Maximizing Space and Dignity in Mortuary Management
Body storage racks are tiered storage systems designed specifically for morgues, funeral homes, medical examiner offices, and hospitals to efficiently store and manage deceased remains while maintaining dignity and proper handling.
| Key Features of Body Storage Racks |
|---|
| ✓ Multi-tier configurations (2-5 tiers) |
| ✓ Various loading types (end, side, multi-directional) |
| ✓ 375 lb weight capacity per tray |
| ✓ 18-gauge stainless steel construction |
| ✓ Compatible with mortuary lifts |
| ✓ Increase storage capacity by up to 300% |
The primary challenge for any mortuary facility is maximizing limited space while ensuring respectful handling of the deceased. Body storage racks address this need by offering vertical storage solutions that can increase capacity by up to 300% compared to single-level storage options.
These specialized racks come in multiple configurations to suit different facility layouts and workflow requirements. Whether you need cantilever systems for quick access, roller racks for easy movement, or portable options for surge capacity, there's a solution designed to improve both efficiency and staff safety.
I'm Mortuary Cooler, with over a decade of experience designing and supplying body storage racks for funeral homes and medical facilities nationwide. My work with American Mortuary Coolers has given me knowledge of how proper storage solutions transform mortuary operations.
Must-know body storage racks terms:
What Are Body Storage Racks & Why They Matter
Body storage racks aren't just metal shelving—they're essential systems designed to hold the deceased with dignity and respect while maximizing space in mortuary settings. These specialized racks serve as the backbone of operations across a variety of facilities:
- Morgues and medical examiner offices
- Funeral homes and mortuaries
- Hospital pathology departments
- Disaster response centers
- University anatomy labs
I remember speaking with a funeral director in Atlanta who told me, "Before upgrading to a proper tiered rack system, we struggled with limited cooler space. Now we can accommodate three times the capacity while maintaining better organization and more respectful handling." It's stories like these that highlight the real-world impact of quality equipment.
The importance of well-designed body storage racks goes far beyond just having a place to store remains. These systems directly impact how we honor the deceased, protect staff, and manage facilities during both routine operations and crisis situations.
When COVID-19 hit, many facilities finded just how critical proper storage solutions are. A medical examiner in Chicago shared with me, "Our multi-tier portable racks were literally lifesavers during peak periods, allowing us to manage the increased caseload with dignity." In those difficult times, having the right equipment made an impossible situation manageable.
Core Functions of Body Storage Racks
Body storage racks do much more than provide a resting place. They serve several critical functions that transform mortuary operations:
Space maximization is perhaps the most obvious benefit—by utilizing vertical space with multiple tiers (typically 2-5 levels), these racks can increase your storage capacity by up to 300% compared to traditional floor-level storage. This means making the most of your existing cooler without expensive expansions.
Temperature control compatibility is equally important. Properly constructed racks ensure consistent cooling around each body, with designs that allow air circulation while maintaining the integrity of your refrigeration system.
Staff ergonomics might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it's something we hear about constantly from customers. Features like roller systems, compatible lifts, and appropriate heights dramatically reduce strain and injury risk during transfers.
A funeral director in Dallas once told me, "The organization aspect alone justifies the investment. We can locate and access specific remains quickly and respectfully, which makes a tremendous difference for both our staff and the families we serve." That level of organization creates a more dignified environment for everyone involved.
How Body Storage Racks Improve Safety & Efficiency
Implementing proper body storage racks creates immediate improvements in both safety and operational efficiency:
From a safety perspective, quality racks dramatically reduce manual handling through integrated roller systems. Compatible lift systems minimize staff injuries that commonly occur during transfers. Secure storage prevents accidental movement, and proper identification systems help prevent misidentification—a concern that keeps many facility managers up at night.
On the efficiency side, streamlined body transfers with roller mechanisms make a world of difference in daily operations. You'll also benefit from quick visual inventory of stored remains, maximized use of available cooler space, and improved workflow with organized storage.
I'll never forget what a medical examiner from Pittsburgh told me after installing new racks: "The roller system on our new racks has reduced staff strain injuries by nearly 70%. Bodies can be transferred smoothly from transport gurneys to storage with minimal lifting." Those kinds of improvements make a real difference in staff morale and longevity.
Perhaps most importantly, modern rack systems help prevent misidentification errors. The CSI Jewett fixed storage racks, for example, allow cadavers to remain on a single tray throughout the entire process from receiving through disposition, significantly reducing handling errors and misidentification risks.
More info about rack efficiency
Types of Body Storage Racks
The mortuary industry uses several distinct types of body storage racks, each designed for specific facility needs, space constraints, and workflow requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right system for your operation.
Cantilever Body Storage Racks
Cantilever racks feature open-front designs with stainless steel support arms that extend from a central frame. These racks offer several advantages:
- Unobstructed access from the front
- Quick visual inventory of stored remains
- Compatible with standard body trays
- Typically available in 2-4 tier configurations
- Modular construction for on-site assembly
The Model SR1556 from CSI Jewett exemplifies this design with its four-tier configuration and large screw-type leveling feet for stable installation. These racks are particularly popular in medical examiner offices and university anatomy labs where frequent access is required.
A mortuary manager in New York shared: "The cantilever design gives us quick access to any body without disturbing others. It's especially helpful during busy periods when we're receiving multiple cases simultaneously."
Cantilever racks can be further improved with security straps to prevent accidental movement of trays and adjustable arms to accommodate different tray widths.
Portable Body Storage Racks
Portable body storage racks provide flexibility for facilities with changing needs or those requiring surge capacity. Key features include:
- Tool-less assembly for rapid deployment
- Casters for mobility within facilities
- Lightweight yet durable construction
- Collapsible design for storage when not in use
- Field-ready for disaster response
These systems have proven invaluable during mass casualty events and pandemic surges. Their modular, field-deployable design allows for quick setup in temporary morgues or overflow areas.
One emergency management director in the Southeast Region told us: "During hurricane response, we deployed our portable racks within hours. The tool-less assembly meant we could quickly establish dignified temporary storage in a challenging environment."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've designed our portable solutions to maintain the same dignity and respect as permanent installations while offering the flexibility needed for uncertain circumstances.
End & Side Loading Racks
The choice between end-loading and side-loading body storage racks significantly impacts workflow and space utilization:
| Feature | End-Loading Racks | Side-Loading Racks |
|---|---|---|
| Access Direction | From narrow end | From long side |
| Ideal Cooler Layout | Deep, narrow spaces | Wide, shallow spaces |
| Aisle Requirements | Narrower aisles | Wider aisles |
| Space Efficiency | Maximizes bodies per wall | Maximizes accessibility |
| Typical Applications | Space-constrained facilities | High-throughput operations |
End-loading racks are accessed from the head/foot end of the body, requiring less aisle space but more depth. Side-loading racks are accessed from the long side of the body, requiring wider aisles but less depth.
"Your cooler dimensions should dictate your rack choice," explains our installation specialist from Columbia, SC. "In a typical 10' x 12' cooler, side-loading racks along one wall might allow for 6-9 bodies, while end-loading could accommodate 8-12 bodies in the same space."
Multi-Directional & Roller Racks
Multi-directional body storage racks represent the pinnacle of mortuary storage technology, featuring:
- 360° access for loading/unloading
- Nylon roller wheels for smooth movement
- Integrated brake systems for secure positioning
- Seamless integration with lift systems
- Available in 2-5 tier configurations
These sophisticated systems use heavy-duty nylon roller wheels (typically five per side) to facilitate smooth movement of body trays in multiple directions. The Roller Brake system, highlighted in customer testimonials, improves stability during loading and unloading operations.
A funeral director from Los Angeles shared: "Our multi-directional roller rack has transformed our prep room workflow. Bodies can be transferred from any angle with minimal effort, and the brake system ensures everything stays securely in place."
These systems are particularly valuable in high-volume facilities where bodies are frequently moved between storage, preparation areas, and viewing rooms.
Materials & Construction Standards
When it comes to body storage racks, what they're made of matters just as much as how they're designed. At American Mortuary Coolers, we've spent years learning which materials stand up to the unique challenges of mortuary environments.
Industry Standard Materials
The gold standard for body storage racks is 18-gauge stainless steel, and for good reason. This material creates a perfect balance of strength, cleanability, and longevity that mortuary professionals depend on.
"We've had our stainless racks for over 15 years now," a funeral director from Oregon told me recently. "They look almost as good today as when we installed them, even with daily use."
While stainless steel leads the industry, you'll also find quality racks made from:
- Aluminum - lighter weight and still resists corrosion, though typically not as durable as stainless
- Powder-coated steel - more budget-friendly but requires more careful maintenance to prevent rust in humid cooler environments
What makes stainless steel worth the investment? It creates a non-porous surface that bacteria can't easily penetrate. It stands up beautifully to the cold, damp environment inside coolers. And perhaps most importantly, it can be thoroughly sanitized with standard disinfectants without degrading over time.
As our manufacturing team in Johnson City likes to say, "We build these racks like we're building them for our own family's funeral home." That philosophy shows in every weld and finish.
Construction Features
Quality construction in body storage racks isn't just about the materials—it's about the thoughtful details that make a difference in daily use.
Marine edges on trays might seem like a small feature, but they're crucial for containing bodily fluids and preventing cross-contamination. Smooth, polished welds eliminate hiding places for bacteria and make thorough cleaning possible.
"The first thing I check on any rack is the quality of the welds," explains our installation specialist who's been with American Mortuary Coolers for over a decade. "Those joints tell you everything about how the rack will perform long-term."
Other construction features to look for include large screw-type leveling feet that keep racks stable even on uneven floors, and modular designs that allow for easy on-site assembly without welding.
All our racks adhere to the Rack Manufacturers Institute's 2-to-1 safety factor guidelines, meaning they're engineered to safely hold twice their rated capacity—though we never recommend exceeding the stated limits.
Rack Manufacturers Institute safety
Weight Capacities & Standard Dimensions
Understanding the standard measurements of body storage racks helps ensure you're making the right choice for your facility's needs.
Most quality racks are designed to support 375 pounds per tray—sufficient for most situations, though bariatric options are available when needed. The overall rack capacity varies based on how many tiers you choose and the specific construction.
Standard dimensions follow the needs of the human body and standard mortuary trays:
- Bay width typically ranges from 27¼″ to 31¼″
- Bay length is standardized at 80″ in most cases
- Each tier provides about 13″ of clearance height
As you add tiers, the overall height increases predictably—a 2-tier rack stands about 38″ tall, while a 5-tier can reach approximately 77″. When planning your cooler layout, our space planning team always recommends leaving at least 6 inches of clearance above your highest tier for proper air circulation and ease of access.
A medical examiner from Michigan shared, "We initially wanted 5-tier racks for maximum capacity, but realized our staff would struggle reaching the top tier safely. The 4-tier was the perfect compromise between capacity and accessibility."
Infection Control & Cleaning Considerations
In mortuary settings, proper sanitation isn't just about appearances—it's a critical health and safety requirement. Well-designed body storage racks should make thorough cleaning as straightforward as possible.
The best racks feature completely non-porous surfaces without hidden crevices where biological materials can accumulate. Removable trays allow for separate cleaning when needed, and fluid containment features prevent cross-contamination between storage positions.
"We recommend wiping down contact surfaces daily and doing a thorough sanitization of the entire rack weekly," advises our customer support team. "Pay special attention to roller mechanisms if your racks have them—they can collect biological materials that aren't immediately visible."
The stainless steel construction we use at American Mortuary Coolers stands up to harsh disinfectants without degradation. Whether you're using bleach solutions, quaternary ammonium compounds, or other mortuary-grade disinfectants, the material won't break down or lose its integrity over time.
For more detailed information about keeping your storage systems in top condition, check out our comprehensive guide to mortuary refrigeration and storage:
Selecting the Right Body Storage Rack for Your Facility
Choosing the perfect body storage rack for your facility isn't just about buying equipment—it's about finding a solution that honors the deceased while making your team's daily work safer and more efficient. Let's walk through what really matters when making this important decision.
Capacity Analysis and Space Planning
I've visited hundreds of facilities across the country, and the first question I always ask is simple: "What keeps you up at night about your current storage situation?"
Most folks tell me about their struggles with space constraints, workflow bottlenecks, or concerns about dignity and respectful handling. That's why we start with these essential questions:
- What's your current body count, and what do you expect in the next 3-5 years?
- How big is your cooler space—both the dimensions and any awkward corners?
- Do you have a high turnover of cases, or longer-term storage needs?
- What's the typical weight range you handle, including bariatric cases?
"We help facilities conduct a thorough capacity analysis before recommending specific rack configurations," explains our consultant from the Rocky Mountain Region. "A county morgue with high throughput has very different needs than a small funeral home with occasional storage requirements."
When planning your space, don't forget the practical details that make a big difference: you'll need at least 36" for aisles (trust me, anything less becomes a daily frustration), proper clearance for doors, and confirmation that your floors can handle the weight. I've seen too many facilities overlook ceiling height only to find their new racks won't fit!
Permanent vs Temporary Solutions
When it comes to body storage racks, you've got two main paths: permanent installations or flexible solutions. Both have their place depending on your needs.
Permanent racks become part of your facility's infrastructure. They're anchored to the floor, incredibly stable, and custom-fitted to your specific cooler dimensions. They're the workhorses that serve your facility day in and day out for decades.
On the flip side, temporary or mobile solutions offer flexibility that many facilities have come to appreciate, especially after recent experiences with unexpected case surges. These systems typically feature casters for easy movement and tool-less assembly that lets you reconfigure your space as needs change.
A hospital pathology department director in Arizona shared something that stuck with me: "We opted for a hybrid approach with permanent racks for our baseline capacity and portable units stored for emergency surge events. This flexibility proved invaluable during COVID-19 when our caseload tripled temporarily."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've found that many facilities benefit from this balanced approach—core permanent storage with flexible options in reserve for those unpredictable moments that every mortuary professional eventually faces.
Key Features Checklist
When I'm helping a facility choose their body storage racks, I encourage them to think beyond just "how many bodies can it hold?" The small details make a world of difference in daily operations.
The most important features to consider include adjustability for accommodating larger remains, mobility options when your workflow might change, and lift compatibility with your existing equipment. Don't overlook cleaning ease—those smooth, crevice-free surfaces will save countless hours of sanitization work.
Other critical elements include security features like straps to prevent accidental movement (a small detail until you need it!), leveling capability for those less-than-perfect floors we find in many facilities, and the right loading direction to match your space and workflow.
"The compatibility with our existing scissor lift was a critical factor in our decision," noted a funeral director from the Northeast Region. "The multi-directional roller rack integrates perfectly with our battery-powered lift, creating a seamless transfer system."
I always remind clients to think about tomorrow, not just today. Consider whether you need capacity expansion options and verify the material quality is appropriate for your specific environment—especially important in coastal areas where corrosion can be an issue.
Customization & Special Requirements
While standard body storage racks meet most needs, I've worked with plenty of facilities requiring something special. That's where customization comes in.
Some of the most common customizations include oversized or bariatric trays for larger individuals—an increasingly important consideration in modern facilities. Others need improved security improvements like locking mechanisms, or color-coding systems to visually distinguish different case types at a glance.
One medical examiner's office we worked with had a unique challenge with their identification system. "American Mortuary Coolers designed a custom rack with integrated barcode scanning stations at each tier, allowing us to track chain of custody throughout our process," they shared. "The attention to our specific needs made all the difference."
Our design team in Tennessee loves solving these puzzles. Whether it's custom heights for special equipment or integration features for proprietary systems, we believe every facility deserves a solution that feels made just for them—because it is.
The right rack system doesn't just store bodies; it supports your team's workflow, maintains dignity for the deceased, and brings peace of mind during difficult times. That's something worth getting right.
Installation, Maintenance & Compliance
Getting your body storage racks properly installed and maintained isn't just about following instructions – it's about ensuring safety, longevity, and showing respect for the deceased in your care. Let's walk through what this looks like in practice.
Installation Best Practices
When it comes to setting up your body storage racks, cutting corners simply isn't an option. Professional installation makes all the difference between a system that works flawlessly for years and one that causes headaches from day one.
Before the first component arrives, make sure your floors are completely level and clean. This might seem basic, but I've seen many facilities overlook this critical first step. Your floors need to support the full weight of loaded racks – which can be substantial when all positions are occupied.
For permanent installations, proper floor anchoring is non-negotiable. Our team at American Mortuary Coolers recommends specific anchors based on your facility's flooring type, whether concrete, tile, or other materials.
"We installed our racks ourselves initially to save money," shared a funeral director from Minneapolis. "Six months later, we had stability issues and ended up paying more for professionals to reinstall everything properly. Learn from our mistake!"
Most quality racks feature modular designs specifically to avoid on-site welding, which can compromise the protective finishes. Once assembled, take time to adjust those leveling feet – a perfectly level rack prevents unexpected movement of bodies and trays.
Ongoing Maintenance Requirements
Taking care of your body storage racks doesn't require complicated procedures, but it does demand consistency. Think of it as preventative care rather than waiting for something to break.
On a weekly basis, your staff should inspect all roller mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. This simple check can prevent transfer difficulties that might lead to staff injuries or disrespectful handling. Wipe down all surfaces with appropriate disinfectants, paying special attention to areas where fluids might collect.
Monthly, take time to lubricate those roller wheels according to what your manufacturer recommends. At American Mortuary Coolers, we provide specific guidance on which lubricants work best with our systems without compromising sanitation. This is also the perfect time to check all connection points and welds for any early signs of wear.
"We keep a maintenance calendar in our prep room," explains a morgue supervisor from Denver. "Every staff member knows what needs checking and when. This simple system has kept our racks functioning like new for over eight years."
Annually, schedule a more thorough structural inspection. Document everything for your records – not just because inspectors might ask, but because this history helps identify developing issues before they become serious problems.
Regulatory Compliance Considerations
Navigating the regulatory landscape might seem intimidating, but understanding the basics helps ensure your body storage racks meet all requirements.
OSHA has specific workplace safety standards that apply to mortuary equipment, focusing primarily on preventing staff injuries during body transfers. Local health codes vary significantly by jurisdiction, with some counties having detailed requirements about body storage surfaces and sanitization protocols.
Industry standards from organizations like ANSI and the Rack Manufacturers Institute provide additional guidance on safety factors and structural integrity. If your facility seeks accreditation from organizations like the College of American Pathologists, they'll have their own specific requirements about documentation and maintenance procedures.
A compliance officer I spoke with recently shared this perspective: "When inspectors visit, they're not just checking boxes. They're looking for evidence that you're treating the deceased with dignity through proper equipment and protocols. Well-maintained racks speak volumes about your facility's overall standards."
Best Practices for Long-Term Care
The difference between body storage racks that last five years versus twenty years often comes down to how you care for them day-to-day.
Staff training makes an enormous difference. Everyone who handles bodies should understand proper loading techniques and weight limits. I've seen racks damaged because someone didn't realize that placing multiple bodies on a single tray exceeded capacity limits.
Keep detailed maintenance logs – not just for inspectors, but for your own team. These records help identify recurring issues and provide continuity when staff changes occur. Consider keeping a small inventory of replacement parts for items that commonly need attention, like roller wheels or leveling feet.
Track your warranty information carefully. Quality manufacturers stand behind their products, but you need to know what's covered and for how long. At American Mortuary Coolers, we provide comprehensive warranty documentation and regular reminders about recommended service intervals.
"The key to longevity is addressing small issues before they become major problems," notes our service manager who has seen properly maintained stainless steel racks remain in excellent condition for up to two decades. "That squeak you're hearing? It's telling you something needs attention now, not later."
Pricing & Budget Factors
Let's talk money – because understanding what body storage racks cost helps you make smart decisions without unpleasant surprises down the road.
Price Range Overview
When I work with funeral homes and medical facilities, one of the first questions is always about price. Here's what you can generally expect to invest:
A basic cantilever rack starts around $950, making it the entry point for many smaller facilities. If you're looking at standard 3-tier roller systems, budget between $2,000-$4,000. For the more sophisticated multi-directional 4-tier systems, prices typically fall between $4,000-$6,000.
Of course, if you're outfitting a complete system with lifting equipment, those heavy-duty scissor lifts can range from $5,000 up to $15,000 depending on features and capacity.
One funeral director in Ohio told me, "I wish someone had given me a realistic budget range when we were planning our expansion. We ended up spending about $22,000 for our complete system, but it's been worth every penny for the efficiency gains."
Factors Affecting Cost
Not all body storage racks are created equal, and several factors influence what you'll ultimately pay:
Material choice makes a significant difference – that premium 18-gauge stainless steel costs more than aluminum or powder-coated alternatives, but it also lasts much longer. Tier count directly impacts price; each additional level adds materials and complexity but increases your capacity substantially.
The loading style you choose matters too. Those fancy multi-directional systems with roller mechanisms cost more than simpler end-loading options. If you need mobility features like casters for portable deployment, that adds to your investment.
When we built a custom solution for a medical examiner's office in Florida with oversized trays and special security features, they paid about 30% more than a standard configuration. But as their director noted, "Having equipment precisely matched to our workflow was worth the premium."
American-made products like ours typically cost more than imported options, but the quality difference is significant. As one customer put it, "You only want to buy this equipment once in your career."
Value Considerations
When evaluating your investment in body storage racks, think beyond the initial price tag:
A quality stainless steel rack system will typically serve your facility for 15+ years with minimal issues. Lower-quality options might save money upfront but often require replacement parts or complete replacement much sooner.
I've seen countless facilities regret choosing the cheapest option. A medical examiner in the Midwest shared, "We saved about $4,000 by going with an imported system, but after just four years of use, we're already replacing components. The American-made racks in our older cooler are still perfect after a decade."
The warranty matters too – our racks come with comprehensive coverage that protects your investment. And don't forget the space efficiency factor; paying a bit more for a system that doubles or triples your capacity per square foot improves your overall value significantly.
Perhaps most importantly, quality racks with proper lift integration dramatically reduce staff injury risks. One funeral home owner calculated that avoiding just one workplace injury claim more than offset the additional cost of their premium rack system.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we believe in transparent pricing. When we provide a quote, we break down all cost components so you understand exactly what you're paying for. We're happy to work with your budget constraints to find the right solution for your specific needs.
Integration With Other Mortuary Equipment
Body storage racks don't exist in isolation - they're part of a complete mortuary ecosystem. Getting the most from your rack system means ensuring it works harmoniously with your other equipment and facility layout.
Compatible Lift Systems
The days of staff manually lifting bodies onto storage racks are (thankfully) behind us. Today's modern lift systems not only protect your team from injury but also ensure dignified handling of the deceased.
The most common lift options that pair perfectly with body storage racks include:
Battery-powered scissor lifts have become the gold standard in many facilities. These versatile units provide precise height adjustment for each tier of your rack system. As one medical examiner from Chicago told us, "The battery-powered scissor lift has been a game-changer for our operation. It seamlessly integrates with our three-tier rack system, allowing a single staff member to safely transfer bodies to any level."
Hydraulic lifts offer reliable operation without battery concerns, making them ideal for facilities where consistent power might be an issue. Their smooth lifting action ensures gentle, controlled movement.
When you're selecting lift equipment to pair with your body storage racks, focus on compatibility with your specific rack configuration. The lift should reach every tier comfortably, handle your typical weight requirements with ease, and maneuver within your available space. A lift that can't quite reach your top tier defeats the purpose of having that extra capacity!
Cooler and Storage Environment Integration
Your refrigerated environment and body storage racks need to work together like dance partners - in perfect harmony. This partnership affects everything from cooling efficiency to staff comfort.
First, consider airflow. Your racks need proper spacing to allow cold air circulation around each body. Overcrowding your cooler with too many racks can create warm spots and uneven cooling, potentially compromising preservation.
"The rack configuration directly impacts cooling efficiency," explains our refrigeration specialist. "Proper spacing and alignment with air handling systems can reduce energy costs while maintaining consistent temperatures."
Condensation management is another critical factor. Quality stainless steel racks minimize moisture collection, but proper air circulation remains essential. The last thing you want is condensation dripping onto bodies or creating slippery floors for your staff.
Don't forget about door clearance! I've seen several installations where racks were positioned without considering the door swing, creating awkward access and potential safety issues. A well-designed layout accounts for door thresholds and swing paths to ensure smooth transfers in and out of the cooler.
Workflow and Facility Layout Considerations
The thoughtful arrangement of your body storage racks can dramatically impact your daily operations and staff efficiency.
Think about proximity - how far do bodies need to travel between receiving, storage, preparation, and viewing areas? Every unnecessary step adds time and increases the risk of accidents. Ideally, your cooler and rack system should be positioned to minimize transport distances while maintaining proper separation between different facility functions.
Consider your process flow. Does your layout create a logical progression from intake to final disposition? A funeral home director from Atlanta shared, "We worked with American Mortuary Coolers to completely redesign our workflow. The new arrangement with properly integrated racks and lifts has reduced our processing time by nearly 40%."
Staff movement patterns matter too. Watch how your team steers the space during daily operations. Are there bottlenecks? Cramped areas? Awkward transfers? Sometimes moving a rack just a few feet or changing its orientation can dramatically improve ergonomics and efficiency.
Finally, never compromise on emergency access. Every facility should maintain clear paths for urgent situations, regardless of how much you want to maximize storage capacity. Safety must always come first.
At American Mortuary Coolers, our design team specializes in comprehensive layout planning that considers your specific facility constraints and operational requirements. We believe the best systems are those that blend seamlessly into your existing workflow - or better yet, improve it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Body Storage Racks
How do body storage racks support infection control?
When it comes to infection control, body storage racks are much more than simple shelving systems. Their design plays a crucial role in maintaining sanitary conditions in any mortuary setting.
The non-porous stainless steel construction creates surfaces that bacteria simply can't penetrate. This isn't just a theoretical benefit—it's something our customers rely on daily. As one pathologist from Boston told me, "Being able to thoroughly disinfect our racks between cases has been absolutely essential, especially when handling high-risk cases."
Those marine edges you see on quality trays aren't just for appearance. They serve the vital function of containing bodily fluids that might otherwise cross-contaminate other remains or expose staff to potential hazards.
The construction details matter too. We're meticulous about creating smooth welds and minimizing crevices where contaminants could hide. It's these small design choices that make a big difference in real-world usage.
I've always found that the individual tray system provides another layer of protection. When needed, staff can completely remove trays for thorough cleaning and disinfection away from other remains.
And let's not forget about compatibility with disinfectants. The materials we use at American Mortuary Coolers stand up to hospital-grade cleaning products without degradation or corrosion—something that's absolutely non-negotiable in this industry.
What regulatory standards apply to body storage racks?
Navigating the regulatory landscape for body storage racks can feel a bit like tackling a maze, but understanding these standards is essential for facility compliance.
OSHA regulations set the foundation with workplace safety requirements covering everything from equipment stability to ergonomic considerations. These aren't optional suggestions—they're mandated protections for the people working with these systems daily.
Local health departments often have their own specific codes too. What's required in Florida might differ from regulations in Oregon, which is why we stay current on requirements across all states we serve.
"Compliance isn't just a box to check," our regulatory specialist often reminds clients. "It's about ensuring your facility meets all applicable standards, which can vary significantly depending on your location and facility type."
The Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) provides industry-specific guidelines, including the important 2-to-1 safety factor for load capacity. This means racks should safely hold twice their rated capacity—a critical safety margin when dealing with human remains.
ANSI standards guide our material selection and construction methods, while accreditation requirements from organizations like the College of American Pathologists (CAP) set specific standards for morgue equipment.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we design our products to meet the most stringent requirements nationwide, so you can feel confident regardless of where you're located.
Can racks be reconfigured after installation?
The question of reconfiguration is one I hear often, and the answer really depends on which body storage rack system you've chosen.
Fixed permanent racks offer the greatest stability but provide limited flexibility after installation. You might be able to adjust tier heights in some cases, but significant changes typically require professional assistance. These systems are ideal for facilities with well-established, consistent needs.
Modular systems strike a nice balance between permanence and flexibility. A hospital administrator in Dallas shared with me how valuable this proved for their facility: "We started with a three-tier system but found our needs growing. The modular design let us add a fourth tier and expand horizontally without replacing everything we'd already invested in."
These systems can be disassembled and reconfigured as needs change, though you might want some technical help for major modifications.
For maximum flexibility, our portable and temporary racks are designed specifically for easy reconfiguration. With tool-less assembly features, these systems can be completely repositioned or restructured quickly—perfect for facilities with changing needs or those requiring surge capacity.
I always recommend thinking about future growth during the initial design phase. At American Mortuary Coolers, we've helped many facilities develop solutions that accommodate anticipated changes, saving them considerable expense and hassle down the road.
Conclusion
When it comes to caring for the deceased with dignity while maximizing your facility's efficiency, body storage racks are truly at the heart of effective mortuary operations. Throughout this guide, we've explored how these specialized systems do far more than just store—they transform how we honor the dead and support the living who care for them.
I've seen how the right rack system can make all the difference in a busy medical examiner's office or a family-owned funeral home. One director in Tennessee told me, "The day we installed proper tiered storage was the day our staff stopped dreading body transfers. It's been better for everyone—including the families we serve."
The beauty of modern body storage rack solutions lies in their versatility:
Cantilever designs offer that crucial quick access during busy periods. Side and end-loading options let you make the most of whatever space constraints you're working with. Multi-directional systems bring unprecedented flexibility to your workflow. And those portable solutions? Absolute lifesavers during unexpected surge events.
Quality matters enormously in this field. That's why we stand behind 18-gauge stainless steel construction—it simply performs better in the demanding environment of mortuary operations. It resists corrosion, cleans thoroughly, and stands up to years of daily use. When you're handling someone's loved one, you need equipment you can trust completely.
Body storage racks don't exist in isolation. Their integration with your lift systems, cooling equipment, and overall facility workflow determines how smoothly your operation runs. One medical examiner put it perfectly: "Everything connects. When our racks, lifts and coolers work as one system, we can focus on the important parts of our work instead of fighting with equipment."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand the unique challenges you face. Our team spans the country—from our manufacturing center in Tennessee to our specialists in Georgia, Illinois, South Carolina, Texas, California, New York, Pennsylvania, and beyond. We're never far when you need support.
We take pride in crafting custom mortuary solutions that reflect your specific needs. No two facilities are identical, and your equipment shouldn't be either. Our American-made body storage racks are built with care and delivered directly to you across the contiguous 48 states.
Whether you're planning a facility renovation, upgrading outdated equipment, or preparing for emergency response capabilities, I'd love to have a conversation about how we can help. After all, this work matters—it's about creating an environment where the deceased are treated with respect and the living can work with dignity.