UN 0099 — Fracturing devices, explosive, without detonators
Placard: Explosive 1.1D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0099 refers to fracturing devices that are explosive but lack detonators, commonly used in oil and gas well perforation and stimulation operations. These solid metallic or composite devices contain high explosives and present a severe mass detonation risk if subjected to heat, shock, or friction.
Hazard overview: UN 0099 presents a mass explosion hazard, meaning the entire load may detonate simultaneously, producing catastrophic blast overpressure and high-velocity fragmentation. These devices are sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, making any incident involving fire or mechanical damage an extreme life-safety emergency.
Response guidance: Emergency responders must isolate a minimum of 500 meters in all directions and evacuate at least 800 meters if fire is involved or a large spill has occurred. No direct approach should be attempted; responders should use dry sand or earth applied from maximum safe distance, and never apply water or foam to burning explosives.
UN 0099 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0099
- 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 0099 fracturing devices are solid metallic or composite cylinders or tubes loaded with high explosives, designed for downhole use in oil and gas well operations.
| Also known as | Explosive fracturing toolsPerforating guns (explosive)Well fracturing explosivesOil field fracturing charges |
| Appearance | Solid metallic or composite devices containing high explosives, typically cylindrical or tubular in shape, used in oil and gas well operations. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but moisture may affect explosive reliability |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0099
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders must wear full bunker gear with SCBA at minimum, and Level A protection is required if fire directly involves the explosive devices; maximum standoff distance must be maintained at all times.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0099 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 0099 — Fracturing devices, explosive, without dUse 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.