UN 0500 — Detonator assemblies, non-electric, for blasting
Placard: Explosive 1.4S. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0500 is Detonator assemblies, non-electric, for blasting, a Class 1.4 explosive article assigned to ERG Guide 114. It is a limited-effect initiator-type article, but heat, shock, static or damage can still create a dangerous localized blast hazard.
Hazard overview: UN 0500 presents a localized initiator hazard. Heat, impact, friction, static, electrical energy or mechanical disturbance may cause popping, deflagration or small blast effects, and grouped articles can still injure nearby personnel.
Response guidance: For a UN 0500 incident, responders should confirm the article using shipping papers, markings and ERG Guide 114. Isolate the area, avoid disturbing leads or damaged units, control ignition and static sources when safe, and request explosive specialists if condition or quantity is uncertain.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize the difference between limited-effect explosives and higher-hazard Class 1 materials. Common errors include standing too close to heated packages, dismissing smoke hazards, disturbing damaged articles and failing to check for adjacent explosives or ammunition.
Regulatory context: Detonator assemblies, non-electric, for blasting is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Detonator assemblies, non-electric, for blasting should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0500 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0500
- Minor explosive hazard with localized blast, popping or fragment effects possible if initiated.
- Initiating components may be sensitive to heat, impact, friction, static or electrical energy depending on design.
- Smoke and heat from burning articles may irritate the eyes and respiratory tract.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal transport conditions, but grouped articles can still injure nearby personnel.
- Heated packages may fail and scatter small articles or fragments.
- Nearby explosives, ammunition or pyrotechnics may increase the overall incident hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Assembled devices containing small explosive charges in metal or plastic housings, typically cylindrical, connected to shock tubing or other non-electric initiation systems. May be silver, copper, or various colors depending on manufacturer.
| Also known as | Non-electric blasting capsNon-electric detonatorsShock tube detonatorsNonel detonatorsBlasting initiatorsExplosive detonator assemblies |
| Appearance | Assembled devices containing small explosive charges in metal or plastic housings, typically cylindrical, connected to shock tubing or other non-electric initiation systems. May be silver, copper, or various colors depending on manufacturer. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive device) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid explosive device) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; device remains functional when wet though moisture may affect reliability |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0500
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Structural firefighting protective clothing with SCBA is appropriate for fire or smoke exposure, with distance maintained from heated packages. Approach and handling should follow incident command and local SOP.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0500 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement if explosive articles, ordnance or blasting components are involved.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning articles.
- Avoid radios, static sources, electrical leads or mechanical disturbance around suspected initiators unless cleared by specialists.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and expand the perimeter if fire grows or additional explosives are present.
- Use ERG Guide 114, shipping papers and incident command for isolation and fire response decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0500 — Detonator assemblies, non-electric, forUse 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.