SECTION 50:10-1-5. Cremation and disposition

(a)   Following research, educational, or surgical studies, all anatomical specimens shall be cremated in facilities and methods approved by the Board. The cremains shall be interred or scattered in a manner approved by the Board.

(b)   Cremains may be returned to next of kin for private disposition if so requested in writing at the time of body donation or prior to cremation. Disposition of cremains is determined by the donor on the donation form unless the next of kin requests a change in disposition. Priority to change disposition is given first to the spouse, then as follows: the adult children, either parent, an adult brother or sister. All individuals of a class must agree with the change in disposition.

(c)   In no event may cremated remains be disposed in or as general institutional wastes.

(d)   Cremation. Cremation shall occur at a professional crematorium or at the Board-member institution in its own crematory.

(1)   Cremation at a professional crematorium. If a professional crematorium is utilized, the crematory must be licensed by the Oklahoma Funeral Board or relevant state licensing board.

(2)   Cremation at a Board-member institution. An institution may operate its own crematory. The crematory shall be under the direct control of the Department of Anatomy or the institution's department to which the anatomical program is attached and may be used for no purpose other than the cremation of human remains.

(e)   Return of Cremated Remains. If cremated remains are to be returned to family members, the crematory must be completely cleaned before cremation, and the body must be cremated alone.

[Source: Amended at 17 Ok Reg 2275, eff 6-26-00; Amended at 31 Ok Reg 783, eff 9-12-14]