UN 1324 — Films, nitrocellulose base
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 1324 is Films, nitrocellulose base, a nitrocellulose-based Class 4 flammable solid assigned to ERG Guide 133. It can burn rapidly and produce heavy toxic smoke, especially in storage or archive fire conditions.
Hazard overview: UN 1324 presents rapid-burning nitrocellulose fire hazards. Heat or sparks can ignite the film, and fire may produce nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and dense smoke; large quantities may burn violently.
Response guidance: For a UN 1324 incident, responders should confirm the product using shipping papers, container markings, SDS and ERG Guide 133. Establish incident command, isolate the area, stay upwind and uphill, remove ignition sources when safe, keep vapors, dust or runoff out of drains where relevant, and use compatible fire-control agents from a protected position.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 1324 should emphasize dust fire behavior, rapid surface burning, smoke exposure, compatible extinguishment and avoiding dust cloud generation. Use ERG 133, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Films, nitrocellulose base is regulated as a hazardous material for transportation and emergency response purposes. Transportation, workplace exposure, spill reporting, waste handling, storage and environmental requirements may vary by formulation, quantity and jurisdiction. Verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS, facility documents and applicable DOT, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Films, nitrocellulose base should be stored in compatible containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames, oxidizers and incompatible materials. Prevent dust release, friction, impact and unauthorized access.
UN 1324 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1324
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE nitrocellulose-based solid; may ignite readily from heat, sparks or flames.
- Can burn rapidly with intense heat and difficult-to-control flame spread.
- Confined or large quantities may create pressure, violent burning or fragment hazards.
- Fire may produce irritating and toxic gases including nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.
- May re-ignite after apparent extinguishment if hot material remains.
- Smoke exposure may be significant in storage or archive fires.
- Avoid unnecessary handling of fire-damaged material.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Solid film material, typically clear to amber colored with a characteristic camphor-like odor. Highly flammable solid at room temperature consisting of cellulose nitrate polymer base.
| Also known as | Nitrocellulose filmCellulose nitrate filmMotion picture film (nitrate base)X-ray film (nitrate base)Pyroxylin film |
| Appearance | Solid film material, typically clear to amber colored with a characteristic camphor-like odor. Highly flammable solid at room temperature consisting of cellulose nitrate polymer base. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (flammable solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes before boiling) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1324
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA for fire, smoke, dust or confined-space exposure. Gloves, eye protection and protective clothing should be selected from SDS; avoid dust generation and contaminated residue contact.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1324 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Avoid creating dust clouds or spreading powder during movement or cleanup.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained, equipped and authorized by incident command.
- Isolate the spill or fire area and expand the perimeter if large quantities, dust clouds or fire involvement are present.
- Use ERG Guide 133, shipping papers, SDS and incident command for protective actions and entry decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1324 — Films, nitrocellulose baseUse 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.