UN 0334 — Fireworks
Placard: Explosive 1.2G. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0334 Fireworks (pyrotechnics) are explosive solid articles classified as Class 1.2G, containing pyrotechnic compositions designed to produce light, color, sound, or smoke upon ignition. These devices—including cardboard shells, tubes, and multi-break units—present serious projection, fragmentation, and blast hazards during transport incidents.
Hazard overview: UN 0334 Fireworks pose a significant projection and fragmentation hazard upon initiation, with blast overpressure capable of causing injuries in the immediate area. The pyrotechnic compositions within are sensitive to heat, shock, and electrical current, making fire exposure or mechanical damage a potential trigger for mass detonation of an entire shipment.
Response guidance: Isolate a minimum of 500 meters (1,600 ft) in all directions for a UN 0334 incident; if fire or explosion is already involved, evacuate at least 1,600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and do not allow personnel to approach burning fireworks. Fight any associated fire only from maximum safe distance using unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles, as direct firefighting operations risk initiating sympathetic detonation of the entire load.
UN 0334 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0334
- Projection and fragmentation hazard on initiation.
- Blast overpressure in immediate area.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, or electrical current.
- May initiate other explosives in proximity.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0334 Fireworks are solid explosive articles typically consisting of cardboard tubes, aerial shells, or multi-component devices packed with oxidizers, metallic fuels, and pyrotechnic powders engineered to produce colored flames, sparks, smoke, or concussive noise.
| Also known as | pyrotechnicspyrotechnic articlesexplosive fireworksdisplay fireworksconsumer fireworksfirecrackers |
| Appearance | Solid articles containing pyrotechnic compositions of various colors; typically cardboard tubes, shells, or devices filled with explosive powders, oxidizers, and metallic fuels; may produce colored flames, sparks, smoke, or noise upon ignition. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally stable in water, but some pyrotechnic compositions may react with water producing flammable gases or heat; avoid water application on burning fireworks as it may spread burning materials. |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0334
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Non-fire operations require a minimum of Level B protection with SCBA; fire operations demand full structural firefighter turnout gear with SCBA and a substantial standoff distance due to the ever-present risk of sudden mass explosion.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0334 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate minimum 500 meters; stage upwind and uphill.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement immediately.
- Control ignition sources; deny unauthorized entry.
- Do not approach — projectile/fragmentation hazard.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0334 — 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.