UN 1171 — Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 127. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is a highly flammable liquid used in various industrial applications. It is miscible with water and most organic solvents.
Hazard overview: Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is also toxic if ingested or inhaled.
Response guidance: In case of fire, use alcohol-resistant foam, CO2, dry chemical, or water spray for cooling. Evacuate the area and provide ventilation.
UN 1171 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1171
- 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
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild, sweet ether-like odor.
| Also known as | 2-EthoxyethanolEthyl cellosolveCellosolveEGEEEthyl glycolOxitol |
| CAS Number | 110-80-5 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid with a mild, sweet ether-like odor. Miscible with water and most organic solvents. |
| Flash Point | 43°C (110°F) |
| Boiling Point | 135°C (275°F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.1 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; completely miscible with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1171
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Wear Level B minimum personal protective equipment, including a full-face respirator, chemical-resistant gloves, and suit.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1171 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 1171 — Ethylene glycol monoethyl 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.