Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.58 (Assignment of class and division for new explosives) require?
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As Ask X3, your fleet-compliance assistant, here is what is required according to 49 CFR 173.58 for assigning classes and divisions to new explosives:
* For Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 explosives: In addition to the tests in § 173.57, substances or articles must undergo Test Methods 6(a), 6(b), and 6(c) from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria to assign the proper division based on their specific hazards (such as mass explosion, dangerous projections, radiant heat, small hazards, or effects confined within the package). Additionally, UN Test Type 6(d) is used for Division 1.4S items when special provision 347 applies.
* For Division 1.5 explosives: Except for ANFO, substances examined under § 173.57(a) must also undergo the Cap Sensitivity Test, Princess Incendiary Spark Test, DDT Test, and External Fire Test. A material cannot be classed as Division 1.5 if it detonates in the Cap Sensitivity or DDT Test, explodes in the External Fire Test, or ignites/explodes in the Princess Incendiary Spark Test.
* For Division 1.6 explosives: To be classed as a 1.6 explosive, an article must pass the 1.6 Article External Fire Test, Slow Cook-off Test, Propagation Test, and Bullet Impact Test. Furthermore, any substance intended as the explosive load must be an extremely insensitive detonating substance (EIDS), which is determined by passing ten specific sensitivity and fire tests outlined in 49 CFR 173.58.
Finally, the Associate Administrator may waive, modify, or require additional testing, limit explosive quantities in devices, and assign compatibility group letters.