UN 0103 — Fuse, igniter, tubular, metal clad
Placard: Explosive 1.4G. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0103 identifies a tubular, metal-clad igniter fuse containing pyrotechnic composition, classified as a 1.4G explosive with limited mass explosion risk. This device is designed for controlled ignition timing in ordnance systems and poses a localized deflagration and smoke hazard when involved in fire.
Hazard overview: UN 0103 presents a minor blast and fire hazard with localized burning or deflagration potential rather than a mass explosion risk. Smoke, heat, and possible projectile effects from the metal cladding are the primary concerns when this article is exposed to fire.
Response guidance: Responders should isolate a minimum of 500 meters (1,640 feet) in all directions if a large fire involves UN 0103, and the area should be fully evacuated if articles are directly involved. Water spray may be used for cooling and exposure protection, but large fires involving this material should not be directly fought by emergency personnel.
UN 0103 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0103
- 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 0103 is a cylindrical, metal-encased pyrotechnic device with metal cladding engineered to deliver precise ignition timing in ordnance applications.
| Also known as | Tubular metal-clad igniterMetal clad tubular fusePyrotechnic igniter fuseOrdnance fuse assembly |
| Appearance | Metal-encased tubular device containing pyrotechnic composition. Typically cylindrical with metal cladding, designed for controlled ignition timing in ordnance systems. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic article) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic article) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid article) |
| Water Reactivity | Generally stable; avoid prolonged water exposure which may degrade pyrotechnic composition |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0103
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides only limited protection against UN 0103 hazards; a minimum of Level D is required for inspection, but responders should maintain distance whenever fire involvement is possible.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0103 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 0103 — Fuse, igniter, tubular, metal cladUse 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.