Understanding the Cremation Process

Planning for cremation, whether for yourself or a loved one, can be a daunting task during a difficult time. Understanding the steps involved can bring comfort and clarity. This blog explores the basics of the cremation process, empowering you to make informed decisions when the time comes. 

What is Cremation?

Cremation is a method for final disposition that reduces human remains to bone fragments. These fragments are then reduced into a fine powder, commonly known as “ashes” or cremated remains.

Types of Cremation

The two legal cremation processes available in the U.S. are flame-based cremation and alkaline hydrolysis.

• Flame-based cremation is the most common method of cremation, using intense heat and flame to reduce the body to bone fragments, also known as cremated remains or ashes. This is done using a machine called a retort. We will explain the process of flame-based cremation below. 
• Alkaline hydrolysis, also known as water cremation, is a more modern form of cremation that is currently allowed in select states within the U.S. This method uses a water-based dissolution process to reduce the body to bone fragments through alkaline chemicals, heat, and pressure to accelerate natural decomposition.

Steps of the Cremation Process

Transportation 

The mortuary will bring the individual into their care from the place of death and transport to their care center. They will be secured in a safe, cold storage while paperwork and plans are finalized. Starting at the time of transport, the deceased’s identity is carefully verified at each step to ensure a secure and continuous chain of identification.

Identification 

The individual is identified and assigned a stainless steel metal coin with a unique identification number or barcode on it that will stay with them throughout the cremation process. Each step must be documented from the initial point of transportation to the final disposition and return of the cremated remains to the designated individual. This is known as the Chain of Custody, the chronological documentation of the custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of remains and personal property. The main checkpoints during the cremation process are:

1. Pick-up of deceased from place of death
2. Transport to mortuary or cremation center
3. Placement in cold storage
4. Placement in retort chamber
5. Removal from retort chamber
6. Reduction of remaining bone fragments
7. Placement in urn or alternative container
8. Return to designated individual

Authorization 

The person(s) who has the right to control disposition of the individual who passed must sign a written authorization before cremation can proceed. It also includes an agreement to pay the costs for the cremation and disposition of the remains and for any other services desired. If you wish to arrange for your own cremation or hydrolysis, you can legally sign a cremation authorization as well as the Declaration for Disposition of Cremated or Hydrolyzed Human Remains form.

In addition, a permit for cremation must be issued by the county health department. The funeral establishment usually applies for and obtains this permit (Application and Permit for Disposition of Human Remains) as part of its services.

Preparation 

Preparation of the individual varies by facility but can include bathing and dressing. The individual is not typically embalmed for cremation unless the family wishes to have a viewing ceremony. Jewelry and other personal items are removed and returned to their loved ones, unless there is a specific request to remain with them for cremation. This will vary depending on the cremation provider. 

Mechanical, battery-operated, and radioactive medical devices and prosthetics are also removed prior to cremation to prevent safety issues.

Lastly, the individual is verified and placed in a cremation container designed for the dignified transportation to the crematory as well as for the cremation process. For cremation, a combustible cremation container, also known as an alternative container, is required. The container must be one that can be closed and leak resistant. There are many types of alternative containers to choose from as well as caskets specifically designed for cremation, using non-toxic materials and wood construction. Metal caskets cannot be cremated.  

Cremation

The crematory operator will then move the cremation container into the retort using rollers. A retort is the proper name for the primary chamber of a furnace where the cremation process takes place. The retort is lined with heat-resistant materials and designed to withstand extremely high temperatures, upwards of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The identification coin is placed inside the retort with the cremation container. The cremation process will generally take 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the retort, material of the cremation container, and composition of the deceased. The cremation chamber usually occurs between 1400 and 1600 degrees Fahrenheit. This process is monitored by the crematory operator. Once cremation is complete, the remaining bone fragments are swept out of the retort and placed onto a cooling tray. 

Once the bone fragments have cooled, they are then broken down until they are less than ⅛” in size. The cremated remains will look like sand, or what people commonly referred to as ashes. These ashes are transferred to a sturdy plastic bag sealed with the identification coin or label that was with them throughout the cremation process. The bag is then placed in a durable container or urn. 

Return

In the final stages, the individual’s remains are returned to the family in a temporary container, urn or other keepsake. Most families chose to have a memorial service or celebration of life with the urn as a final farewell ceremony for their loved one.

Stay Informed

Understanding the cremation process can help provide comfort during a difficult time. By learning what to expect, families can make informed decisions that honor their loved one and their final wishes. At Green Hills, we are committed to helping you every step of the way. We’re here to guide you with compassion and integrity to help you create a meaningful farewell for your loved one. 

Additional Resources

• Understanding Final Arrangements After a Loved One Passes Away
• Compassionate Words: What to Say at a Funeral
• Death Certificate FAQs

About Green Hills

We believe that every end-of-life celebration is as unique as the person being celebrated. We’ll help you create a memorial that honors your loved one in a way that feels special and authentic. If you’re planning for the future, our Advance Planning advisors will help you remove the burden from your family members and organize a ceremony that allows them to gather, heal, and reminisce.

To learn more about how advanced funeral planning can protect your loved ones, find out what to do if a loved one is ill, or just say hello, contact our team today. Celebrate a life well-lived in a beautiful, serene environment.  www.greenhillsla.com