Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 511-2-6-.01 - Handling of Infected Human Remains When Death Occurs in a Hospital or Medical Facility

(1) This Chapter 511-2-6 shall govern the handling and disposal of human remains which are infected with a dangerous virus. The term "dangerous virus" includes Alkhurma, Chapare, Ebola, Marburg, or any other virus specifically designated as dangerous by the State Health Officer.

(2) The term "disinfect" as used in this Chapter shall mean to clean thoroughly with an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant with a label claim for one of the non-enveloped viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, or poliovirus) or, if that is not available, a solution of one part household bleach to nine parts water.

(3) The body shall be prepared for transport at the site of death by persons trained in the safe handling of infected articles and human remains, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.

(4) After identification of the body and collection of information necessary to complete the death certificate, the body shall be prepared as follows:

(a) Any medical tubing, intravenous needles, or other devices inserted into the body during treatment shall be left in place.

(b) The body shall be placed into a leakproof body bag of at least 150 microns thickness. If the bag is not designed to be sealed through the use of adhesives, then a durable tape shall be used to securely cover the zipper. The outside of the bag shall be disinfected immediately.

(c) The body shall next be placed into a second leakproof body bag of at least 150 microns thickness. If the bag is not designed to be sealed through the use of adhesives, then a durable tape shall be used to securely cover the zipper. The outside of the bag shall be disinfected immediately.

(d) The body shall then be placed into a zipperless body bag of aluminum-impregnated material, such as the BioSeal System 5 or equivalent, which is designed to be hermetically sealed through heat-welding. The outside of the bag shall be disinfected immediately.

(e) The double-bagged body shall then be placed in a transport container suitable for cremation or a hermetically metal casket of no less than 20-gauge metal. The placement shall occur immediately outside the site of death and the casket taken directly to the transport vehicle.

(f) The transport vehicle shall take the body directly to the crematorium or burial site.

Notes

Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 511-2-6-.01

O.C.G.A. §§ 31-2A-4(2), 31-2A-6.

Original Rule entitled "Handling of Infected Human Remains When Death Occurs in a Hospital or Medical Facility" adopted. F. Feb. 16, 2016; eff. Mar. 7, 2016.