UN 3169 — Gas sample, non-pressurized, poisonous, n.o.s., not refrigerated liquid
Placard: Toxic Gas. ERG Guide 123. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3169 is Gas sample, non-pressurized, poisonous, n.o.s., not refrigerated liquid, a toxic gas sample entry assigned to ERG Guide 123. Exact sample identity and concentration control response tactics.
Hazard overview: Toxic non-pressurized gas sample, n.o.s.; inhalation may cause severe injury or death. Gas identity, odor warning and vapor density vary by sample. Small releases can create dangerous concentrations in enclosed spaces.
Response guidance: For UN 3169, isolate the package or sample container, use monitoring and avoid ignition sources where flammable. Ventilate only if trained and equipped under ERG 123.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 3169 should emphasize cylinder/package recognition, vapor density, air monitoring, SCBA use, frostbite/toxicity controls, isolation and source-control limits. Use ERG 123, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Gas sample, non-pressurized, poisonous, n.o.s., not refrigerated liquid is regulated as a hazardous material for transport and emergency response. Storage, reporting, exposure, waste and incident-notification duties depend on quantity, package type, formulation and jurisdiction; verify shipping papers, SDS and authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Gas sample, non-pressurized, poisonous, n.o.s., not refrigerated liquid should be stored in secured, compatible cylinders or sample packages away from heat, physical damage and unauthorized access, with ventilation, segregation and emergency planning based on exact gas identity.
UN 3169 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3169
- Toxic non-pressurized gas sample, n.o.s.; inhalation may cause severe injury or death.
- Gas identity, odor warning and vapor density vary by sample.
- Small releases can create dangerous concentrations in enclosed spaces.
- Some samples may be corrosive, reactive or combustible depending on composition.
- Fire may produce toxic or corrosive gases.
- Heat can rupture sample containers and spread toxic vapor.
- Exact sample identity must be verified before handling or ventilation.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Variable appearance depending on specific gas; may be colorless to colored gas at room temperature; odor varies by specific substance; non-pressurized sample typically in glass or metal container.
| Also known as | Toxic gas samplePoisonous gas sample NOSNon-pressurized toxic gas sampleLaboratory gas sample |
| Appearance | Variable appearance depending on specific gas; may be colorless to colored gas at room temperature; odor varies by specific substance; non-pressurized sample typically in glass or metal container. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (gas sample) |
| Boiling Point | Variable depending on specific gas |
| Vapor Density | Variable depending on specific gas; typically heavier than air for most toxic gases |
| Water Reactivity | Variable depending on specific gas; some may react with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3169
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use positive-pressure SCBA and chemical-resistant protection for unknown or toxic sample releases. Use monitoring before ventilation or close handling.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3169 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish incident command.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream.
- Avoid breathing vapor, gas, dust, mist, smoke or fumes and avoid skin or eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged containers, cylinders, articles or spilled material without proper training and PPE.
- Prevent contaminated runoff, debris and decontamination waste from spreading.
- Ventilate confined spaces only after monitoring and only if properly trained and equipped.
- Use ERG Guide 123, SDS, shipping papers, markings and monitoring to set isolation, evacuation and entry decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3169 — Gas sample, non-pressurized, poisonous,Use 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.