UN 0316 — Fuzes, igniting
Placard: Explosive 1.3G. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0316 Fuzes, igniting are pyrotechnic initiation devices classified as Division 1.3G explosives, designed to ignite other explosive or incendiary materials. These small cylindrical or tubular assemblies contain sensitive pyrotechnic compositions capable of deflagration and secondary initiation of surrounding materials.
Hazard overview: UN 0316 presents a primary fire and burning hazard with potential for intense heat output and fragment projection from the metal or plastic casings upon ignition. Deflagration of these igniting fuzes can propagate to adjacent explosive materials, significantly escalating incident severity beyond the device itself.
Response guidance: Establish an initial isolation zone of 500 meters in all directions and evacuate at least 1,600 meters downwind when fire involves large quantities of UN 0316 fuzes. Do not apply water to ignited devices; instead use dry chemical, sand, or dry earth, and do not attempt to move burning or heat-exposed fuzes.
UN 0316 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0316
- Fire and burning hazard — not mass explosion.
- Intense heat and possible fragment projection.
- May deflagrate and initiate other materials.
- Smoke and toxic combustion products.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0316 fuzes appear as small cylindrical or tubular devices in metal or plastic casings, sometimes with attached wires or ignition leads, varying in color by manufacturer.
| Also known as | Igniting fuzesIgniter fuzesPyrotechnic fuzesTime fuzesDelay fuzes |
| Appearance | Cylindrical or tubular devices containing pyrotechnic compositions, typically metal or plastic casings with ignition elements. May appear as small tubes, wires, or assemblies with various colors depending on manufacturer. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid device) |
| Water Reactivity | Some compositions may react with water; do not use water on ignited devices |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0316
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders must wear Level B protection minimum with fragment-rated gear, full structural firefighting ensemble, and SCBA, maintaining maximum safe standoff distance from any unignited devices.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0316 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate area; stage upwind — fire and fragment hazard.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Control ignition sources; deny entry.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0316 — Fuzes, ignitingUse 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.