UN 0084 — Explosive, blasting, type D
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0084 identifies Explosive, Blasting, Type D, a Class 1.1D high explosive used in commercial blasting operations with a mass explosion hazard rating. Emergency responders must treat any incident involving UN 0084 as a potential mass detonation event and establish large isolation zones immediately.
Hazard overview: UN 0084 presents a mass explosion hazard, meaning the entire load can detonate simultaneously, producing severe blast overpressure and fragmentation capable of causing casualties at great distances. This material is sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, making any physical contact or fire exposure an extreme risk of sympathetic detonation.
Response guidance: Upon arrival at a UN 0084 incident, responders must establish an initial isolation zone of 500 meters in all directions and expand evacuation to a 1600-meter radius if fire is involved. Do not attempt to extinguish burning UN 0084 explosives; instead, withdraw to maximum safe distance and protect exposed structures using unmanned hose holders if conditions allow.
UN 0084 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0084
- Mass explosion hazard — entire load may detonate simultaneously.
- Severe blast overpressure and fragmentation.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, and friction.
- Secondary fire and debris hazard.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0084 blasting explosives typically appear as solid materials ranging from crystalline powders to plastic putty-like substances in colors such as tan, white, or yellow, often with little to no odor depending on the specific formulation.
| Also known as | Type D blasting explosiveClass 1.1D explosiveCommercial blasting agentHigh explosive blasting compound |
| Appearance | Varies by formulation; typically solid materials ranging from crystalline powders to plastic putty-like consistency. May be various colors (tan, white, yellow) depending on composition. Often odorless or with slight chemical odor. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/detonates) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally stable in water, though some formulations may be sensitive to moisture. Do not use water on burning explosive. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0084
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Response to a UN 0084 spill requires Level A protection with SCBA at all times, and remote handling is mandatory since full structural firefighter protective clothing provides only limited protection against explosive hazards.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0084 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Establish large isolation zone — minimum 500 meters in all directions.
- Stage upwind, uphill; limit personnel to essential responders only.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement + additional resources immediately.
- Do not fight fire — evacuate and isolate; let burn if no life safety risk.
- Protect exposures only if safe and directed by command.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0084 — Explosive, blasting, type DUse 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.