UN 1294 — Toluene
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 130. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Toluene, also known as Methylbenzene or Phenylmethane, is a highly flammable liquid with a distinctive sweet, pungent benzene-like aromatic odor. It is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid and is widely used as a solvent in various industrial applications. First responders may encounter toluene in spills, fires, or other emergencies, and it is essential to understand its hazards and response procedures. Toluene is produced on a large scale and is transported extensively, increasing the risk of accidents and exposure. The chemical is insoluble in water and has a flash point of 4°C (40°F), making it highly flammable.
Hazard overview: Toluene vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. It will be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames.
Response guidance: In case of a toluene spill, isolate the area with an initial distance of 50m in all directions. For small spills, establish a protective action distance of 300m downwind, and for large spills, establish a distance of 800m during the day. Use alcohol-resistant AFFF foam, CO2, dry chemical, or water spray for cooling as suppression agents. Decontamination is crucial, and CHEMTREC should be contacted in case of an emergency. Evacuation zones should be established, and first responders should wear proper PPE, including Level B minimum with SCBA and chemical-resistant suits for confined spaces or high vapor concentrations.
Firefighter training notes: First responders should be trained to respond to toluene spills and fires, with a focus on isolation, evacuation, and decontamination procedures. A common tactical error is underestimating the flammability of toluene and not establishing proper isolation zones. ICS positions, such as the Incident Commander and Safety Officer, should be aware of the hazards of toluene and ensure that first responders are properly equipped and trained. Mutual aid criteria should include the availability of alcohol-resistant foam and other suppression agents.
Regulatory context: Toluene is classified as a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid, with a packing group of II. The OSHA PEL for toluene is 200 ppm, and it is listed on the CERCLA list. Toluene is regulated by the EPA under the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.
Storage & handling: Toluene should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and ignition sources. The temperature limit for storage is 30°C (86°F), and incompatible materials, such as strong oxidizers and acids, should be kept separate. Ventilation standards should be followed, and containers should be made of compatible materials, such as stainless steel or glass.
UN 1294 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 1294
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas
- Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Toluene is a clear, colorless to light yellow liquid with a distinctive sweet, pungent benzene-like aromatic odor. It has a flash point of 4°C (40°F) and a boiling point of 111°C (231°F). The vapor pressure of toluene is high, and it is volatile at room temperature. The specific gravity of toluene is 0.87, which is less than water.
| Also known as | MethylbenzenePhenylmethaneToluolMethyl benzene |
| CAS Number | 108-88-3 |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to light yellow liquid with a distinctive sweet, pungent benzene-like aromatic odor. Volatile at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | 4°C (40°F) |
| Boiling Point | 111°C (231°F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.1 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; insoluble in water (0.05% solubility) |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 1294
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
First responders should wear Level B minimum PPE, including SCBA and chemical-resistant suits, for spills or fire response. Chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing are also required for handling toluene. The rationale for this PPE is to prevent skin contact and inhalation of toluene vapors, which can cause respiratory problems and other health effects.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 1294 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 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 1294 — TolueneUse 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.