UN 3172 — Toxins, extracted from living sources, liquid, n.o.s.
Placard: Toxic. ERG Guide 152. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Toxins, extracted from living sources, liquid, n.o.s. covers a broad liquid toxin entry, so the exact biological source and carrier must be confirmed from shipping papers and SDS.
Hazard overview: This entry presents severe toxic exposure risk. The specific toxin controls routes of exposure, medical treatment and decontamination.
Response guidance: Isolate the area, avoid contact and aerosol generation, contain runoff, and use SDS/ERG information before committing personnel.
Firefighter training notes: Use this page as initial reference only; responders should train from ERG, SDS, department SOPs and product-specific preplans.
Regulatory context: UN 3172 is regulated for transport under its proper shipping name, hazard class 6 and ERG Guide 152. Verify current DOT/PHMSA requirements and shipping papers.
Storage & handling: Store only as permitted by the SDS and applicable code: segregate from incompatible materials, protect packages from heat, damage and moisture, and maintain labels.
UN 3172 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3172
- Highly toxic liquid; exposure may be fatal by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption.
- Exact toxin and carrier are not specified; toxicity, persistence and decontamination needs vary by product.
- Aerosols, splashes or contaminated runoff can create secondary exposure risks.
- Fire may produce irritating or toxic decomposition products from the carrier or packaging.
- Containers may fail when heated, releasing concentrated toxic liquid.
- Avoid all direct skin and eye contact; do not rely on odor as a warning property.
- Medical treatment and antidote decisions require the exact toxin identity from SDS or shipping papers.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Liquid appearance varies by toxin preparation and carrier; do not assume color, odor or viscosity identifies the product.
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3172
PPE Requirements
SCBA and chemical protective clothing are required; use Level A when vapor, aerosol or splash hazard is uncertain.
First Actions for a UN 3172 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number shown on shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish an isolation perimeter.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low areas where vapors or gases may collect.
- Avoid breathing vapors, dust, smoke or decomposition products.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material without appropriate PPE.
- Prevent runoff from entering drains, soil or waterways until the toxin and carrier are identified.
- Ventilate confined spaces only if trained, equipped and atmospheric monitoring supports entry.
- Use ERG guidance, SDS, labels and shipping papers to confirm the exact hazards before action.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3172 — Toxins, extracted from living sources, lUse 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.