UN 0333 — Fireworks
Placard: Explosive 1.1G. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0333 Fireworks are Class 1 explosive pyrotechnic devices classified under Placard Explosive 1.1G, indicating a mass explosion hazard capable of detonating an entire shipment simultaneously. These devices contain mixtures of oxidizers, fuels, and metal compounds sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, making them among the most dangerous materials encountered in transport emergencies.
Hazard overview: The primary danger of UN 0333 is mass detonation — a single ignition event can cause the entire load to explode simultaneously, generating severe blast overpressure and high-velocity fragmentation capable of causing casualties at significant distances. Certain compositions contain water-reactive metals such as magnesium or aluminum, meaning even suppression attempts can trigger unpredictable reactions or reignition.
Response guidance: ERG Guide 112 requires immediate isolation of 500 meters (1,640 ft) in all directions; if fire or explosion occurs, evacuate a full 1,600-meter (1-mile) radius and consider larger distances for bulk quantities. Responders must not attempt close-range firefighting — withdraw immediately if fire involves the cargo and approach only from upwind, protected positions.
UN 0333 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0333
- 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 0333 Fireworks are multi-colored solid pyrotechnic mixtures packaged in cardboard tubes, spheres, or similar consumer or display containers that may emit smoke and varied odors upon ignition.
| Also known as | PyrotechnicsPyrotechnic devicesRecreational fireworksConsumer fireworksDisplay fireworks |
| Appearance | Various colored solid mixtures containing oxidizers, fuels, and metal compounds. Packaged in cardboard tubes, spheres, or other containers. May emit smoke and various odors when ignited. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive composition) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/explodes when heated) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Some compositions may contain water-reactive metals (magnesium, aluminum). Water application may cause unpredictable reactions or reignition. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0333
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Full structural firefighting gear with SCBA is required as a minimum, but responders should prioritize withdrawal over engagement due to blast overpressure and fragmentation risk.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0333 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 0333 — FireworksUse 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.