UN 3178 — Flammable solid, inorganic, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3178 At a Glance
UN 3178 (Flammable solid, inorganic) is listed as DOT Class 4 Flammable Solid and is assigned to ERG Guide 133. Use this page to review placard data, common hazards, PPE notes, isolation context, first actions, and related UN numbers.
Flammable solid, inorganic, n.o.s. covers a broad flammable solid hazard. The exact composition controls water compatibility, smoke hazards and cleanup.
Hazard overview: Treat the material as ignitable and potentially reactive until SDS confirms the specific substance and compatible extinguishing media.
Response guidance: Isolate the area, remove ignition sources, avoid dust or splash spread, and use dry media unless product data allows water or foam.
Firefighter training notes: Use this page as initial reference only; responders should train from ERG, SDS, department SOPs and product-specific preplans.
Regulatory context: UN 3178 is regulated for transport under its proper shipping name, hazard class 4 and ERG Guide 133. Verify current DOT/PHMSA requirements and shipping papers.
Storage & handling: Store only as permitted by the SDS and applicable code: segregate from incompatible materials, protect packages from heat, damage and moisture, and maintain labels.
UN 3178 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3178
- Flammable solid; ignition may occur from heat, sparks, friction or flames.
- Dust, powder or exposed surface area can burn rapidly and may re-ignite.
- Fire may produce irritating, toxic or corrosive smoke depending on the exact material.
- Containers may rupture or fail when heated.
- Water compatibility varies; some materials may react or spread contamination.
- Runoff from firefighting can carry hazardous residues.
- For n.o.s. entries, the SDS and shipping papers determine final extinguishing media and PPE.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Variable solid materials that are inorganic in nature; appearance depends on specific substance but typically powders, granules, or solid masses that can ignite from friction, heat, or sparks.
| Also known as | Flammable solid inorganic NOSFlammable inorganic solid not otherwise specifiedUN3178 |
| Appearance | Variable solid materials that are inorganic in nature; appearance depends on specific substance but typically powders, granules, or solid masses that can ignite from friction, heat, or sparks. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (varies by specific substance) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Variable - depends on specific inorganic substance; some may react, others stable |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3178
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA for fire conditions and chemical protective clothing when dust, toxic smoke or corrosive contact is possible.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3178 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number shown on shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish an isolation perimeter.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low areas where vapors or gases may collect.
- Avoid breathing vapors, dust, smoke or decomposition products.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material without appropriate PPE.
- Control ignition sources and avoid raising dust or spreading absorbed flammable liquid.
- Ventilate confined spaces only if trained, equipped and atmospheric monitoring supports entry.
- Use ERG guidance, SDS, labels and shipping papers to confirm the exact hazards before action.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3178 — Flammable solid, inorganic, n.o.s.Use 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.