UN 1105 — Pentanols
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Pentanols are highly flammable liquids that can easily ignite and form explosive mixtures with air, making them a significant fire hazard. It is essential to handle these materials with caution and follow proper safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents.
Hazard overview: Pentanols can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames, and their vapors may form explosive mixtures with air, posing a significant risk of fire or explosion. Prolonged exposure to these substances can also cause health complications, including respiratory problems and skin irritation.
Response guidance: In the event of a pentanols spill, it is crucial to isolate the area immediately and evacuate anyone in the surrounding vicinity. Emergency responders should wear Level B protective gear, including a self-contained breathing apparatus and chemical-resistant gloves and suit, to minimize the risk of exposure and explosion.
UN 1105 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1105
- 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
Pentanols are clear to pale yellow liquids with a mild, sweet, fusel oil-like odor, and exist as various isomers including primary, secondary, and branched forms.
| Also known as | Amyl alcoholPentyl alcohol1-Pentanol2-Pentanol3-PentanolIsoamyl alcohol |
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow liquid with a mild, sweet, fusel oil-like odor. Exists as various isomers including primary, secondary, and branched forms. |
| Flash Point | 33-49C (91-120F) depending on isomer |
| Boiling Point | 117-138C (243-280F) depending on isomer |
| Vapor Density | 3.0 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; slightly soluble in water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1105
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
When handling pentanols, it is recommended to wear Level B minimum protective gear, including a self-contained breathing apparatus and chemical-resistant gloves and suit, to prevent skin contact and minimize the risk of explosion.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1105 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 1105 — PentanolsUse 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.