DOT Hazard Class

Class 1

Explosives

49 CFR §173.50

Placard: Orange placard with detonating device symbol

ERG entries

Divisions

Packing groups

—

Compat groups

Definition

A substance or article, including a device, designed to function by explosion (extremely rapid release of gas and heat), or which, by chemical reaction within itself, is able to function in a similar manner even if not designed to function by explosion.

Primary hazards

Blast overpressure wave
Projection of fragments and packaging debris
Thermal radiation from fireball
Sensitivity to shock, friction, heat, or spark

Public safety response

Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 500 m (1/3 mile) in all directions. Do not fight fire when fire reaches cargo — evacuate. Consider initial evacuation for 800 m (1/2 mile) in all directions.

Common materials in this class

Ammonium nitrate/fuel oil (ANFO) blasting agents, gunpowder, dynamite, detonators, safety fuse, consumer and display fireworks, military munitions.

UN1310Ammonium picrate, wetted UN3379Desensitized explosive, liquid, n.o.s.UN3380Desensitized explosive, solid, n.o.s.UN2852Dipicryl sulfide, wetted

Divisions / subclasses

1.1

Explosives with a mass explosion hazard

e.g. TNT, dynamite, black powder

1.2

Explosives with a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard

e.g. Detonating cord, some grenades

1.3

Explosives with a fire hazard and either a minor blast or projection hazard

e.g. Propellant powder, display fireworks

1.4

Explosives with no significant blast hazard — effects confined to the package

e.g. Consumer fireworks, safety fuse, small-arms ammunition

1.5

Very insensitive explosives with a mass explosion hazard

e.g. Blasting agents, ANFO

1.6

Extremely insensitive articles which do not have a mass explosion hazard

e.g. EIDS-based warheads

Compatibility groups

Appended to the division on the placard (e.g. 1.4S).

ABCDEFGHJKLNS

Special provisions / notes

Compatibility Group letter is appended to the division on the placard (e.g. 1.4S). Groups A-L identify substances/articles with defined compatibility; N = extremely insensitive articles; S = articles so packaged that any hazardous effect from accidental functioning is confined within the package.