Knowledge Centre, Procurement & Tenders, Sizing & Selection

Body Bag Selection Checklist for Procurement Officers

Posted on by Tapiwa

Use this checklist when writing a specification, comparing quotes or receiving stock.

1. Application

  • ☐ Routine hospital / clinic deaths
  • ☐ Funeral home removals and transport
  • ☐ Forensic / medico-legal
  • ☐ Disaster and mass-fatality preparedness
  • ☐ High-risk infectious cases (per protocol)
  • ☐ Bariatric
  • ☐ Paediatric / neonatal
  • ☐ Natural burial

2. Specification

  • ☐ Internal dimensions (L x W)
  • ☐ Material type
  • ☐ Thickness in microns, per layer
  • ☐ Seam construction (welded / sewn / taped)
  • ☐ Zip type and flap
  • ☐ Number and type of handles
  • ☐ Safe working load with test method
  • ☐ ID pocket / label panel / tags
  • ☐ Tamper-evident or lockable closure (if forensic)
  • ☐ Colour (and internal meaning, if any)
  • ☐ Chlorine-free requirement (if cremation or protocol requires)

3. Evidence

  • ☐ Technical datasheet with test methods
  • ☐ Manufacturer name and country of origin
  • ☐ Batch / lot traceability
  • ☐ Samples supplied for evaluation
  • ☐ Safety data sheet for materials where required

4. Commercial

  • ☐ Unit price ex VAT and incl. 15% VAT
  • ☐ Pack size and minimum order quantity
  • ☐ Lead time and stock availability
  • ☐ Delivery terms and destination
  • ☐ Validity of quotation
  • ☐ Supplier registration (e.g. CSD for government buyers), tax compliance and B-BBEE status where required

5. Receiving inspection

  • ☐ Quantity and size match order
  • ☐ Spot-check thickness
  • ☐ Check seams, zip operation and handles on samples
  • ☐ Record batch numbers
  • ☐ Store clean, dry, away from sunlight and heat

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Need a quote or a specification check? Send your quantities, sizes and application to our Bulk & Tender Enquiries desk and we will match products to your requirements.

Educational resource only. This article does not replace facility protocols, infection-prevention policies, official forensic procedures, manufacturer instructions or legal advice. Always verify product suitability against the applicable protocol and supplier test evidence. Last reviewed: October 2026.

Tapiwa