UN 3181 — Metal salts of organic compounds, flammable, n.o.s.
Placard: Flammable Solid. ERG Guide 133. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Metal salts of organic compounds, flammable, n.o.s. covers a broad flammable solid hazard. The exact composition controls water compatibility, smoke hazards and cleanup.
Hazard overview: Treat the material as ignitable and potentially reactive until SDS confirms the specific substance and compatible extinguishing media.
Response guidance: Isolate the area, remove ignition sources, avoid dust or splash spread, and use dry media unless product data allows water or foam.
Firefighter training notes: Use this page as initial reference only; responders should train from ERG, SDS, department SOPs and product-specific preplans.
Regulatory context: UN 3181 is regulated for transport under its proper shipping name, hazard class 4 and ERG Guide 133. Verify current DOT/PHMSA requirements and shipping papers.
Storage & handling: Store only as permitted by the SDS and applicable code: segregate from incompatible materials, protect packages from heat, damage and moisture, and maintain labels.
UN 3181 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3181
- Flammable solid; ignition may occur from heat, sparks, friction or flames.
- Dust, powder or exposed surface area can burn rapidly and may re-ignite.
- Fire may produce irritating, toxic or corrosive smoke depending on the exact material.
- Containers may rupture or fail when heated.
- Water compatibility varies; some materials may react or spread contamination.
- Runoff from firefighting can carry hazardous residues.
- For n.o.s. entries, the SDS and shipping papers determine final extinguishing media and PPE.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Variable appearance depending on specific compound; typically solid powders or crystals ranging from white to colored materials. May be odorless or have slight organic odor.
| Also known as | Metallic salts of organic compoundsFlammable metal organic saltsOrganometallic salts (flammable)Metal organic compound salts |
| Appearance | Variable appearance depending on specific compound; typically solid powders or crystals ranging from white to colored materials. May be odorless or have slight organic odor. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (solid material, ignition temperature varies by specific compound) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes before boiling) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | Variable depending on specific metal salt; some may react or decompose in water releasing flammable vapors |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3181
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA for fire conditions and chemical protective clothing when dust, toxic smoke or corrosive contact is possible.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3181 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number shown on shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish an isolation perimeter.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low areas where vapors or gases may collect.
- Avoid breathing vapors, dust, smoke or decomposition products.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material without appropriate PPE.
- Control ignition sources and avoid raising dust or spreading absorbed flammable liquid.
- Ventilate confined spaces only if trained, equipped and atmospheric monitoring supports entry.
- Use ERG guidance, SDS, labels and shipping papers to confirm the exact hazards before action.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3181 — Metal salts of organic compounds, flammaUse 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.