Class 1 dangerous goods : explosives

When it comes to dangerous goods, Class 1 is undoubtedly the most feared and for good reason : it includes explosive substances and articles. Regardless of your industry, understanding this classification is essential to ensure the safety of people, property and environment.

What is a Class 1 dangerous good?

Class 1 covers all materials that present an explosion hazard, whether triggered by shock, friction, heat or electric discharge. These substances can cause mass explosions, project fragments, ignite fires or generate a powerful shockwave.

This category includes products found both in the civilian sector (fireworks, safety cartridges) and the military sector (grenades, ammunition, TNT).

The six divisions of class 1

Not all explosives present the same hazards. This is why regulations divide them into six subcategories, called divisions, ranging from 1.1 to 1.6.

Division 1.1 : Mass explosion

The most dangerous substances. In an incident, the entire product explodes, causing widespread damage. Examples include dynamite and powerful military explosives.

Division 1.2 : Projection without mass explosion

These materials do not explode entirely but can project fragments with force. Examples include certain projectiles or unconventional munitions.

Division 1.3 : Fire with low blast pressure

Substance that can ignite quickly and cause flames, heat and projections without mass explosion. Professional-grade fireworks often fall into this category.

Division 1.4 : Minor hazard Much more limited danger.

These explosive items pose localized and generally manageable risks, such as tool cartridges or hunting ammunition.

Division 1.5 : Very insensitive substances

Explosives with very low sensitivity, but still capable of causing a mass explosion if mishandled. Typically used in industrial applications.

Division 1.6 : Extremely insensitive article

Design never to detonate accidentally, even under shock. Includes highly secure weapon systems.

Compatibility group

Beyond the divisions, each Class 1 substance is also assigned a letter indicating its compatibility group (e.g., A, B, C, etc.). This code determines which substances can be stored or transported together without additional hazards. This system is crucial for safe transportation and storage of explosives.

How to identify a class 1 material?

Every product is identified by a UN number (e.g., UN 0336 for fireworks) and carries an orange label with the number «1» at the bottom, sometimes accompanied by an explosion symbol.

You can also check the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) regulations for classification.

Products covered by Class 1?

Here is a representative list of Class 1 products:

• Ammunition and cartridges
• Black powder (gunpowder)
• Detonator caps and blasting caps
• Dynamite
• Detonating fuses and igniters
• Fireworks and firecrackers
• Flash powder
• Grenades Rocket motors
• Signal flares
• Toy gun caps and starter pistol cartridges
• Detonating cord and electric/non-electric detonators Industrial blasting explosives (e.g., ammonium nitrate, mining explosives)
• Safety fuse
• Military shells
• TNT, C-4, other plastic explosives used in mining or military sectors

These products span all divisions (1.1 to 1.6), from mass explosives (dynamite, TNT) to less sensitive pyrotechnics (fuses, rocket motors).

The complete and updated list of authorized explosives in Canada is available from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) in the List of Authorized Explosives. Certain components may also be subject to specific restrictions depending on their use and risk level.

Risks and hazards

Class 1 products are among the most dangerous to transport and handle. These «explosives» are not just flammable or toxic, they can detonate at any time, even in small amounts. Improper handling can lead to uncontrolled fires, massive explosions, fragment projections or chain reactions.

At Enviro Urgence, we know that speed and precision are critical. That’s why we act quickly, using the right equipment, to contain, secure, and clean up sites affected by Class 1 dangerous goods.

Laws and regulations

In Canada, Class 1 dangerous goods are subject to extremely strict rules. To ensure everyone’s safety, the regulatory framework relies on two main pillars :

Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) regulations

Administered by Transport Canada, this regulation governs all road, rail, air and marine transport of dangerous goods. It specifies :

• Substance classification
• Approved packaging and container standards
• Labelling and signage requirements
• Mandatory transport documentation
• Emergency procedures in case of an incident

Any company transporting, receiving or shipping a Class 1 substance must fully comply with these requirements.

Explosives act

Administered by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), this law governs the manufacture, possession, storage and sale of explosives. It requires :

• Specific licenses Enhanced safety measures for storage
• Regular inspections of facilities
• Full traceability of explosive products
• Severe penalties for non compliance

Its goal is to prevent theft, diversion, or criminal use of explosives.

Mandatory signage

All Class 1 materials must be clearly and legally identified, allowing responders (carriers, firefighters, first responders) to react quickly and safely in case of an incident.

Legal requirements include :

• Orange hazard label with a black explosion symbol and the number “1” in the lower corner
• Visible UN number (e.g., UN 0336 for fireworks)
• Compatibility group letter (A to S) based on the product type
• Mandatory hazard placards on transport vehicles
• Shipping documents detailing the nature, quantity, class, emergency instructions, and response plan

Failure to meet these obligations may result in fines, license suspension or criminal prosecution.

Transport and storage

Transporting and storing explosives leaves no room for improvisation. Every step must follow strict standards, as even one error can endanger lives, infrastructure, and the environment.

Transport conditions : vehicles, training and permits

As outlined in TDG Regulations, only declared and authorized companies can transport Class 1 materials. The law requires :

• Approved vehicles designed to limit vibration, heat, and shock, some trailers may need reinforced tie-down systems or protective barriers
• Class 1 hazard placards on all sides of the vehicle, with the product’s UN number
• Certified drivers who have completed TDG training specific to Class 1

Special permits for certain explosives transported over long distances or through sensitive areas (tunnels, bridges, urban zones) in some cases, prior coordination with emergency services is mandatory

Storage conditions

Storing Class 1 dangerous goods is even more sensitive than transport. A poorly designed or ventilated warehouse can become a major hazard. To meet legal requirements :

• Explosives must be kept in an isolated, locked, and ventilated building, away from heat sources, open flames, or uncertified electrical equipment
• Storage sites must be at a regulated distance from inhabited areas, depending on the quantity and nature of the explosives
• Danger signs, safety lighting, suitable fire extinguishers, and an evacuation plan must be in place
• No other dangerous goods class should be stored in the same location unless chemical compatibility is certified
• Access must be restricted to trained and authorized personnel only

Storage must prevent accidental detonation and allow rapid intervention in case of fire or leakage

Enviro Urgence, your trusted partner for transporting Class 1 dangerous goods

Transporting dangerous goods leaves no room for error.

That’s why so many companies choose Enviro Urgence to handle such operations. With our highly trained team, specialized equipment, and deep understanding of TDG regulations, we ensure compliant, fast, and safe transportation of your Class 1 dangerous goods across Quebec.

Whether for industrial explosives, ammunition, or fireworks, we support you at every step: risk assessment, documentation, traceability, logistics, and incident response. Trust a partner who combines technical expertise with emergency responsiveness — 24/7.