Safe Manual Handling of Body Bags and Remains

Handling remains is physically demanding. Back and shoulder injuries are common among mortuary, funeral and emergency workers. Good equipment and technique protect both staff and the dignity of the deceased.

Personal protective equipment

South Africa’s GN R.363 requires workers at mortuaries and undertakers’ premises to be provided with clean protective clothing – including surgical gloves, gumboots, plastic aprons, face masks and overcoats – and to wear it while handling remains. Your infection-prevention protocol may add eye protection, gowns or respirators for specific cases.

Team lifting

• Plan the lift: route, destination, number of handlers.
• Use enough people for the load and the bag’s handle layout.
• Lift by handles designed for lifting – never by the zip or the bag edge.
• One person leads and gives clear commands.
• Keep loads close to the body, bend knees, avoid twisting.

Equipment that reduces risk

• Slide sheets and transfer boards
• Height-adjustable trolleys
• Ceiling or mobile hoists, especially for bariatric cases
• Stretchers and scoop stretchers compatible with your bags
• Vehicle loading systems

Check the bag before use

Inspect for damage, confirm the size and safe working load, and check that the zip runs freely. A failure mid-lift is a safety hazard and a serious breach of dignity.

Training

Include manual handling, PPE donning and doffing, spill management and identification procedures in induction and refresher training. Record attendance.

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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.