous solutions may be unstable and decompose, releasing oxygen and chlorine dioxide gas |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1462
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum with full face SCBA; Level A if confined space or high concentrations suspected; chemical-resistant suit required.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1462 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.
- Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters
- For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.
- For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1462 — Chlorites, inorganic, n.o.s.Use 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.