UN 0197 — Signals, smoke
Placard: Explosive 1.4G. ERG Guide 114. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0197 Signals, Smoke are solid pyrotechnic devices classified as Division 1.4G explosives, containing metal powders, oxidizers, and organic fuels in cylindrical cartridges or candles. When ignited, these devices produce dense colored smoke and heat with a minor but localized blast or deflagration risk.
Hazard overview: UN 0197 presents a localized burning or deflagration hazard capable of generating intense heat and dense colored smoke that poses a significant inhalation risk to nearby personnel. The minor blast effect is limited in scope, but ignition can propagate to adjacent pyrotechnic materials if devices are stored or transported in bulk.
Response guidance: Emergency responders should isolate the spill or leak area a minimum of 25 meters in all directions, expanding to 80 meters and considering a 160-meter downwind evacuation if fire or a large spill is involved. Dry chemical, sand, or water spray are recommended extinguishing agents for small fires, and foam may be used to cool adjacent materials.
UN 0197 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0197
- Minor blast or fire hazard — limited effect.
- Localized burning or deflagration possible.
- Smoke and heat from burning.
- Low mass explosion risk under normal conditions.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0197 devices are odorless solid pyrotechnic cartridges or candles — typically orange, red, or white — that produce dense colored smoke only upon ignition.
| Also known as | Smoke signalsPyrotechnic smoke devicesMarine smoke signalsDistress smoke signalsSignal smoke cartridges |
| Appearance | Solid pyrotechnic devices containing metal powders, oxidizers, and organic fuels. Typically cylindrical cartridges or candles in various colors (orange, red, white). No odor until ignited, then produces dense colored smoke. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/burns) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid device) |
| Water Reactivity | May react with some formulations containing reactive metals; generally stable when wet but should be kept dry for reliability |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0197
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level D protection is sufficient for handling intact UN 0197 devices, but Level C with full respiratory protection is required if devices are burning due to the hazardous smoke inhalation risk.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0197 Incident
- CALL 911. Notify law enforcement.
- Isolate area; keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stage upwind; eliminate ignition sources.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement.
- Consult current ERG Guide 114 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0197 — Signals, smokeUse 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.