UN 0502 — Rockets, with inert head
Placard: Explosive 1.3C. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0502, Rockets, with inert head, is a highly hazardous substance that poses significant fire and burning risks. It is typically used in solid rocket motors with inert warheads, and can vary in size from small practice rounds to large training missiles.
Hazard overview: The primary hazards associated with UN 0502 are fire and burning, which can lead to intense heat and possible fragment projection. It is essential to exercise extreme caution when handling this substance, as it can ignite and cause severe damage.
Response guidance: In the event of an emergency involving UN 0502, it is crucial to evacuate the area immediately and call for professional assistance. Firefighters should use dry chemical, CO2, sand, or dry powder to extinguish the fire, and avoid using water directly on burning rockets.
UN 0502 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0502
- Fire and burning hazard — not mass explosion.
- Intense heat and possible fragment projection.
- May deflagrate and initiate other materials.
- Smoke and toxic combustion products.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0502 is a solid rocket motor with an inert warhead, typically cylindrical metal casings containing solid propellant, and can vary in size from small practice rounds to large training missiles.
| Also known as | Inert-head rocketsPractice rocketsTraining rocketsNon-explosive head rockets |
| Appearance | Solid rocket motors with inert (non-explosive) warheads; typically cylindrical metal casings containing solid propellant; may vary in size from small practice rounds to large training missiles. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive/pyrotechnic composition) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (solid propellant composition) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid article) |
| Water Reactivity | Propellant may be water-reactive depending on composition; do not use water directly on burning rockets |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0502
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
When handling UN 0502, it is essential to wear Level B minimum protective gear, including SCBA, and maintain a safe distance to protect against fragment projection and intense heat.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0502 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate area; stage upwind — fire and fragment hazard.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Control ignition sources; deny entry.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0502 — Rockets, with inert headUse 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.