Explosives are classified as which type of hazardous material?

Explosives are classified as Class 1 hazardous materials according to the United Nations system for the classification of dangerous goods. This classification encompasses a range of substances that can undergo rapid chemical reactions with the release of gas and heat, leading to explosions. Class 1 is further subdivided into several divisions that address different types of explosives, including those that are projectile-generating, mass-explosion, or fragmenting.

Understanding this classification is crucial for fire inspectors and safety personnel, as it informs the approach to storage, handling, and response strategies for materials classified under this category. For instance, knowing that a material falls under Class 1 prompts stricter regulations and safety measures compared to other classes of hazardous materials, which may have different physical and chemical properties, such as flammability or corrosiveness.