Cremation & Alternative Disposition Flashcards
6 cards from real CMT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Cremation & Alternative Disposition flashcards as text
How long must funeral homes typically retain cremation authorization records under state regulations?
Answer: A minimum of several years, commonly 5–10 years depending on the state
Most states require cremation authorization records to be retained for a minimum of 5 to 10 years, though exact requirements vary by jurisdiction.
What is the primary purpose of the secondary chamber (afterburner) in a cremation retort?
Answer: To combust gases and particles from the primary chamber and reduce air pollution
The secondary chamber combusts gases, smoke, and particulates generated in the primary chamber, significantly reducing air emissions.
Which item is always removed before cremation due to the risk of explosion?
Answer: Cardiac pacemakers
Cardiac pacemakers contain sealed batteries that can explode when heated in a cremation retort, posing a serious safety hazard.
In natural organic reduction (NOR), human remains are converted into what end product?
Answer: Soil or compost
Natural organic reduction transforms the body into a rich soil amendment through a controlled composting process using organic materials.
What is a 'columbarium' in the context of cremation?
Answer: A structure with niches for storing urns of cremated remains
A columbarium is a building or wall structure containing individual niches where urns of cremated remains are placed and memorialized.
What regulation prohibits simultaneous cremation of multiple bodies unless specifically authorized by the family?
Answer: State funeral service licensing laws and cremation regulations
State funeral service laws and cremation regulations require individual cremation of each body unless families specifically authorize commingling, which is rare and restricted.