Requirements for the facilities and operation of mortuaries (Third Edition 2013)

This document was published by the National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) whilst under the governance of the Department of Health and Aged Care. From 1 July 2021, the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) assumed responsibility for coordinating the National Pathology Accreditation (NPA) Scheme and supporting the development of the pathology accreditation standards.

Requirements for the facilities and operation of mortuaries (Third Edition 2013) is currently in use.

The Commission is undergoing a review process for each of the pathology standards. To remain up to date on upcoming consultations and to provide input, please visit the pathology accreditation standards and sign up now for ongoing updates.

For enquiries about the NPA Scheme or the resources, email pathology@safetyandquality.gov.au.

This document provides guidelines for pathologists, mortuary staff and hospital and health administrators on recommended standards for mortuary facilities in hospitals and forensic settings and for communication between staff involved in autopsy procedures or autopsy-related processes and the relatives of deceased persons and other appropriate persons.

The Requirements for the Facilities and Operation of Mortuaries outlines the minimum best practice for mortuaries, including design, construction and provision of services.

This document must be read in conjunction with the Tier 2 document - Requirements for Medical Pathology Services.