South Carolina Code of Regulations
Chapter 57 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION-SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF FUNERAL SERVICE
Article 8 - CREMATORY REQUIREMENTS
Section 57-14.2 - Equipment and practices

Universal Citation: SC Code Regs 57-14.2

Current through Register Vol. 48, No. 3, March 22, 2024

(A) Each crematory must provide a holding facility of suitable size to accommodate all human remains which are retained and awaiting cremation.

(B) Each crematory must be equipped with a commercially manufactured cremation unit (retort), made specifically for the cremation of human remains and including the following features:

(1) An ash collection pan to minimize the commingling of cremated remains of one human with another;

(2) A hearth floor without depressions to minimize the commingling of cremated remains of one human with another;

(3) A door safety switch to stop the burner operation when the front charging door is opened;

(4) A pollution monitoring system to monitor and detect smoke when the density exceeds applicable state and federal standards, whereupon the system will automatically stop the burner operation on a time setting of not less than three (3) minutes;

(5) Approval by Underwriters Laboratory or a comparable laboratory.

(C) The cremation retort shall be in good working order at all times. If a retort is unavailable for any period exceeding twenty-four (24) hours, the crematory shall refuse to accept any body until such time as the retort is working, unless that body can be maintained under appropriate refrigeration as described in Subsection (E).

(D) A commercially manufactured processor made specifically for the pulverization of cremated remains and equipped with the following features:

(1) Capable of consistently processing cremated remains to unidentifiable dimensions;

(2) Rust resistant processing chamber;

(3) Exterior surface made of easily cleaned, non-corrosive material.

(E) If the crematory provides a refrigeration unit for the holding of human remains in its custody for twenty-four (24) or more hours, it must meet the following standards:

(1) Is capable of maintaining interior temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit while loaded with the maximum number of bodies for which it was designed;

(2) Has a surface of sealed concrete, stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum or other easily cleaned material.

(F) The crematory shall maintain a vacuum system in working order and able to capture small bone fragments as well as some residual dust.

(G) The crematory shall remove all remains from the retort at the conclusion of each cremation and shall minimize residual dust.

(H) The crematory shall be operated by a person listed on the official roster of the Board as a Certified Crematory Operator.

(I) The crematory will provide and require that its operator use proper safety equipment including:

(1) Heat Resistant Apron;

(2) Heat Resistant Gloves (at least to the elbow);

(3) Safety glasses with side shields, goggles or face shield.

(J) All cremains will be placed in a closed, rigid, and leak resistant container, specifically designed for the storage of cremains.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. South Carolina may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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