What information must a crematory collect before accepting a body for cremation?

Before accepting a body for cremation, a crematory is required to collect key identifying information about the deceased. This includes the name of the deceased and the place of death. Collecting the name ensures that there is a clear identification of the individual being cremated, which is crucial for record-keeping, legal compliance, and the respectful handling of remains. The place of death informs the crematory about potential jurisdictional regulations that may be applicable, such as local laws governing the disposition of human remains.

The other options, while possibly relevant in specific contexts, are not essential requirements for the acceptance of a body for cremation. For example, while the social security number can be important for administrative purposes, it is not universally required prior to cremation. Similarly, medical history might be collected for reasons related to health and safety, but it is not mandated before the acceptance of the body. The residence might provide additional context or aid in administrative functions but does not carry the same urgency in the face of immediate cremation protocols. Thus, the requirement to gather the name and place of death stands out as a fundamental responsibility in the cremation acceptance process.