Losing a loved one is incredibly difficult for all involved, so properly caring for deceased individuals with empathy and respect during preparation, transportation, and storage is paramount. Strict health and safety protocols must be practiced to safeguard both physical well-being and emotional needs. Investing in durable equipment, utilising proper techniques, and taking necessary precautions allows dignified handling. In this article, we’ll explain some of the main best practices for using and handling dead body bags, in order to maximise safety for the professionals involved, and maintain the dignity of the deceased.
How should dead bodies be handled at the scene? When initially dealing with a deceased person on site, no matter if it's in their home or another location, it is essential to exercise caution no matter the suspected cause of death. Respiratory droplets or contaminated surfaces can still present infection risks, so full personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, face masks, goggles, and fluid-resistant gowns should be worn.
Of course, take additional strict precautions when handling deceased individuals known to have suffered from infectious diseases, especially airborne or blood-borne illnesses. Notify your team of any infection risks associated with a body to prevent any infection from spreading.
Wear PPE whenever directly handling deceased bodies, even if they are stored inside professional body bags purchased from body bags and mortuary supplies dealers. This protects against fluid leakage and cross-contamination between cases. Proper PPE when dealing with body bags includes:
Also, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after handling cadavers and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Fluid retention and durability should be top priorities when selecting body bags from dead body bag manufacturers. Look for thick, leak-proof polyethylene materials able to withstand rigorous handling and transportation. High-quality body bags feature watertight zippers, multiple carrying handles, and exterior disinfectant wipe strips.
Choose sizes suited for average adult dimensions. Oversize XXL-XXXL body bags can accommodate obese deceased, and separate infant/child sizes are available for miniature bodies.
Always use proper lifting techniques when manoeuvring loaded body bags to avoid injuring your back or falling. So, make sure to bend your knees and keep your back straight, holding the weight close to your body. Point your feet in the direction of movement and avoid twisting while repositioning. Bring along assistants for guidance when descending stairs or loading into hearses. Use wheeled gurneys, hydraulic tables, and other handling equipment whenever possible.
Safe placement inside body bags will make subsequent transportation easier on both funeral staff and the deceased's remains. Gently arrange the body flat on its back, evenly aligned inside so the weight stays centred. Position arms at the body's sides whenever possible. Should further adjustment be needed during transfer, take care to not pull or awkwardly rotate extremities.
When closing the bag, zip up slowly and check for snags to prevent unintended lacerations. Also, avoid overfilling bags as excess strain can cause seam rips or cracks.
By following these crucial procedures and using purpose-built equipment from a reputable dead body bag manufacturer, such as Slik Pak, funeral directors can help guarantee deceased in their care are treated with the utmost dignity and respect from collection through memorial. Staying up-to-date on safety protocols protects you and allows families some peace during enormously difficult times.
Contact us today to speak to one of our experts. We can advise on selecting the most appropriate body bags to safely meet your needs with dignity and respect.
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