UN 1325 — Flammable solid, organic, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 1325, also known as Flammable solid, organic, n.o.s., is a DOT Class 4 substance that poses significant fire and explosion hazards. It is commonly used in various industrial applications, including manufacturing and transportation. First responders may encounter this substance during transportation accidents, fires, or spills. The scale of production and transport of this substance is substantial, making it a critical component of emergency response planning. The substance is often transported in large quantities, increasing the risk of accidents and spills. As a result, first responders must be well-trained and equipped to handle incidents involving UN 1325. The substance's flammability and potential for explosive violence make it a high-priority concern for emergency responders.
Hazard overview: UN 1325 is a highly flammable substance that may be ignited by friction, heat, sparks, or flames. It can burn rapidly with a flare-burning effect, and powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings, or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence. The substance may be transported in a molten form at a temperature that may be above its flash point, increasing the risk of fire and explosion. The hazard posed by UN 1325 is further complicated by its potential to react with water, air, or other substances, leading to the release of toxic gases or the formation of explosive mixtures. In the event of a fire, the substance may release toxic fumes, including carbon monoxide and particulate matter. The substance's flammability and potential for explosive violence make it a high-priority concern for emergency responders.
Response guidance: In the event of a spill or leak, first responders should isolate the area for at least 25 meters (75 feet) in all directions and call 911. The area should be ventilated, and unauthorized personnel should be kept away. If a tank or rail car is involved in a fire, the isolation distance should be increased to 800 meters. The correct suppression agent for UN 1325 is dry chemical, CO2, sand, or earth, and water spray may be used to cool containers. Decontamination procedures should be followed, and CHEMTREC should be contacted in the event of a spill or leak. First responders should be aware of the substance's potential to react with water, air, or other substances, leading to the release of toxic gases or the formation of explosive mixtures.
Firefighter training notes: First responders should be trained to recognize the hazards posed by UN 1325 and to respond accordingly. They should be aware of the substance's potential to ignite or explode and should take steps to prevent these outcomes. A common tactical error when responding to incidents involving UN 1325 is the failure to properly isolate the area, which can lead to the spread of the substance and increased risk to responders and the public. First responders should be trained to use the correct suppression agents and to follow decontamination procedures.
Regulatory context: UN 1325 is a DOT Class 4 substance, and its transportation is regulated by the Department of Transportation. The substance is not listed on the CERCLA list, but it may be subject to other regulations, such as OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard. The substance's packing group is not specified, but it is considered a hazardous material and should be handled and transported accordingly.
Storage & handling: UN 1325 should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from incompatible materials such as oxidizers, acids, and bases. The storage area should be well-ventilated, and the substance should be kept away from heat sources and ignition sources. The substance should be stored in a container that is compatible with the substance and the environment in which it is being used.
UN 1325 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1325
- Flammable/combustible material.
- May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames.
- Some may burn rapidly with flare-burning effect.
- Powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence.
- Substance may be transported in a molten form at a temperature that may be above its flash point.
- May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.
- Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.
- Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 1325 is a solid at room temperature, with a varying appearance depending on the specific material. It may be crystalline, powder, or granular in form, and its color and odor depend on the specific substance. The substance has a flash point that is not applicable, as it is a flammable solid, and its boiling point varies by specific material. The vapor density is not applicable, as the substance is a solid.
| Also known as | Flammable solid organic NOSCombustible solid organicFlammable organic solid not otherwise specifiedUN1325 |
| Appearance | Generic entry covering various organic solids. Appearance varies by specific material but typically solid at room temperature, may be crystalline, powder, or granular form. Color and odor depend on the specific substance. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (flammable solid) |
| Boiling Point | Varies by specific material |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally no significant reaction with water, though specific materials may vary |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1325
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
The recommended PPE level for UN 1325 is Level C minimum, with SCBA required if involved in a fire or heavy dust generation. Protective gloves and clothing should be worn to prevent skin contact, and a full-face respirator may be necessary in certain situations. The PPE should be compatible with the substance and the environment in which it is being used.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1325 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Isolate spill or leak area for at least 25 meters (75 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1325 — Flammable solid, organic, 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.