A morgue, or mortuary, is a facility dedicated to the temporary storage of deceased persons awaiting identification, autopsy, or final disposition like burial or cremation. Since biological processes continue immediately after death, a specialized environment is required to delay decomposition. This preservation is accomplished using purpose-built, temperature-controlled equipment designed specifically for human remains. These storage units are a foundational component of forensic and hospital pathology departments.
The Correct Terminology
The sliding compartments commonly referred to as “drawers” in media are known by several more accurate, professional terms within the medical and mortuary industries. These refrigerated compartments are often called mortuary cabinets, mortuary refrigeration units, or cadaver storage units. Body coolers or mortuary cold chambers are also used, particularly in settings handling a high volume of cases.
The actual component that slides out, upon which the body rests, is specifically called the body tray or cadaver tray. This tray is the removable part of the storage unit, designed for safe transfer of the deceased.
Design and Capacity of Refrigeration Units
These specialized units are constructed with hygiene and durability in mind, typically featuring interior and exterior panels made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is preferred because it is non-corrosive, easy to clean, and resists the growth of bacteria. The design of the body tray includes smooth edges and sometimes a slight marine lip to contain any fluids, maintaining a sanitary environment.
The body trays glide on heavy-duty rollers, allowing for easy and stable access to the deceased. Each tray is engineered to support a significant weight, with many standard models rated to handle up to 375 pounds. Storage units are frequently configured in modular, stackable arrangements, often two to three bays wide and three tiers high, to maximize floor space. A dedicated refrigeration system maintains a consistent internal temperature within the sealed compartment for preservation.
Operational Cooling Categories
Body storage units operate within two primary temperature ranges, defined by the intended duration of storage.
Positive Temperature Cooling (Cooler)
The most common is positive temperature cooling, often called a cooler, where the temperature is maintained between 2°C and 6°C (36°F to 43°F). This chilling temperature significantly slows decomposition without causing tissue damage from freezing. This setting is suitable for short-term holding before an autopsy or funeral.
Negative Temperature Cooling (Freezer)
The second category is negative temperature cooling, known as a freezer, which operates at much lower temperatures, typically between -10°C and -50°C (14°F to -58°F). Freezing the remains is reserved for long-term storage, such as in specialized forensic institutes where identification is delayed or in complex cases requiring preservation over many months. The choice between a cooler and a freezer depends on the required preservation time and the medical or legal requirements of the case.