Cremation Process

According to the Federal Trade Commission, no state requires embalming for every death. Some states do mandate embalming if the body is not cremated or buried within a designated period of time. Others have no restrictions at all. 

With that being said, funeral directors can require embalming if the body is to be on view in the funeral home. Furthermore, some funeral directors will tell you embalming is required by state law when, in fact, it is not. If your service provider insists that embalming is legally mandated in your state, ask them to show you a copy of the law. If they can’t produce it, you may file a complaint with the FTC. Telling you a statute exists when it does not is both unethical and illegal. 

Many people in the United States and Canada believe that embalming is an essential part of after-death care. However, according to the Funeral Consumers Alliance, embalming provides no public health benefit at all. What’s more, the chemicals used in embalming are so toxic that the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health requires embalmers to wear respirators and full body protection when handling them. 

The only true reason to embalm a body is to preserve it for an extended period of time — for example, during interstate or international transport. As of 2016, two states, Alabama and Alaska,  require embalming when a body crosses state lines. Five other states — California, Kansas, Minnesota and New Jersey — require embalming when a body is being transported by “common carrier” (air cargo or train). 

If you are arranging cremation and wish to forego embalming, make your wishes clear to the service provider before contracting with them.  If they cannot or will not accommodate you, search for a provider who will. Alternatively, you may choose direct cremation shortly after the death. Direct cremation typically requires no preparation of the body at all.

For an overview of state laws about embalming and after-death care, refer to the National Home Funeral Alliance’s overview of state law. If you have additional questions or wish to find out more about legalities in your state, contact your state officials and local chapter of the Funeral Consumer Alliance or call the FCA headquarters at 802-865-8300.

Sources

“The FTC Funeral Rule”. Federal Trade Commission – Consumer Alliance. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ftc-funeral-rule 

“Embalming Explained”. Funeral Consumers Alliance. https://funerals.org/get-help/making-decisions/embalming-explained/ 

“Laws by US State”. National Home Funeral Alliance. https://www.homefuneralalliance.org/state-laws.html 

Pacemakers and other battery-powered devices must be removed before cremation since they pose a safety risk. The lithium batteries used in pacemakers will likely explode when exposed to high temperatures during cremation, and these explosions can seriously harm the staff or damage the crematory chamber at the facility. If your loved one had a pacemaker before death, the funeral home or crematory has trained staff who are experienced in the proper removal of these implanted devices. Even so, it is crucial to proactively notify them of the presence of any devices before the cremation process begins. 

During the discussion regarding removing the pacemaker, you will be asked to decide what should be done with the device after removal. The most common options include recycling pacemaker materials, donating them so they can be reconditioned to help other individuals, or returning the device ot the manufacturer for research purposes. Many individuals find it comforting to know that their loved one’s pacemaker can be repurposed to function as a lifesaving measure for someone else in need of the device.

 In summary, the removal of a pacemaker prior to cremation is paramount in the prevention of safety hazards in the funeral home or crematory. This key precaution ensures that the retort is not damaged, staff are not harmed, and cremated remains are preserved as requested. 

Sources 

“Why a Pacemaker Should Be Removed Prior to Cremation”. Neptune Society. https://neptunesociety.com/resources/cremation-planning/why-pacemaker-should-be-removed-prior-to-cremation 

“Can You Be Cremated With a Pacemaker?” Farewill. https://farewill.com/articles/can-you-be-cremated-with-a-pacemaker 

“Can recycled pacemakers from the U.S. save lives overseas?” University of Michigan. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/can-recycled-pacemakers-us-save-lives-overseas 

The time between the date of death and cremation is typically 24 to 48 hours, depending on state regulations. There may be a longer waiting period in some states since crematories cannot proceed with performing the cremation until they have the death certificate on file and cremation authorization completed. Likewise, doctors and medical examiners have their own time limits to sign and approve the certificate. Cremation may also be delayed if there are concerns surrounding the cause of death, such as if further investigation or an autopsy needs to be conducted. While a 24 to 48-hour waiting period is standard, families can wait to have their loved one cremated if they choose to do so, or if they would like to hold a viewing before cremation takes place

Most states will adhere to a 24-hour waiting period, although there are some states that specifically require a 48-hour waiting period before cremation can commence. Since this can vary from state to state, we recommend checking requirements with your local funeral director. Ultimately, the longer waiting period is intended to ensure that there is enough time for authorizations and paperwork to be completed. If there are any mistakes, errors, or inconsistencies in the paperwork, the additional time ensures that appropriate corrections can be made. Typically, authorizations and paperwork can be completed and collected within 48 hours. However, in some cases, delays may occur. These delays are often a result of doctors taking longer to certify the death or encountering challenges in obtaining the required signatures and authorizations from the person with the right to control disposition.

In general, the wait between the date of death to the time of cremation is usually only a matter of days. Since the length of time can vary by state, reaching out to the funeral director to inquire about when the cremation is authorized to begin is an ideal way to set expectations and further prepare with loved ones. Additionally, ensuring that they have the necessary contact information in case additional signatures or authorizations are needed can help avoid potential delays. 

Sources

“Cremation Timeline: How Long Is There Between Death and Cremation?” Titan Casket. https://titancasket.com/blogs/funeral-guides-and-more/cremation-timeline-how-long-is-there-between-death-and-cremation 

“How Long Is The Waiting Period Between Death and Cremation in Florida?” Going Home Cremations. https://goinghomecremations.com/how-long-is-the-waiting-period-between-the-death-and-cremation/ 

A cremation authorization form is a legal document that gives permission for the person who died to be cremated. This form typically needs to be completed and signed by the next of kin or a legal representative of the person who died. It may also be signed by the person themselves if self-authorizing during prearrangement or in their last will and testament. (The laws around this differ from state to state.) The form ensures that the wishes of the deceased are respected and carried out..

In order to get cremation authorization, you’ll need the death certificate signed by a medical professional with the cause of death noted. (This is to ensure that no foul play has occurred and no death investigation is pending, as no DNA remains following cremation). The cremation authorization form also outlines any specific instructions or requests for the cremation, such as whether or not any personal belongings should be cremated with the body. It also typically includes who is to receive the cremated remains after the process is complete.

The purpose of a cremation authorization form is to protect both the funeral home or crematorium and the family of the deceased. By obtaining written authorization, there is a clear record of consent from the appropriate parties. This helps to prevent any potential legal disputes or misunderstandings regarding the cremation process.

Sources

“Why Cremation Authorization and Approvals Are Necessary”. Direct Cremate. https://www.directcremate.com/why-cremation-authorization-and-approvals-are-necessary/ 

“Who Has to Sign the Cremation Authorization Certificate?” TruPoint Memorials. https://trupointmemorials.com/a/s/answers/cremation/who-has-to-sign-the-cremation-authorization-certificate 

After a body has arrived at the crematorium or funeral home, it is typically prepared for cremation by being bathed and dressed. If a body is going into direct cremation, it will be placed in refrigerated storage in the clothing worn at time of death. Any jewelry the family wishes to keep is removed, along with any mechanical or battery-operated medical devices like pacemakers or certain prosthetic limbs. If the body is being viewed before cremation, it will be embalmed for the service then placed in refrigerated storage following.

When ready for cremating, the body is placed inside a sturdy, combustible container that is suitable for cremation. This is often a simple cardboard box or a wooden casket. From there, it will go into the cremation chamber, also known as a retort.

Sources

“How Is a Body Prepared for Cremation? Cremation Explained”. Cremation Green. https://www.cremation.green/how-is-a-body-prepared-for-cremation-cremation-explained/ 

“How does cremation work? Exploring the Process from Start to Finish”. Lincoln Heritage Funeral Advantage. https://www.lhlic.com/consumer-resources/how-does-cremation-work/#prepare 

A certificate of cremation or cremation certificate is an official document that verifies completion of the cremation process for the person who died, and generally goes to next-of-kin (who is receiving the remains). It serves as legal proof that the person has been properly cremated and their remains have been handled according to state regulations. The certificate of cremation contains essential information including:

• Name of the person who died
• Date of the cremation
• Name and address of the crematorium
• A crematorium ID number for the person cremated
• Signature of a representative from the crematorium

It’s important to retain the certificate of cremation along with the death certificate, as it will be required anywhere you need to verify that the disposition occurred as planned. It’s also required for traveling with cremated remains on an airplane, and is helpful for family record-keeping.

Obtaining a copy of a cremation certificate

If you need an additional copy or replacement of a loved one’s cremation certificate, the first step is to contact the funeral home or crematorium where the service took place. They should be able to provide you with an official copy of the certificate upon request. You can also contact your state’s vital records office which will also have a copy on file.

Sources

“What is a Cremation Certificate?” Cremation Green. https://www.cremation.green/what-is-a-cremation-certificate/ 

Most crematories will allow family members and loved ones to witness the cremation process if it is requested, although some crematories have their own policies or procedures that may prohibit this option. Known as a witnessed cremation, this service allows family members and loved ones to either view the full cremation process or the moment when the body of the person who died is placed into the retort, or cremation chamber. Reaching out directly to the crematory provider to ask whether this option is available is highly encouraged since it can help clarify if there are any requirements or restrictions associated with attendance. 

The witnessing portion of the experience can vary based on how the crematory typically handles these requests. Some crematories have a special room that is designated for witnessing the cremation of a loved one. These rooms include comfortable seating for the attendees and usually feature a glass wall, a window, or a large screen for viewing the cremation. Sometimes, the setting for witnessing may be less comfortable and might only include a room that contains the retort. The crematory may also limit the amount of time spent witnessing the cremation. Since a cremation can take two to five hours, some crematories will only allow family members and loved ones to witness the portion of the process involving the retort. However, there are some crematories that still allow attendees to witness the majority of the process if that is their preference. 

There are a variety of factors that affect a family’s decision to witness the cremation of a loved one. In some cultures and religions, viewing a cremation is a tradition. Some people may find that viewing a cremation provides them with a greater sense of closure since this is the last moment they will be able to be present with their loved one. Viewing the process can help them to achieve acceptance of the death, especially if they are in disbelief or struggling with skepticism due to their grief. Sometimes, the decision to witness the cremation may also be a matter of trust or a sense of protection since some people feel obligated to ensure that they receive the correct ashes. Finally, witnessing a cremation can provide one more moment to honor a loved one and reflect on their legacy or pay last respects. 

Sources

“Can I Get a Witness (Cremation)?” Cremation Association of North America. https://www.cremationassociation.org/blog/can-i-get-a-witness-cremation 

“Can Family Members Watch the Cremation?” Urns Northwest. https://urnsnw.com/blogs/default-blog/articles-can-family-members-watch-the-cremation 

“Why families choose to witness the cremation of a loved one” Phaneuf. https://phaneuf.net/blog/witness-cremation