Indicator Fuse

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW An indicator fuse is a small paper tube about 1/3-inch (8 mm) in diameter and 3/4-inch (20 mm) long, with two insulated wires protruding from one end that terminate in spade lugs. The fuse contains between 25 and 35 milligrams of lead explosive. Indicator fuses are detonated electrically and are sensitive to friction, impact, heat, flame and electric currents, including currents caused by static electricity, radio transmitters and electrical storms. Exposure to any of these items may cause indicator fuse to explode. Indicator fuses are classified as explosives, represent a detonation hazard in small numbers and a mass explosion hazard in bulk. Detonation can produce shrapnel.

Health hazards

The explosive mixture is sealed inside indicator fuses and does not present a health hazard in normal use and handling. If indicating fuses are detonated unintentionally, they can cause severe trauma and even death. Trauma will be primarily to the eyes, face and hands, from a shock wave and small amounts of flame and shrapnel. Since only very small quantities of post-detonation gases, including lead oxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, are released, the fumes are unlikely to be a health hazard in well-ventilated areas. If area is not well-ventilated, exposure may cause shortness of breath, headache, confusion, nausea, and dizziness. Excessive exposure, which is unlikely due to the small quantities of post-detonation gases, may reduce blood oxygen carrying capacity that may cause death.

Environmental hazards

When indicator fuses detonate, they do not produce environmental hazards.