Explosives shipping classification system

A matrix of the United Nations explosives shipping classification system and examples of typical materials. Each classification consists of a Sub Class Number that indicates the type of hazard and a Compatibility group suffix describing which types of product may inhabit the same means of containment.

This is not to be relied upon for the United States

Classes

	A Primary explosive substance	B Article, primary explosive, without two protective features	C Propellant	D Article, Secondary Explosive or primary explosive with two protective features	E Article with Secondary Explosive, not self initiating, with propelling charge	F Article with Secondary Explosive, self initiating	G Pyrotechnics	H Containing White Phosphorus	J Containing a flammable liquid or gel	K Containing a toxic substance	L Presenting a special risk requiring isolation	N Extremely Insensitive	S Packed so as to not hinder near-by firefighters
1.1 Mass explosion Possible	1.1A Mercury fulminate, Lead azide Etc.	1.1B Blasting caps	1.1C	1.1D Detonating cord, Blasting Explosives	1.1E	1.1F	1.1G Flash powder, Bulk Salutes
1.2 Projection but not mass explosion		1.2B	1.2C	1.2D			1.2G Fireworks (Rare)
1.3 Fire, minor blast			1.3C				1.3G Display Fireworks
1.4 Minor explosion hazard.		1.4B Blasting Caps	1.4C	1.4D Det. Cord			1.4G Consumer Fireworks, Proximate Pyro						1.4S Proximate Pyro, Blasting Caps Small Arms Ammunition
1.5 Blasting Agent, very insensitive				1.5D Blasting Agents
1.6 Explosives, extremely insensitive, no mass explosions												1.6N

Compatibility Groups

Example of an explosives placard

Compatibility Groups	Can Be Shipped With:
A	A
B	B, S
C	C, D, E, N, S
D	C, D, E, N, S
E	C, D, E, N, S
F	F, S
G	G, S
H	H, S
J	J, S
K	K, S
L	L
N	C, D, E, N, S
S	B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J, K, N, S

References

• Transport Canada, Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations
• Transport Canada, Statutory Instruments (Regulations) SOR/2008-34