UN 0313 — Signals, smoke
Placard: Explosive 1.2G. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0313 covers pyrotechnic smoke signals, classified as Division 1.2G explosives that pose projection and fragmentation hazards upon initiation. These devices contain smoke-producing chemical mixtures in cylindrical containers and are sensitive to heat, shock, and electrical current.
Hazard overview: Initiation of UN 0313 smoke signals creates blast overpressure and propels fragments in the immediate area, posing lethal risk to unprotected personnel. The combustion process releases toxic smoke compounds that present serious inhalation hazards beyond the immediate blast zone.
Response guidance: Establish an initial isolation perimeter of 500 meters in all directions; if devices are involved in fire, evacuate all non-essential personnel to at least 1,600 meters. Do not apply water or foam to burning pyrotechnic smoke signals, as some formulations contain water-reactive chemicals that can intensify the reaction.
UN 0313 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0313
- Projection and fragmentation hazard on initiation.
- Blast overpressure in immediate area.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, or electrical current.
- May initiate other explosives in proximity.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0313 smoke signals are solid pyrotechnic devices, typically cylindrical, containing smoke-producing pellet or powder mixtures available in various color-coded configurations.
| Also known as | Smoke signalsPyrotechnic smoke signalsSignal smokesMarine smoke signals |
| Appearance | Solid pyrotechnic devices typically in cylindrical containers, various colors. Contains smoke-producing chemical mixtures that may be in pellet or powder form. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (pyrotechnic device) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid pyrotechnic) |
| Water Reactivity | May contain water-reactive chemicals; do not use water on burning devices |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0313
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders must wear Level B protection with full structural firefighting gear and SCBA, as burning smoke signals produce toxic combustion gases that cannot be adequately filtered by standard respirators.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0313 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate minimum 500 meters; stage upwind and uphill.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement immediately.
- Control ignition sources; deny unauthorized entry.
- Do not approach — projectile/fragmentation hazard.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0313 — 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.