Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.50 (Class 1—Definitions) require?
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Based on 49 CFR 173.50, an explosive is defined as any substance, article, or device designed to function by explosion (an extremely rapid release of gas and heat), or one that can function in a similar manner through an internal chemical reaction (unless classed otherwise). This also includes pyrotechnic substances or articles unless otherwise classed.
Furthermore, 49 CFR 173.50 requires that explosives in Class 1 be categorized into six specific divisions based on their hazard characteristics:
* Division 1.1: Explosives with a mass explosion hazard that affects almost the entire load instantaneously.
* Division 1.2: Explosives with a projection hazard, but not a mass explosion hazard.
* Division 1.3: Explosives with a fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard, a minor projection hazard, or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.
* Division 1.4: Explosives presenting a minor explosion hazard where effects are largely confined to the package, without appreciable fragment projection, and where an external fire will not cause a virtually instantaneous explosion of almost the entire package contents.
* Division 1.5: Very insensitive explosives that have a mass explosion hazard, but are so insensitive that there is very little probability of initiation or transition from burning to detonation under normal transport conditions.
* Division 1.6: Extremely insensitive articles containing predominantly extremely insensitive substances that do not have a mass explosion hazard and show a negligible probability of accidental initiation or propagation (with risk limited to the explosion of a single article).