Analyze an SDS

DOT Division 1.1: Mass Explosion Hazard

Division 1.1 is the DOT explosives division for materials with a mass explosion hazard, meaning an explosion that affects almost the entire load virtually instantaneously. It is the most dangerous division of Class 1.

How it is defined

  • A mass explosion is one that affects virtually the whole load at once.
  • Typical effects include a severe blast, high-velocity fragments and a danger zone that extends well beyond the immediate area.
  • Because the consequences are so large, Division 1.1 materials are subject to the strictest packaging, loading, segregation and security rules in Class 1.

Summary of 49 CFR Parts 171 to 180. The regulations and the Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101) control any shipment.

Label and placard

Colors
Orange background, black symbol
Symbol
Exploding bomb with “1.1” and a compatibility group letter

Orange label and placard with an exploding bomb and the division and compatibility group (for example 1.1D).

Packing groups

None. Class 1 is assigned by division and compatibility group. How packing groups work.

Common examples

  • High explosives such as dynamite and TNT-based products
  • Many military bombs and warheads
  • Detonators of the mass-explosion type and some boosters

How it relates to GHS

Broadly corresponds to the highest-severity GHS explosives divisions, shown with the exploding bomb pictogram and the signal word Danger.

DOT classes and GHS classes are assigned under different rules, so a product can have different severity labels in each. See also all GHS hazard classes.

Safe handling reminders

  • Handle only under the supervision of trained and licensed personnel.
  • Do not load with incompatible materials or in incompatible compatibility groups.
  • Observe the quantity and distance limits for storage and transport.

Where to find it on an SDS

Section 14 will show Class 1, Division 1.1, the compatibility group and a UN number such as UN0xxx for explosives. Look in Section 14: Transport information. Hazard classification for the workplace is in Section 2. You can also see how a UN number points to a response guide on the UN and NA numbers page.

Frequently asked questions

What is Division 1.1?

Division 1.1 is the DOT explosives division for materials with a mass explosion hazard, where an explosion affects almost the entire load virtually at once.

Is Division 1.1 the most dangerous explosive class?

Yes. Of the six Class 1 divisions, 1.1 covers the explosives with the largest blast hazard, and it carries the strictest transport and storage rules.

General reference only. It does not replace the supplier's SDS or the current federal regulations.