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Morgue Cooler Requirements in Washington State: What You Need to Know

When operating a morgue, funeral home, or medical examiner’s office in Washington State, ensuring proper storage for the deceased is not just a practical necessity—it’s a legal and ethical obligation. Morgue coolers are essential for preserving bodies, maintaining dignity, and meeting state regulations. At American Mortuary Coolers, we specialize in providing high-quality, American-made refrigeration solutions tailored to the unique needs of facilities across Washington, from Seattle to Spokane. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key morgue cooler requirements in Washington State and how our products at mymortuarycooler.com can help you stay compliant and efficient. Washington State Regulations for Morgue Coolers In Washington State, the handling and storage of human remains are governed by the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), specifically under Title 246, which addresses health and sanitation standards. While the WAC doesn’t prescribe exact cooler specifications, it mandates that facilities like funeral homes, crematories, and morgues maintain a sanitary environment and prevent decomposition during storage. This implicitly requires refrigeration capable of keeping bodies at a consistent temperature—typically between 35°F and 40°F—to slow decomposition effectively. For funeral establishments, WAC 246-835-020 requires a preparation room with adequate refrigeration if embalming isn’t performed immediately. Similarly, medical examiners and coroners handling higher volumes—such as those in King County or Pierce County—must ensure sufficient capacity and reliable cooling to manage caseloads, especially during surges like those seen in past public health crises. While the state doesn’t dictate cooler size or type, the capacity must align with your facility’s operational needs, and the equipment must meet health and safety standards. Key Features of a Compliant Morgue Cooler To meet Washington’s requirements and ensure operational success, morgue coolers need specific features. Here’s what to consider: Temperature Control: Morgue coolers must maintain a stable temperature range of 35°F to 40°F. At American Mortuary Coolers, our units—like the 10x10 Walk-In Mortuary Cooler—use reliable, American-made compressors with digital thermometers and adjustable controllers to guarantee precision. Sanitation and Durability: The WAC emphasizes sanitation, so coolers should have seamless interiors and materials resistant to bacteria growth. Our products feature Acrylume/Embossed 26-gauge panels and 3.5-inch UL Listed Class 1 insulation, ensuring both durability and easy cleaning. Capacity: Whether you’re a small funeral home in Port Angeles or a busy coroner’s office in Tacoma, capacity matters. Washington facilities must assess annual caseloads to determine the right size. Our capacity calculator on our website helps you choose from upright coolers (e.g., our Premium 3-Body Roll-In) to walk-ins that store up to 20 bodies with tiered racks. Accessibility and Installation: Space constraints in urban areas like Seattle or rural settings like Okanogan County require flexible designs. Our coolers offer customizable door placements and compact options, with clear installation guidelines—though a licensed installer is required per industry standards. Energy Efficiency: With Washington’s focus on sustainability, energy-efficient coolers reduce operational costs. Our units are designed to perform in ambient temperatures up to 95°F, with optional upsized compressors for hotter conditions, ensuring compliance without excessive energy use. Why Choose American Mortuary Coolers in Washington? At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand the diverse needs of Washington State’s death care professionals. Whether you’re equipping a facility for the Washington State Medical Examiners, a local coroner’s office, or a funeral home in Olympia, we’ve got you covered. Here’s why we’re the preferred choice: Quick Shipping Across Washington: From Spokane to Vancouver, our logistics ensure fast delivery, critical for urgent needs like FEMA temporary coolers or surge preparedness. Custom Solutions: Need a cooler tailored to your space? Visit our Custom Cooler Quote page to specify dimensions, door configurations, and upgrades. Trusted Quality: Our 100% American-made coolers undergo rigorous testing, offering peace of mind with features like heavy-duty racks and long-lasting warranties. Support and Resources: We provide live chat, a toll-free line (1-888-792-9315), and a resources page at mymortuarycooler.com to guide you through selection and installation. Practical Steps for Compliance To get started, measure your space—accounting for cooler dimensions and door swing—and use our capacity calculator to match your caseload. For a small funeral home handling 50 cases annually, a 3-body upright cooler might suffice. For larger facilities like the Clark County Coroner’s Office, a walk-in with cantilever racks could be ideal. Then, explore our range at mymortuarycooler.com, from portable units to large-scale solutions, and customize as needed. Final Thoughts Morgue coolers are more than equipment—they’re a commitment to dignity and compliance in Washington State’s death care industry. At American Mortuary Coolers, we’re proud to support facilities statewide with reliable, regulation-ready solutions. Whether you’re upgrading for routine operations or preparing for the unexpected, visit mymortuarycooler.com today to find the perfect cooler for your needs. Let us help you honor every life with the care it deserves. Note: This post is based on general interpretations of Washington State regulations as of February 28, 2025. For specific compliance questions, consult local authorities or a legal expert.