UN 3009 — Copper based pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable
Placard: Toxic. ERG Guide 131. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Copper based pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable is a broad pesticide formulation entry. Treat it as a toxic liquid and use the label, SDS and shipping papers to identify the active ingredient, solvent and response limits.
Hazard overview: The main hazards are toxic exposure and contaminated runoff. Flammable solvent vapors add flashback and ignition hazards. Do not rely on the UN name alone for medical or cleanup decisions.
Response guidance: Isolate the area, eliminate ignition sources, stop the leak only if safe and contain runoff. Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or CO2 for fire; use water spray mainly for cooling containers.
Firefighter training notes: Train responders to identify UN 3009 from shipping papers, confirm the SDS, choose PPE from monitoring results and avoid relying on generic placard information alone.
Regulatory context: UN 3009 is listed for transport under hazard class 6 with ERG Guide 131. Confirm packing group, quantity limits and any special provisions from current DOT/TDG/IMDG documents.
Storage & handling: Store only in approved, labeled containers or packaging. Keep incompatible materials separated, control ignition sources where applicable and protect packages from heat, damage and unauthorized access.
UN 3009 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3009
- Broad copper based pesticide liquid entry; active ingredient and solvent carrier must be confirmed from SDS and labels.
- Flammable solvent carrier may ignite from heat, sparks or flame; vapors can flash back.
- May be fatal or seriously harmful if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin.
- Liquid or mist can irritate or burn skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
- Fire may produce toxic, corrosive or irritating decomposition products.
- Spill runoff can contaminate soil, drains and waterways.
- Vapors or aerosols may collect in low or confined areas depending on the solvent system.
- Containers may rupture when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Blue to blue-green liquid with a characteristic metallic or chemical odor. May appear as a suspension or solution containing copper salts such as copper sulfate, copper oxychloride, or copper hydroxide in organic solvents.
| Also known as | Copper fungicide solutionCupric pesticide liquidCopper-based agricultural chemicalCopper compound pesticide formulation |
| Appearance | Blue to blue-green liquid with a characteristic metallic or chemical odor. May appear as a suspension or solution containing copper salts such as copper sulfate, copper oxychloride, or copper hydroxide in organic solvents. |
| Flash Point | 23-61C (73-142F) depending on formulation and solvent carrier |
| Boiling Point | Variable, typically 100-150C (212-302F) depending on solvent base |
| Vapor Density | Heavier than air (typically >1.5 relative to air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, though may form emulsions or suspensions; copper salts are slightly soluble |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3009
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
SCBA and chemical-resistant clothing are required for releases. Use Level A for unknown/high vapor conditions; Level B may be used when monitoring confirms lower risk.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3009 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number listed on the shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish hot, warm and cold zones.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low areas where vapors may collect.
- Avoid breathing vapors, fumes, dust or spray mist; prevent skin and eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged packages or containers without appropriate PPE and monitoring.
- Ventilate confined spaces only when personnel are trained, equipped and monitored.
- Use the ERG guide, SDS, shipping papers and product labels to confirm final tactics.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3009 — Copper based pesticide, liquid, poisonouUse 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.