UN 2261 — Xylenols, solid
Placard: Toxic. ERG Guide 153. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 2261 is Xylenols, solid, a toxic/corrosive phenolic solid assigned to ERG Guide 153. Skin absorption, molten burns and toxic runoff are key hazards.
Hazard overview: TOXIC and CORROSIVE phenolic solid; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact may cause severe injury. Phenolic compounds can be absorbed through skin and contaminated clothing. Combustible solid: may burn but does not ignite readily.
Response guidance: For a UN 2261 incident, verify the product with shipping papers, container markings, SDS and ERG Guide 153. Establish incident command, isolate the area, stay upwind, control ignition or incompatibility hazards, prevent runoff, dust or vapor spread and base entry/fire-control actions on monitoring and local SOP.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 2261 should emphasize toxic skin/vapor/dust exposure, contaminated clothing, toxic fire products, decontamination waste and runoff containment. Use ERG 153, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Xylenols, solid is regulated as a hazardous material for transportation and emergency response purposes. Storage, workplace exposure, emergency planning, spill reporting, waste handling and environmental requirements vary by exact product, concentration, quantity and jurisdiction. Verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS, container markings and applicable DOT, OSHA, EPA, NFPA, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Xylenols, solid should be stored in tightly closed compatible containers in a secure toxic/corrosive-material area with secondary containment, restricted access, ventilation and waste/decontamination planning according to SDS.
UN 2261 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2261
- TOXIC and CORROSIVE phenolic solid; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact may cause severe injury.
- Phenolic compounds can be absorbed through skin and contaminated clothing.
- Combustible solid: may burn but does not ignite readily.
- Molten material can cause severe burns to skin and eyes.
- Fire may produce phenolic smoke, carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.
- Runoff may be toxic, corrosive and environmentally harmful.
- Avoid all skin contact and control contaminated runoff.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
White to tan or pinkish crystalline solid with a phenolic odor. Darkens on exposure to air and light.
| Also known as | DimethylphenolsMethylcresolsHydroxydimethylbenzeneXylic acid |
| Appearance | White to tan or pinkish crystalline solid with a phenolic odor. Darkens on exposure to air and light. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (solid, melts 25-75C depending on isomer) |
| Boiling Point | 211-225C (412-437F) depending on isomer |
| Vapor Density | 4.2 (heavier than air when vaporized) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction; slightly soluble in water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2261
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use positive-pressure SCBA for vapor, dust, mist, fire or confined-space exposure. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, boots, eye/face protection and protective clothing selected from SDS; avoid all skin contact.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2261 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Avoid breathing vapors, dust, mist, smoke or fumes and avoid skin or eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless properly trained and wearing appropriate protective equipment.
- Prevent contaminated dust, liquid, residues, runoff and decontamination waste from spreading.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained, equipped, monitored and authorized by incident command.
- Isolate the spill or release area and expand the perimeter for fire involvement, vapor spread, dust generation, water reaction or unknown product identity.
- Use ERG Guide 153, shipping papers, SDS, air monitoring and incident command for protective actions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2261 — Xylenols, solidUse 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.