UN 2989 — Lead phosphite, dibasic
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Lead phosphite, dibasic is a lead-containing flammable solid shipped as a powder or granular material. The fire concern is combined with toxic dust and decomposition products.
Hazard overview: Main hazards are ignition of the solid, toxic lead-containing smoke and dust exposure. Avoid actions that disperse powder or create contaminated runoff.
Response guidance: Isolate the spill, avoid dust generation and use dry chemical, dry sand or soda ash for small fires. Keep water and foam off the product unless the incident commander confirms compatibility from SDS.
Firefighter training notes: Train responders to identify UN 2989 from shipping papers, confirm the SDS, choose PPE from monitoring results and avoid relying on generic placard information alone.
Regulatory context: UN 2989 is listed for transport under hazard class 4 with ERG Guide 133. Confirm packing group, quantity limits and any special provisions from current DOT/TDG/IMDG documents.
Storage & handling: Store only in approved, labeled containers or packaging. Keep incompatible materials separated, control ignition sources where applicable and protect packages from heat, damage and unauthorized access.
UN 2989 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2989
- Combustible/flammable solid that may ignite from heat, sparks, friction or flame.
- Dust can create inhalation exposure and may burn more readily than compact material.
- Fire may produce toxic lead-containing fumes and irritating phosphorus oxides.
- Moisture contact may create hazardous decomposition products; keep material dry.
- Runoff or spilled powder can contaminate soil, drains and waterways.
- Containers may rupture when heated.
- Skin or eye contact with dust may cause irritation; ingestion or inhalation is hazardous.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
White to off-white crystalline powder or granular solid with no distinctive odor. Stable at room temperature in dry conditions.
| Also known as | Dibasic lead phosphiteLead hydrogen phosphiteLead orthophosphite dibasicPhosphorous acid lead(2+) salt dibasic |
| CAS Number | 12141-20-7 |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder or granular solid with no distinctive odor. Stable at room temperature in dry conditions. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes before melting) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | May react slowly with water producing phosphine gas; avoid moisture |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2989
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use respiratory protection suitable for toxic dust; SCBA is required in fire or confined areas. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection and disposable/cleanable clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2989 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number listed on the shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish hot, warm and cold zones.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low areas where vapors may collect.
- Avoid breathing vapors, fumes, dust or spray mist; prevent skin and eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged packages or containers without appropriate PPE and monitoring.
- Ventilate confined spaces only when personnel are trained, equipped and monitored.
- Use the ERG guide, SDS, shipping papers and product labels to confirm final tactics.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2989 — Lead phosphite, dibasicUse 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.