UN 1020 — Chloropentafluoroethane
Placard: Non-Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 126. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Chloropentafluoroethane is a colorless, odorless liquefied gas, shipped as a liquefied compressed gas under pressure. It is used in various industrial applications, but requires careful handling due to its potential hazards.
Hazard overview: Chloropentafluoroethane is a non-flammable gas, but some may burn, and containers may explode when heated, posing a significant threat to people and property. It can also cause frostbite and other cold-related injuries if not handled properly.
Response guidance: In case of a chloropentafluoroethane leak, isolate the area immediately, and protect from heat and fire sources. Use CO2, dry chemical, or water spray to cool containers, and wear Level B minimum protective equipment, including SCBA and cold-resistant gloves for handling cylinders.
UN 1020 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1020
- Some may burn but none ignite readily.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
- Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning, especially when in closed or confined areas.
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite.
- Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Chloropentafluoroethane is a colorless, odorless liquefied gas, and does not react significantly with water.
| Also known as | CFC-115Refrigerant 115R-115Genetron 115PentafluorochloroethaneMonochloropentafluoroethane |
| CAS Number | 76-15-3 |
| Appearance | Colorless, odorless liquefied gas. Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas under pressure. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (non-flammable gas) |
| Boiling Point | -39C (-38F) |
| Vapor Density | 5.2 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1020
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum protective equipment, including SCBA and cold-resistant gloves for handling cylinders, is required when handling chloropentafluoroethane in confined spaces or areas with potential for leaks.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1020 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 for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1020 — ChloropentafluoroethaneUse 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.