UN 1080 — Sulphur hexafluoride
Placard: Non-Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 126. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Sulphur hexafluoride is a colorless, odorless, non-flammable gas that is heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas. It is shipped as a compressed gas and can cause asphyxiation in enclosed spaces.
Hazard overview: Some containers may burn but none ignite readily, and containers may explode when heated. Sulphur hexafluoride can cause asphyxiation in enclosed spaces due to its ability to displace oxygen.
Response guidance: In case of a spill, isolate the area immediately for at least 100m in all directions, and if a tank or rail car is involved in a fire, isolate 800m in all directions. Ventilation is the primary concern, as the gas can accumulate in low-lying areas.
UN 1080 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1080
- 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
Sulphur hexafluoride is a colorless, odorless, non-flammable gas that is heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas.
| Also known as | SF6Sulfur hexafluorideSulphur fluorideSulfur fluoride |
| CAS Number | 2551-62-4 |
| Appearance | Colorless, odorless, non-flammable gas. Heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (non-flammable gas) |
| Boiling Point | -64C (-83F) |
| Vapor Density | 5.1 (much heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1080
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level D personal protective equipment is typically sufficient, but SCBA is required in confined spaces or high concentrations due to the asphyxiation hazard.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1080 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 1080 — Sulphur hexafluorideUse 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.