HAZMAT Class 1 Explosives - Division & Compatibility

Explosive articles and substances are divided into six divisions based on their explosive characteristics and the type of hazard they present. Each division is described as follows.

Division 1.1 articles and substances are characterized as having a mass explosion hazard.

Division 1.2 articles and substances have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard.

Division 1.3 articles and substances have a fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard or a minor projectile hazard or both, but they do not have a mass explosion hazard.

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.

Division 1.5 articles and substances consist of very insensitive substances. They have a mass explosion hazard, but they are so insensitive that there is very little probability of initiation under normal conditions of transport.

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

Class 1 divisions are further divided into 13 compatibility groups that identify the kinds of explosive articles and substances that are deemed to be compatible. Review Table 3.1.A for the compatibility groups assigned to the divisions of explosives and a description of the article or substance.

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