Introduction
Mortuary racks form the backbone of efficient body storage systems in funeral homes, hospital morgues, medical examiner facilities, and coroner offices nationwide. While they may seem like simple storage equipment, the quality, construction, and design of mortuary racks directly impact facility operations, staff safety, equipment longevity, and overall cost-effectiveness.
The challenge many facilities face is finding the right balance between quality construction that ensures years of reliable service and affordable pricing that fits within budget constraints. Low-quality racks may save money initially but often lead to premature failure, safety hazards, and costly replacements within just a few years. Conversely, over-specifying equipment beyond your facility's actual needs wastes precious capital that could be invested elsewhere.
This comprehensive guide examines every critical aspect of mortuary rack selection—from stainless steel grades and weight capacities to configuration options and price considerations. Whether you're equipping a new facility, expanding capacity, or replacing aging equipment, understanding these key factors will help you make informed decisions that serve your facility well for decades to come.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've supplied mortuary racks to facilities of all sizes across the country. Our experience has shown that facilities who invest in quality racks from the start experience fewer operational issues, lower long-term costs, and greater staff satisfaction than those who prioritize the lowest initial price over proven performance.
Understanding Mortuary Rack Basics
What Are Mortuary Racks?
Mortuary racks are specialized storage systems designed to support body trays or stretchers within refrigerated morgue units or walk-in coolers. Unlike standard warehouse shelving, mortuary racks must meet specific requirements including:
- Medical-grade materials resistant to biological fluids and chemical cleaners
- High weight capacity to safely support deceased individuals (typically 300-750+ pounds per tier)
- Sanitary construction with smooth surfaces and minimal crevices where contamination can accumulate
- Corrosion resistance to withstand constant exposure to moisture and refrigerated environments
- Stable, rigid design that prevents swaying, tipping, or structural failure under load
Primary Applications
Mortuary racks serve various facility types with different requirements:
Funeral Homes: Typically need 2-6 tier systems supporting standard body storage during preparation and before services. Flexibility and ease of cleaning are priorities.
Hospital Morgues: Require durable racks capable of frequent use, quick turnaround, and accommodation of varying body sizes including pediatric and bariatric cases.
Medical Examiner Facilities: Need robust systems supporting intensive use, extended storage periods, and often specialized configurations for evidence preservation and forensic workflows.
Coroner Offices: Typically operate with moderate capacity needs but require reliable equipment capable of handling surge situations during mass casualty incidents.
University Anatomy Labs: Need specialized racks supporting cadaver storage for extended periods with easy access for educational purposes.
Disaster Mortuary Operations: Temporary facilities require portable, modular rack systems that deploy rapidly and support high-volume operations.
Material Selection: The Foundation of Quality
Stainless Steel: The Industry Standard
Stainless steel is the undisputed material of choice for professional mortuary racks due to its unique combination of properties:
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel naturally resists rust and corrosion even in constantly moist, refrigerated environments where carbon steel or painted steel would quickly deteriorate.
Chemical Resistance: Morgue cleaning protocols involve harsh disinfectants, bleach solutions, and chemical cleaners that would damage lesser materials. Stainless steel withstands repeated exposure without degradation.
Biological Fluid Resistance: Stainless steel's non-porous surface doesn't absorb biological fluids, preventing contamination and odor retention.
Ease of Cleaning: Smooth stainless steel surfaces wipe clean easily and can be thoroughly sanitized, critical for infection control.
Longevity: Quality stainless steel racks can last 20-30+ years with minimal maintenance, far exceeding the lifespan of painted or galvanized alternatives.
Professional Appearance: Stainless steel maintains its appearance indefinitely, unlike painted finishes that chip, scratch, and fade.
Stainless Steel Grade Considerations
Not all stainless steel offers equal performance. Understanding grade differences helps you specify appropriate materials:
Grade 304 Stainless Steel: The most common grade for mortuary applications, 304 stainless (also called 18-8 for its 18% chromium, 8% nickel content) provides excellent corrosion resistance, good formability, and is readily weldable. This grade is suitable for most indoor morgue applications and represents the minimum acceptable standard for professional equipment.
Grade 316 Stainless Steel: Contains added molybdenum providing superior corrosion resistance, particularly against chlorides and aggressive chemicals. While more expensive than 304, grade 316 is preferred for:
- Coastal facilities where salt air accelerates corrosion
- Facilities using particularly aggressive cleaning chemicals
- Applications requiring maximum longevity
- Medical examiner facilities with high-intensity use
Grade 430 Stainless Steel: A lower-cost alternative with less corrosion resistance (no nickel content). While sometimes used for budget racks, grade 430 is more prone to rust in refrigerated environments and should generally be avoided for professional mortuary applications.
Gauge Thickness Matters
Stainless steel gauge (thickness) dramatically affects rack strength and durability:
16-Gauge (0.0598"): Heavy-duty construction appropriate for primary structural components and heavy-load applications. Provides maximum strength and resistance to bending or warping.
18-Gauge (0.0478"): Standard for quality mortuary rack construction. Offers good strength-to-weight ratio and adequate rigidity for most applications.
20-Gauge (0.0359"): Lighter construction suitable for shelf surfaces on racks with adequate underlying support structure. Should not be used for main structural members.
22-Gauge and Thinner (0.0299" and less): Too thin for professional mortuary applications. Prone to bending, warping, and structural failure. Only acceptable for very light-duty applications or decorative trim.
Quality manufacturers specify gauge thickness for each component. Beware of racks simply described as "stainless steel" without gauge specifications—they likely use inadequate materials.
Alternative Materials: When and Why
While stainless steel is strongly preferred, some applications may consider alternatives:
Chrome-Plated Steel: Lower-cost option providing some corrosion protection. However, plating can chip or scratch, exposing underlying steel to rust. Not recommended for primary body storage but may be acceptable for temporary surge capacity or budget-constrained situations.
Powder-Coated Steel: Epoxy-coated carbon steel offers corrosion protection at lower cost than stainless. While better than bare steel, coating damage exposes metal to corrosion. Can be acceptable for dry storage areas but not ideal for refrigerated environments with frequent cleaning.
Aluminum: Lightweight and naturally corrosion-resistant, but softer than steel, making it prone to denting and bending. Weight capacity is limited. Rarely used for primary mortuary storage except in specialized portable applications.
The bottom line: Unless severe budget constraints dictate otherwise, specify 304 or 316 stainless steel in appropriate gauges for mortuary racks. The small additional upfront cost is recovered many times over through extended service life and reduced maintenance.
Weight Capacity: Critical Safety Consideration
Understanding Load Requirements
Mortuary racks must safely support substantial weight over many years of service. Inadequate weight capacity creates serious safety hazards including:
- Structural failure causing body trays to fall
- Bending or warping that makes trays difficult to insert or remove
- Tipping hazards from overloaded racks
- Injury risks to staff handling bodies on unstable racks
Standard Weight Capacity Specifications
Per-Tier Capacity: Each storage tier should support minimum 350 pounds safely, with 400-500 pounds preferred for general applications. This accommodates average body weight plus the weight of the storage tray (typically 20-40 pounds).
Total Rack Capacity: Multi-tier racks must support the combined weight of all tiers when fully loaded. A four-tier rack with 400-pound per-tier capacity needs total structural capacity of 1,600+ pounds, plus a safety margin.
Bariatric Requirements: Facilities serving populations with higher obesity rates should specify bariatric-capable racks with 600-750+ pound per-tier capacity. This requires:
- Heavier gauge stainless steel
- Additional support members
- Reinforced welds and joints
- Wider tier spacing
Safety Factors: Responsible manufacturers design racks with safety factors of 2:1 or higher, meaning a rack rated for 500 pounds per tier is engineered to support 1,000 pounds before failure. Always ask manufacturers about their safety factor specifications.
Construction Features That Support Weight
Welded vs. Bolted Construction: Welded construction generally provides superior strength and rigidity compared to bolted assemblies. All-welded frames eliminate joints that can loosen over time, though quality bolted racks using grade 8 bolts can also perform well if properly designed.
Reinforced Corners and Joints: High-stress areas including corners, tier attachment points, and support junctions should feature reinforcement plates, gussets, or additional welding to distribute loads and prevent failure.
Cross-Bracing: Lateral stability requires adequate cross-bracing that prevents racking (side-to-side movement) and maintains frame squareness even when fully loaded.
Leg/Foot Design: Racks should have wide, stable feet that distribute weight evenly and prevent floor damage. Adjustable leveling feet accommodate uneven floors while maintaining stability.
Tier Support Design: Individual storage tiers need adequate support members spaced to prevent sagging in the middle. Perimeter frame-only support is inadequate; look for center supports or closely-spaced cross-members.
Weight Capacity Testing and Certification
Reputable manufacturers conduct load testing to verify weight capacity claims. Ask for:
- Test methodology documentation
- Actual test results showing capacity before structural deformation
- Safety factor calculations
- Third-party testing certification (if available)
Be skeptical of manufacturers who cannot provide concrete data supporting their weight capacity claims.
Configuration Options: Finding the Right Fit
Stationary vs. Mobile Racks
Stationary Mortuary Racks:
- Fixed in position within refrigerated units
- Maximum stability and weight capacity
- Often wall-mounted or floor-anchored
- Best for permanent installations with established workflows
- Lower cost than mobile alternatives
- Suitable for most standard applications
Mobile Mortuary Racks:
- Mounted on heavy-duty locking casters
- Allow repositioning to optimize space utilization
- Facilitate deep cleaning behind and under racks
- Enable flexible workflow configurations
- Useful when body volume fluctuates significantly
- Essential for temporary or mobile morgue operations
- Higher cost due to caster systems and reinforced frames
Most facilities use primarily stationary racks with perhaps one or two mobile units for flexibility.
Tier Configuration and Spacing
Number of Tiers: Racks commonly feature 2-5 tiers. Considerations include:
Two-Tier Racks: Provide easy access to both levels without step stools or ladders. Good for facilities with limited ceiling height or staff ergonomic concerns.
Three-Tier Racks: Most popular configuration balancing capacity, accessibility, and cost. Fits standard refrigeration unit dimensions while maximizing storage density.
Four-Tier Racks: High-capacity solution for facilities with adequate ceiling height. May require step stools for top tier access.
Five+ Tier Racks: Maximum density for large-volume facilities. Requires adequate ceiling clearance and access equipment. Top tiers typically challenging to access regularly.
Tier Spacing: Vertical distance between tiers must accommodate:
- Body height plus clearance (minimum 18-20 inches for standard bodies)
- Tray thickness and any attached equipment
- Adequate space for staff to maneuver bodies onto/off trays
- Bariatric cases may require 24-30+ inches
Some manufacturers offer adjustable tier spacing, providing flexibility for different case types, though this feature adds cost.
Dimensional Considerations
Width: Standard mortuary racks range from 30-36 inches wide, accommodating standard body trays. Bariatric racks may be 40-48+ inches wide.
Depth: Typical depth is 72-84 inches, matching standard body tray lengths. Ensure adequate depth for your tallest cases plus a safety margin.
Height: Total rack height depends on tier count and spacing. Verify total height fits within your refrigeration unit or morgue space with adequate overhead clearance.
Custom Sizing: Most manufacturers offer custom dimensions for unique spaces or requirements, typically with minimal upcharge for standard modifications.
Special Configuration Options
Wall-Mounted Racks: Cantilevered from wall supports, eliminating floor-mounted legs. Benefits include:
- Easier floor cleaning (no legs to work around)
- Cleaner appearance
- Maximum floor space utilization
- Requires adequate wall structure for mounting
Pass-Through Racks: Open on both sides for walk-in coolers with receiving and releasing areas on opposite sides. Facilitates workflow but requires adequate space.
Combination Racks: Incorporate different tier heights or widths within one unit to accommodate varied case types (standard, pediatric, bariatric).
Drawer-Style Racks: Tiers pull out like drawers for easier body access, particularly for staff with ergonomic limitations. More expensive but can reduce injury risks.
Quality Construction Standards
Welding Quality
Superior mortuary racks feature continuous, fully-penetrating welds rather than intermittent tack welds:
Full-Length Welds: Connections should be welded along the entire joint length, not just spotted in a few places. Full welds provide maximum strength and eliminate crevices where contamination can accumulate.
Ground Smooth Welds: Welds should be ground flush with surrounding surfaces for easy cleaning and professional appearance. Protruding weld beads collect debris and are difficult to sanitize.
Proper Weld Penetration: Quality welds penetrate deeply into the base metal, creating metallurgical bonds stronger than the material itself. Surface-only welds will fail under stress.
Certified Welders: Ask if welders are AWS (American Welding Society) certified, demonstrating they've passed standardized competency testing.
Surface Finish
Smooth Surfaces: All surfaces should be smooth without sharp edges, burrs, or rough spots that could injure staff or snag materials. Quality manufacturers deburr and polish all cut edges.
Consistent Finish: The stainless steel finish should be uniform across the entire rack. Inconsistent appearance may indicate mixed materials or poor quality control.
#4 Brushed Finish: Standard for mortuary equipment, this finish conceals minor scratches and is easy to maintain. Mirror-polished finishes show every mark and require excessive maintenance.
Sealed Welds: All welded joints should be continuous without pinholes, porosity, or gaps that could harbor bacteria or allow fluid penetration.
Joint and Connection Design
No Exposed Threads: Threaded connections should be recessed or covered. Exposed threads collect debris and are nearly impossible to clean thoroughly.
Sealed Assemblies: Multi-piece assemblies should fit tightly without gaps. Even small crevices provide harborage for bacteria.
Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners: Any bolts, screws, or other fasteners must be stainless steel (minimum 304 grade) to match the rack construction. Mixing metals accelerates corrosion through galvanic action.
Reinforcement Plates: High-stress connections should include reinforcement plates that distribute loads across larger areas, preventing localized failure.
Functional Design Features
Tray Compatibility and Support
Mortuary racks must accommodate your specific body trays or stretchers:
Universal vs. Dedicated Design: Some racks work with any standard tray while others require specific tray designs. Verify compatibility before purchasing.
Support Method:
- Perimeter Support: Trays rest on frame rails around the perimeter. Simple and effective for rigid trays.
- Cross-Member Support: Internal supports prevent tray sagging in middle. Better for longer trays or heavy loads.
- Roller Systems: Ball-bearing rollers allow trays to slide in and out smoothly. Excellent for ergonomics but adds cost and maintenance.
- Fixed Slides: Stationary rails guide trays straight in and out. Durable with minimal maintenance.
Tray Retention: Some method should prevent trays from accidentally sliding out during transport or facility vibration. Options include:
- Positive stops at front of rails
- Slight upward angle to rails
- Retention clips or catches
Accessibility and Ergonomics
Easy Loading/Unloading: Tier design should allow staff to position bodies with minimal awkward postures or excessive reaching. Consider:
- Adequate vertical clearance between tiers
- Smooth tray insertion without binding
- Clear visibility of tier positions
- Sufficient working space in front of racks
Staff Safety Features:
- Rounded edges and corners to prevent cuts
- Non-slip surfaces on mobile racks
- Stable, rigid construction that doesn't sway
- Adequate lighting access (racks don't block overhead lights)
Maintenance Accessibility: Design should facilitate routine cleaning and inspection:
- Accessible surfaces without hard-to-reach areas
- Removable components for deep cleaning
- Open construction that doesn't trap debris
Adjustability Features
Leveling Feet: Adjustable leveling feet compensate for uneven floors, maintaining rack stability and proper tray operation. Look for:
- Stainless steel construction (plastic feet crack in cold)
- Wide bases that don't damage flooring
- Adequate adjustment range (typically 1-2 inches)
- Easy adjustment without special tools
Adjustable Tier Heights: Some premium racks allow tier spacing to be reconfigured in the field. Benefits include:
- Adapting to changing case mix (more bariatric vs. standard)
- Optimizing space utilization
- Accommodating different tray types Drawback: Higher initial cost and more complex construction.
Modular Expansion: Modular rack systems allow adding tiers or extending width as needs grow. Useful for facilities anticipating expansion but requires careful planning of original purchase.
Price Considerations and Value Analysis
Understanding Price Ranges
Mortuary rack pricing varies widely based on materials, construction quality, features, and capacity:
Budget Racks ($300-$800 per unit):
- Typically 20-22 gauge stainless or chrome-plated steel
- Lighter construction, lower weight capacity
- Basic design without advanced features
- May be suitable for very light duty or temporary use
- Often shorter lifespan (5-10 years)
Mid-Range Racks ($800-$1,800 per unit):
- Usually 18-gauge 304 stainless steel
- Solid construction adequate for most applications
- Standard features (adjustable feet, proper weight capacity)
- Good balance of quality and affordability
- Expected lifespan 15-20 years
Premium Racks ($1,800-$3,500+ per unit):
- Heavy-duty 16-gauge 304 or 316 stainless
- Superior welding and construction quality
- Advanced features (mobile, adjustable tiers, specialty configurations)
- Maximum weight capacity including bariatric
- Longest lifespan (20-30+ years)
Custom/Specialized Racks ($3,500+ per unit):
- Fully customized dimensions and features
- Specialized applications (forensics, research)
- Premium materials and construction
- Unique engineering requirements
Calculating True Cost
The lowest purchase price rarely represents the best value. Consider total cost of ownership:
Initial Purchase Price: Upfront capital investment
Installation Costs: Professional installation or staff time if self-installed
Operational Costs: Maintenance, cleaning supplies, repairs over equipment life
Replacement Frequency: Budget racks replaced every 7-10 years vs. premium racks lasting 25+ years means multiple repurchases
Downtime Costs: Rack failures create operational disruptions, require rental equipment, and may necessitate transferring bodies to other facilities
Safety and Liability: Structural failures can cause injuries, workers compensation claims, and liability exposure
Example Comparison:
Budget Rack:
- Purchase: $500
- Lifespan: 8 years
- Cost per year: $62.50
- Replacements over 25 years: 3 units = $1,500 total
- Higher risk of failure and safety issues
Premium Rack:
- Purchase: $1,600
- Lifespan: 25 years
- Cost per year: $64.00
- Replacements over 25 years: 0 = $1,600 total
- Superior reliability and safety
The premium rack costs only $1.50 more per year while providing substantially better quality, safety, and peace of mind.
Budget-Conscious Strategies
If budget constraints exist, consider these approaches:
Phase Implementation: Purchase premium racks gradually, replacing worst condition units first while keeping serviceable older racks temporarily.
Mixed Fleet: Use premium stationary racks for primary storage while budget-conscious mobile units provide surge capacity used infrequently.
Essential vs. Optional Features: Prioritize quality materials and construction over optional features. A well-built basic rack outperforms a poorly-built rack with features.
Volume Discounts: Purchasing complete facility needs at once typically qualifies for quantity discounts, potentially offsetting the higher per-unit cost of premium equipment.
Financing Options: Equipment financing spreads costs over time, making premium equipment more accessible. Monthly payments are often less than the value of improved reliability.
Used/Refurbished Equipment: Quality used racks from reputable suppliers can provide excellent value, though carefully inspect for damage, corrosion, or excessive wear.
Maintenance and Longevity
Routine Maintenance Requirements
Mortuary racks require minimal but important regular maintenance:
Daily/After Each Use:
- Wipe surfaces with appropriate disinfectant
- Remove any biological material or debris immediately
- Check for damage or issues requiring attention
Weekly:
- Thoroughly clean all surfaces including hard-to-reach areas
- Inspect welds and joints for any developing issues
- Verify tier supports remain level and properly positioned
- Check mobile rack casters for proper operation and locking
Monthly:
- Deep cleaning including removing trays to access all surfaces
- Inspect for any developing corrosion (particularly at welds or damage points)
- Lubricate moving parts if applicable (casters, drawer slides)
- Verify adjustable feet remain properly positioned
Annually:
- Comprehensive inspection by maintenance personnel
- Document any developing issues requiring eventual repair
- Evaluate overall condition and remaining service life
- Check structural integrity of welds and joints under load
Common Issues and Prevention
Corrosion: While stainless steel resists corrosion, damage or contamination can initiate rust. Prevention:
- Address any scratches or damage promptly
- Avoid cross-contamination with carbon steel tools
- Ensure adequate ventilation in storage areas
- Use appropriate cleaning chemicals (avoid chloride-containing cleaners on 304 stainless when possible)
Structural Deformation: Overloading or impacts can bend components. Prevention:
- Respect weight capacity limits
- Distribute loads evenly across tiers
- Use appropriate equipment when moving bodies
- Address any deformation immediately before it worsens
Welding Failures: Inadequate welds can crack over time. Prevention:
- Purchase quality racks with proven welding standards
- Inspect welds regularly for any developing cracks
- Address failures immediately through professional re-welding
Caster Issues (Mobile Racks): Wheels can fail or locks can malfunction. Prevention:
- Specify heavy-duty casters rated for application
- Keep casters clean and properly lubricated
- Replace damaged casters immediately
- Verify locks engage properly before loading
Extending Service Life
Proper Use: Using racks within designed parameters prevents premature wear and failure. Train staff on proper:
- Weight capacity limits
- Body positioning techniques
- Tray insertion/removal methods
- Cleaning procedures
Prompt Repairs: Address any damage or developing issues immediately. Small problems become major failures if ignored.
Quality Cleaning Products: Use cleaners compatible with stainless steel. Avoid abrasive cleaners that scratch surfaces and chloride-based cleaners that can initiate corrosion.
Environmental Control: Maintain proper refrigeration unit conditions:
- Stable temperatures prevent thermal stress
- Adequate ventilation prevents corrosive condition buildup
- Control humidity to minimize condensation
Professional Refurbishment: When racks show age but remain structurally sound, professional refurbishment (re-welding, surface restoration, component replacement) can extend life many additional years at a fraction of replacement cost.
Compliance and Safety Standards
Regulatory Considerations
While specific regulations vary by jurisdiction, mortuary racks typically must comply with:
OSHA Requirements: Workplace safety standards including:
- Adequate strength to safely support loads
- Design that doesn't create hazards (sharp edges, tip risks)
- Proper materials resistant to workplace chemicals
- Ergonomic considerations minimizing injury risks
State Funeral Board Regulations: Many states have requirements for funeral home equipment including materials, construction, and sanitation capabilities.
Local Health Department Standards: Municipal health departments may specify requirements for morgue facilities including equipment materials and design.
Building Codes: Rack installation must comply with local building codes including:
- Floor load capacity adequate for loaded racks
- Seismic bracing in earthquake-prone regions
- Proper anchoring to prevent tipping
Infection Control Standards: Healthcare facilities must meet infection prevention requirements including:
- Surfaces cleanable with hospital-grade disinfectants
- Non-porous materials that don't harbor pathogens
- Design facilitating thorough cleaning and sanitization
Safety Best Practices
Load Distribution: Never exceed rated weight capacity. Distribute heavy loads across multiple tiers rather than concentrating on one tier.
Anchoring: Tall racks or those in seismic zones should be anchored to walls or floors per manufacturer recommendations.
Clear Pathways: Maintain clear access to all racks. Don't block access with equipment or materials.
Adequate Lighting: Ensure good lighting around racks for safe body handling.
Personal Protective Equipment: Staff should use appropriate PPE when handling bodies or cleaning racks.
Proper Lifting Techniques: Train staff on body mechanics and team lifting to prevent injuries when positioning bodies.
Regular Inspections: Designated personnel should regularly inspect racks for any safety concerns.
Selection Checklist: Making Your Decision
Use this checklist when evaluating mortuary rack options:
Material and Construction
- 304 or 316 stainless steel (minimum 304)
- 18-gauge or heavier for structural components
- Fully welded construction or high-quality bolted assembly
- Welds ground smooth and continuous
- Uniform #4 brushed finish throughout
- No sharp edges or burrs
- Sealed joints without gaps or crevices
Capacity and Dimensions
- Adequate per-tier weight capacity (400-500 lbs minimum, 600+ for bariatric)
- Appropriate number of tiers for your volume
- Dimensions fit within your space
- Tier spacing accommodates your case mix
- Total capacity meets current and projected needs
Features and Functionality
- Compatible with your body trays
- Appropriate configuration (stationary or mobile)
- Smooth tray insertion and removal
- Adjustable leveling feet
- Safe, stable design
- Easy to clean thoroughly
- Adequate accessibility for staff
Quality and Value
- Reputable manufacturer with proven track record
- Comprehensive warranty coverage
- Documented weight capacity testing
- Reasonable price for quality level
- Expected 15-20+ year lifespan
- Positive user reviews from similar facilities
Support and Service
- Detailed specifications and documentation
- Installation support available
- Replacement parts available
- Responsive customer service
- References from other facilities
Conclusion: Investing in Quality Mortuary Racks
Mortuary racks may not be the most visible equipment in your facility, but they're fundamental to efficient, safe operations. The difference between quality racks and inadequate alternatives manifests daily in ease of use, staff safety, maintenance requirements, and longevity.
While budget constraints are real, penny-wise decisions on mortuary racks often prove pound-foolish. The small premium for quality stainless steel construction, adequate weight capacity, and proper design is recovered many times over through extended service life, reduced maintenance, improved safety, and peace of mind.

