UN 1220 — Isopropyl acetate
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Isopropyl acetate is a colorless liquid with a fruity, ester-like odor, commonly used as a solvent and cleaning agent. It is highly volatile and flammable at room temperature, making it a significant fire hazard if not handled properly.
Hazard overview: Isopropyl acetate is highly flammable and can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames, with vapors forming explosive mixtures with air. Prolonged exposure to its vapors can also cause respiratory irritation and other health issues.
Response guidance: In case of a spill, evacuate the area immediately and use alcohol-resistant foam or other recommended extinguishing agents to prevent the fire from spreading. Emergency responders should wear Level B minimum protective equipment with SCBA for spill situations.
UN 1220 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1220
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas
- Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Isopropyl acetate is a colorless liquid with a fruity, ester-like odor, volatile and highly flammable at room temperature.
| Also known as | 2-Propyl acetateAcetic acid isopropyl esterIsopropyl ethanoate2-Acetoxypropane |
| CAS Number | 108-21-4 |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid with a fruity, ester-like odor. Volatile and highly flammable at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -6C (21F) |
| Boiling Point | 89C (192F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.5 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; slightly soluble in water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1220
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Emergency responders should wear Level B minimum protective equipment with SCBA for spill situations, and chemical-resistant suit recommended for large releases or confined spaces.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1220 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.
- Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1220 — Isopropyl acetateUse 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.