If your funeral establishment or crematory receives a notice from the Department, it means a compliance inspection will take place within the next six months. These inspections are always unannounced, so the best way to approach them is to be prepared in advance.
The following is not an exhaustive list of items that will be reviewed during a compliance inspection. Rather, the information below highlights common trends and observations identified during recent compliance inspections.
Crematory Premises:
- Common concerns include improper disposal of residual cremated remains, cleanliness, and the crematory’s condition.
Refrigeration:
- Common concerns include the condition of decedent storage equipment and the refrigeration unit’s flooring.
Licenses:
- Common concerns include the conspicuous posting of current crematory and employee licenses.
Cremation Log and Performed Cremation Files:
- Common concerns include regulatory requirements not being met. Cremation logs and records regarding performed cremations should be reviewed for compliance.
- A consolidated version of Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Title 32, Chapter 12
- A copy of Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) Title 4, Chapter 12
- The following are available for your convenience on the Department’s website
If you ever have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Department at BLPOFuneral@azdhs.gov — or connect with us at AFCCA for support, resources, and community.