UN 0104 — Fuse, detonating, metal clad, mild effect
Placard: Explosive 1.4D. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0104 is a metal-clad detonating cord, also known as mild detonating fuse (MDF) or det cord, consisting of a flexible metal-sheathed cable containing a mild explosive core designed for controlled, low-energy detonation. It is classified as a Division 1.4D explosive and presents a localized blast and fire hazard rather than a mass explosion risk.
Hazard overview: UN 0104 presents a minor blast hazard with localized burning or deflagration possible upon ignition, but its mild-effect design limits the range of blast damage compared to standard detonating cord. Smoke and heat generated during burning pose secondary hazards to responders operating in close proximity.
Response guidance: Responders should establish an initial isolation zone of 200 meters in all directions and, if a large fire or significant cargo quantity is involved, expand isolation to 800 meters and consider evacuating the same radius. Do not attempt to fight the fire if imminent detonation is suspected; instead, withdraw to a safe distance and allow the material to burn under controlled observation.
UN 0104 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0104
- Minor blast or fire hazard — limited effect.
- Localized burning or deflagration possible.
- Smoke and heat from burning.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal conditions.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0104 appears as a flexible cord or cable with a gray or green metal exterior sheathing encasing a core of mild explosive material, engineered to produce a controlled detonation with reduced blast effect.
| Also known as | Detonating cordDet cordMild detonating fuseMDFMetal-clad detonating fuseLow-energy detonating cord |
| Appearance | Flexible cord or cable with metal sheathing containing a core of mild explosive material, typically gray or green colored metal exterior, designed for controlled detonation with reduced blast effect. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive article) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive article) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid explosive article) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction under normal conditions; water may be used for fire suppression |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0104
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should use Level C PPE as a minimum for handling UN 0104, upgrading to Level B with SCBA if fire or smoke is present, and structural firefighter gear with standoff distance for active fire operations.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0104 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement.
- Isolate area; keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind; eliminate ignition sources.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Consult current ERG Guide 114 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0104 — Fuse, detonating, metal clad, mild effecUse 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.