UN 3371 — 2-Methylbutanal
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3371 is 2-Methylbutanal, assigned to ERG Guide 129. First responders should verify the shipping papers and SDS, isolate the area, and base entry, PPE and control tactics on the product's listed hazards.
Hazard overview: The main hazard is a highly flammable aldehyde liquid with vapors that can travel, collect in low areas, and flash back to ignition sources.
Response guidance: In case of fire, use AFFF foam or dry chemical to extinguish. Evacuate the area and call the fire department.
UN 3371 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3371
- 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 and may spread along the ground into 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
Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent, unpleasant aldehyde odor. Liquid at room temperature.
| Also known as | 2-Methylbutyraldehyde2-MethylbutanalIsovaleraldehyde2-Methyl-1-butanal |
| CAS Number | 96-17-3 |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent, unpleasant aldehyde odor. Liquid at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -7°C (19°F) |
| Boiling Point | 92-93°C (198-199°F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.0 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; low solubility |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3371
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level B minimum with SCBA required; vapor-protective clothing for spills or confined spaces.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3371 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- 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 3371 — 2-MethylbutanalUse 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.