UN 0065 — Cord, detonating (explosive)
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Detonating cord, also known as explosive cord, is a highly explosive substance used to initiate detonation in various explosive devices. It is extremely hazardous and requires careful handling and storage.
Hazard overview: Detonating cord poses a significant detonation hazard, and can cause fragmentation and blast overpressure if ignited. It is highly sensitive to heat, sparks, and friction, and can detonate spontaneously if not handled properly.
Response guidance: In the event of a detonating cord emergency, responders should evacuate the area immediately and establish a safe perimeter. Firefighters should wear full structural firefighting gear with SCBA and maintain a maximum safe distance, using dry sand or earth to extinguish the fire if safe to approach.
UN 0065 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0065
- Detonation hazard
- Fragmentation and blast overpressure
- Sensitive to heat, friction, and shock
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Detonating cord appears as a flexible cord containing a core of high explosive, typically PETN, and is solid at room temperature.
| Also known as | Detonating cordDetcordPrimacordCordtexExplosive cordDetonating fuse |
| Appearance | Flexible cord containing a core of high explosive (typically PETN). Appears as a plastic or fabric-covered flexible rope, typically white, yellow, or orange in color. Solid explosive material at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/detonates) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; explosive properties unaffected by moisture |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0065
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should wear Level A minimum PPE for emergency response, and full structural firefighting gear with SCBA, maintaining a maximum safe distance and wearing anti-static clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0065 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response number on shipping paper.
- Establish large isolation zone — minimum 500 meters
- Stage upwind; limit personnel exposure
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement
- Do not approach involved containers
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and SOP/SOG
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0065 — Cord, detonating (explosive)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.