UN 1170 — Ethyl alcohol, solution
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 127. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Ethyl alcohol, solution, is a highly flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet, wine-like odor. It is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid and is widely used in various industrial applications. First responders may encounter ethyl alcohol in transportation accidents, industrial spills, or fires. The scale of production and transport of ethyl alcohol is significant, with millions of gallons being transported every year. Ethyl alcohol is also known as ethanol, ethyl alcohol, or grain alcohol. It is a clear, colorless liquid that is volatile and miscible with water in all proportions. The CAS number for ethyl alcohol is 64-17-5.
Hazard overview: Ethyl alcohol, solution is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air, posing a significant risk of fire and explosion. Prolonged exposure to its vapors can also cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
Response guidance: In case of an ethyl alcohol spill, initially isolate the area 50m in all directions. For large spills, isolate 150m and evacuate 800m downwind if fire is involved. Use alcohol-resistant (AR-AFFF) foam, CO2, or dry chemical to suppress the fire. Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped. Call CHEMTREC for emergency response guidance. Evacuate unauthorized personnel and stay upwind, uphill, and/or upstream. Use Level B minimum PPE with SCBA and chemical-resistant suit for spill response.
Firefighter training notes: First responders should be trained to respond to ethyl alcohol spills and fires. They should be aware of the hazards associated with ethyl alcohol, including its flammability and toxicity. They should also be trained to use the correct PPE and suppression agents. A common tactical error is not using the correct foam type, which can exacerbate the situation. ICS position needs and mutual aid criteria should be established to ensure a coordinated response.
Regulatory context: Ethyl alcohol, solution, is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid. The OSHA PEL for ethyl alcohol is not well-established, but it is considered a hazardous material. Ethyl alcohol is not on the CERCLA list, but it is regulated by other federal and state agencies.
Storage & handling: Ethyl alcohol, solution, should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and ignition sources. The temperature limit for storage is not established, but it should be kept away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and acids. The container type should be compatible with the material and should be designed to prevent leakage and spillage.
UN 1170 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1170
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas
- Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Ethyl alcohol, solution, is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, wine-like odor. It is volatile and miscible with water in all proportions. The flash point of ethyl alcohol is 13°C (55°F) closed cup, and the boiling point is 78°C (172°F). The vapor density of ethyl alcohol is 1.6, which is heavier than air.
| Also known as | EthanolEthyl alcoholGrain alcoholAlcoholSpirits of wineEtOH |
| CAS Number | 64-17-5 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, wine-like odor. Volatile and miscible with water in all proportions. |
| Flash Point | 13°C (55°F) closed cup |
| Boiling Point | 78°C (172°F) |
| Vapor Density | 1.6 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; completely miscible with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1170
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
For ethyl alcohol spill response, use Level B minimum PPE with SCBA and chemical-resistant suit. The recommended PPE includes chemical-resistant gloves, suit, and SCBA. Butyl rubber provides the best protection against permeation. The PPE level is determined based on the hazards associated with ethyl alcohol, including its flammability and toxicity.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1170 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 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1170 — Ethyl alcohol, solutionUse 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.