UN 1009 — Refrigerant gas R-13B1
Placard: Non-Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 126. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Refrigerant gas R-13B1 is a colorless, odorless or faint ethereal odor liquefied compressed gas that is shipped as a liquefied gas under its own vapor pressure. It is a non-flammable gas, but containers may explode when heated.
Hazard overview: Refrigerant gas R-13B1 is hazardous due to the risk of container explosion when heated, and some components may burn but do not ignite readily. The gas can also cause frostbite if it comes into contact with skin.
Response guidance: In the event of a spill or leak, isolate the area immediately and call for emergency assistance. Responders should wear Level B protective equipment, including a self-contained breathing apparatus, to prevent exposure to the gas.
UN 1009 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1009
- Some may burn but none ignite readily.
- Containers may explode when heated.
- Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
- Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning, especially when in closed or confined areas.
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite.
- Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Refrigerant gas R-13B1 is a colorless, odorless or faint ethereal odor liquefied compressed gas that is shipped as a liquefied gas under its own vapor pressure.
| Also known as | BromotrifluoromethaneHalon 1301CBrF3TrifluorobromomethaneFreon 13B1 |
| CAS Number | 75-63-8 |
| Appearance | Colorless, odorless or faint ethereal odor liquefied compressed gas. Shipped as a liquefied gas under its own vapor pressure. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (non-flammable gas) |
| Boiling Point | -58C (-72F) |
| Vapor Density | 5.2 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1009
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should wear Level B protective equipment, including a self-contained breathing apparatus, and insulated gloves to prevent frostbite.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1009 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 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1009 — Refrigerant gas R-13B1Use 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.