Hazard Class 1

Class 1 - Explosives is defined as any substance or article, including a device, that is designed to function by explosion (such as an extremely rapid release of gas and heat) or is able to function in a similar manner by a chemical reaction. This includes pyrotechnic devices, such as fireworks and ammunition. Class 1 dangerous goods are divided into six divisions and are covered in §173.50.

Division 1.1 articles and substances are characterized as having a mass explosion hazard. This means that the explosion would affect the entire load almost instantaneously. Examples of Division 1.1 explosives include dynamite, trinitrotoluene (TNT), and black powder.

Division 1.2 articles and substances have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard. Examples include aerial flares and detonating cords.

Division 1.3 articles and substances have a fire hazard and a minor blast hazard, a minor projectile hazard, or both, but they do not have a mass explosion hazard. These articles and substances are capable of producing considerable radiant heat or burning, resulting in minor blasts or projectiles. An example of this division is propellant explosives, such as display fireworks.

Division 1.4 articles and substances present no significant hazards. They may present a small hazard in the event of ignition or initiation during transport. The effects are largely confined to the package and no projection fragments of appreciable size are expected. An external fire would not cause instantaneous explosion. Examples of Division 1.4 explosives include practice ammunition, signal cartridges, and consumer fireworks.

Division 1.5 articles and substances consist of very insensitive substances. They have a mass explosion hazard, but are so insensitive that there is very little probability of initiation under normal conditions of transport. This includes explosive blasting agents, such as ammonium nitrate fuel. These types of substances are often used in mining. There are five blasting types, labeled A through E.

Division 1.6 articles and substances consist of extremely insensitive articles that do not have a mass explosion hazard. They have a negligible probability of accidental initiation or propagation.

Note that on June 2, 2016, PHMSA issued a final ruling that removes the Packing Group (PGII) designation for Class 1 materials. This ruling went into effect on July 5, 2016.

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