UN 3176 — Flammable solid, organic, molten, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3176 At a Glance
UN 3176 (Flammable solid, organic, molten) 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, organic, molten, 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 3176 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 3176 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3176
- Flammable solid; ignition may occur from heat, sparks, friction or flames.
- Molten material can cause severe thermal burns and violent spattering if contacted by water.
- 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
Molten organic material maintained at elevated temperature above its melting point. Appearance varies depending on specific substance but typically viscous liquid state with potential vapors or fumes.
| Also known as | Molten organic flammable solidHeated flammable organic materialOrganic flammable solid N.O.S.Hot flammable organic substance |
| Appearance | Molten organic material maintained at elevated temperature above its melting point. Appearance varies depending on specific substance but typically viscous liquid state with potential vapors or fumes. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (already molten and above ignition temperature) |
| Boiling Point | Variable depending on specific organic material |
| Vapor Density | Variable, typically heavier than air when vapors present |
| Water Reactivity | Generally no violent reaction, but water contact may cause violent boiling, spattering, and steam generation due to temperature differential |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3176
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 3176 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 3176 — Flammable solid, organic, molten, 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.