UN 1179 — Ethyl butyl ether
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 127. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Ethyl butyl ether is a highly flammable liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor. It is commonly used as a solvent and can be hazardous if not handled properly.
Hazard overview: The substance is highly flammable and can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air, posing a significant risk to people and the environment.
Response guidance: In case of a spill, it is essential to isolate the area and prevent ignition sources. Emergency responders should wear Level B minimum protective equipment, including SCBA and full protective clothing.
UN 1179 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1179
- 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 butyl ether is a colorless liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor, lighter than water and volatile at room temperature.
| Also known as | Butyl ethyl ether1-ButoxyethaneEther, butyl ethylBEE |
| CAS Number | 628-81-9 |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid with a sweet, ether-like odor. Lighter than water and volatile at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -7C (19F) |
| Boiling Point | 92C (198F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.5 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Insoluble in water; no significant reaction |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1179
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum protective equipment, including SCBA and full protective clothing, is required when handling Ethyl butyl ether.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1179 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 1179 — Ethyl butyl etherUse 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.