UN 2917 — Radioactive material, Type B(M) package, non fissile or fissile-excepted
Placard: Radioactive. ERG Guide 163. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 2917 covers radioactive material in a Type B(M) package, non-fissile or fissile-excepted. Because Type B(M) approvals may include special operational controls, responders should rely on shipping papers and radiological experts before moving or opening anything.
Hazard overview: The hazard is controlled when the package is intact. A damaged package can create external radiation, contamination, shielding loss or unknown contents concerns. Some radioactive materials may be difficult to detect without the proper survey instrument.
Response guidance: Secure the area, protect life safety and request the radiation authority. Keep personnel away from damaged packages, avoid unnecessary handling and use survey readings, package markings and shipping papers to set or adjust the perimeter.
Firefighter training notes: Train crews to recognize Class 7 labels, transport index markings, package types and the difference between exposure and contamination. Do not delay life-saving actions, but minimize time near damaged packages, maximize distance, use shielding when practical and request radiological technical support early.
Regulatory context: Class 7 shipments are regulated through DOT radioactive material transport rules and package approval requirements. Incident decisions should be coordinated with the radiation authority, carrier emergency contact, shipper and applicable federal or state radiological response agencies.
Storage & handling: Keep packages secure, labeled and protected from impact, fire and unauthorized access. Store away from high-traffic areas and verify that package condition, labels and shipping documents remain intact according to the shipper's radiation safety program.
UN 2917 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2917
- Undamaged approved radioactive packages normally present low risk to responders and the public.
- Damaged packages may create higher external radiation levels or contamination hazards.
- Radiation levels depend on label category, transport index, shielding and package condition.
- Some sources may not be detected by all commonly available instruments.
- Fire, impact or water damage can compromise containment or shielding.
- Contaminated runoff, debris or equipment may spread radioactive material.
- Exposure control depends on time, distance, shielding and expert radiological assessment.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 2917 is not a single substance. It is an engineered Type B(M) radioactive package that may contain different radioactive forms inside shielding and containment.
| Also known as | Type B(M) radioactive packageRAM Type B(M)Type B(M) non-fissile packageRadioactive material package Type B(M) |
| Appearance | Engineered shipping package containing radioactive materials in solid, liquid, or gaseous form. Package typically consists of robust containment with shielding materials; contents vary widely. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (package classification, not chemical substance) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (package classification, not chemical substance) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (package classification, not chemical substance) |
| Water Reactivity | Variable depending on package contents; treat as potentially reactive until contents identified |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2917
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use protective clothing appropriate to the fire, spill or rescue hazards. Add SCBA for smoke or breach conditions, use dosimetry when available and keep exposure time low while awaiting radiological assistance.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2917 Incident
- Call 911 and notify the radiation authority or radiation safety officer through dispatch.
- Life safety, rescue, fire control and other immediate hazards remain the first priorities.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish a controlled perimeter.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid direct contact with damaged packages.
- Do not handle suspected contaminated people or equipment except under incident command.
- Use radiation survey instruments and dosimetry when available.
- Verify package type, label category, transport index and shipping papers before reducing controls.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2917 — Radioactive material, Type B(M) package,Use 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.