HAZMAT Class 1 Explosives

HAZMAT Class 1 Explosives is a classification of hazardous materials (HAZMAT) that pertains to substances which have the potential to cause harm to people, property, or the environment. This classification is part of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and is used internationally to facilitate the safe transportation of hazardous materials.

Overview

HAZMAT Class 1 Explosives are defined as substances and articles which have the ability to rapidly decompose with the production of gas at such a temperature, pressure and speed as to cause damage to the surroundings. This class is further divided into six divisions based on the specific characteristics and hazards of the explosive material.

Divisions

Division 1.1

Division 1.1 explosives have a mass explosion hazard. A mass explosion is one which affects almost the entire load instantaneously.

Division 1.2

Division 1.2 explosives have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard.

Division 1.3

Division 1.3 explosives have a fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard or a minor projection hazard or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.

Division 1.4

Division 1.4 explosives pose a minor explosion hazard. The explosive effects are largely confined to the package and no projection of fragments of appreciable size or range is expected.

Division 1.5

Division 1.5 explosives are very insensitive substances which have a mass explosion hazard.

Division 1.6

Division 1.6 explosives are extremely insensitive articles which do not have a mass explosion hazard.

Handling and Transportation

The handling and transportation of HAZMAT Class 1 Explosives require special precautions due to their potential to cause harm. These precautions may include the use of protective equipment, special packaging, and specific transportation methods. The United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods provides guidelines for the safe transportation of these materials.

See Also

• HAZMAT Classifications
• United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods
• Explosive Material

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