UN 0375 — Sounding devices, explosive
Placard: Explosive 1.2D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0375 covers explosive sounding devices classified as Division 1.2D, indicating a significant projection and fragmentation hazard upon initiation without the mass explosion risk of the 1.1 division. These devices are used for generating acoustic signals underwater or in the atmosphere and contain explosive charges housed in metal or plastic cylindrical casings.
Hazard overview: Initiation of UN 0375 produces dangerous blast overpressure in the immediate area along with high-velocity projectiles and casing fragments capable of causing serious injuries at a distance. Unlike 1.1D materials, not all units in a shipment are expected to detonate simultaneously, but fragmentation risk remains extreme and unpredictable.
Response guidance: Isolate a minimum of 500 meters in all directions and expand evacuation to 1,600 meters if fire or explosion is involved, treating the scene as an explosive ordnance incident requiring EOD protocols. Do not use water or foam on fires; apply dry chemical or sand only from a safe distance and only after consulting with explosives specialists.
UN 0375 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0375
- 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 0375 devices are typically metal or plastic cylindrical units ranging from small cartridge sizes to larger canister configurations, designed to produce acoustic signals and containing explosive charges that may be water-activated or water-resistant depending on design.
| Also known as | Explosive sounding devicesMarine signal chargesSeismic exploration chargesAcoustic signal cartridges |
| Appearance | Typically metal or plastic cylindrical devices containing explosive charges designed to produce acoustic signals underwater or in the air. May vary in size from small cartridges to larger canister-type devices. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive device) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (explosive device) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (explosive device) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but device may be water-activated or water-resistant depending on design |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0375
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Minimum Level B with blast-resistant protection and SCBA is required, with full explosive ordnance disposal protocols mandated given the unpredictable fragmentation behavior of these devices.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0375 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 0375 — Sounding devices, explosiveUse 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.