UN 0102 — Cord, detonating; Fuse, detonating
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0102 refers to detonating cord, a rope-like explosive device containing a PETN core used to initiate other explosive charges. It is classified as a Division 1.1D explosive, meaning the entire load is capable of mass detonation simultaneously.
Hazard overview: UN 0102 presents a mass explosion hazard in which the entire shipment can detonate simultaneously, producing severe blast overpressure and deadly fragmentation. The material is highly sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, making any disturbance extremely dangerous.
Response guidance: Responders must immediately isolate a minimum of 500 meters (1,600 ft) in all directions and evacuate at least 1 mile downwind if fire is involved. Do not approach the scene until bomb disposal personnel have confirmed it is safe.
UN 0102 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0102
- Mass explosion hazard — entire load may detonate simultaneously.
- Severe blast overpressure and fragmentation.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, and friction.
- Secondary fire and debris hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0102 detonating cord is a flexible, rope-like device with a high-explosive PETN core enclosed in a fabric or plastic outer sheath, commonly found in orange, yellow, or white colors.
| Also known as | Detonating cordDetcordPrimacordExplosive cordBlasting fuseDetonating fuse |
| Appearance | Flexible cord or rope-like device containing a core of high explosive (typically PETN). Typically orange, yellow, or white in color with a fabric or plastic outer sheath. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive material) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive material) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid explosive) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0102
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Minimum Level C protection with full face shielding is required for UN 0102 incidents, with SCBA mandatory if fire or smoke is present, and responders must maintain maximum safe standoff distance at all times.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0102 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Establish large isolation zone — minimum 500 meters in all directions.
- Stage upwind, uphill; limit personnel to essential responders only.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement + additional resources immediately.
- Do not fight fire — evacuate and isolate; let burn if no life safety risk.
- Protect exposures only if safe and directed by command.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0102 — Cord, detonating; Fuse, detonatingUse 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.