UN 3312 — Gas, refrigerated liquid, flammable, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 115. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3312 covers refrigerated liquid flammable gases. A release can rapidly vaporize into a flammable vapor cloud while also creating cryogenic burn hazards.
Hazard overview: The gas is extremely flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to ignition sources and flash back, while contact with the refrigerated liquid can cause frostbite.
Response guidance: Eliminate ignition sources, isolate the area, and do not extinguish a burning gas release unless the leak can be stopped. Use water spray only for cooling exposed containers from a safe distance.
UN 3312 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3312
- EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE.
- Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Will form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release flammable gas through pressure relief devices.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Colorless to light-colored cryogenic liquid stored at extremely low temperatures (typically below -100°C). Odor varies depending on specific gas; rapidly vaporizes when released, forming dense vapor clouds.
| Also known as | Cryogenic flammable gasLiquefied flammable gas (refrigerated)Refrigerated liquefied flammable gas n.o.s.Cryogenic liquid flammable gas |
| Appearance | Colorless to light-colored cryogenic liquid stored at extremely low temperatures (typically below -100°C). Odor varies depending on specific gas; rapidly vaporizes when released, forming dense vapor clouds. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (cryogenic liquid/gas) |
| Boiling Point | Varies by specific gas (typically -100°C to -200°C or lower) |
| Vapor Density | Varies by specific gas (may be lighter or heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but contact may cause violent boiling and rapid vaporization |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3312
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum; SCBA required; insulated gloves for cryogenic exposure; full face shield; avoid all skin contact with cryogenic liquid
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3312 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 800 meters (1/2 mile).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3312 — Gas, refrigerated liquid, flammable, n.oUse 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.