WHO Technical Note No. 8: Disposal of dead bodies in emergency conditions

Dealing with the dead is one of the most difficult aspects of a disaster reponse. This is not so much due to health-related risks, which tend to be negligible, but to the psychological, social and political impact of the trauma. This technical note outlines the health implications of dealing with mass fatalities and priority actions that need to be considered when planning for the collection and disposal of the dead.

This is one of a series of four-page highly illustrated notes prepared by WEDC for the World Health Organization (WHO) to assist those working immediately or shortly after an emergency to plan appropriate responses to the urgent and medium-term water and sanitation needs of affected populations.

The notes are relevant to a wide range of emergency situations, including both natural and conflict-induced disasters. They are suitable for field technicians, engineers and hygiene promoters, as well as staff from agency headquarters.

Prepared for WHO by WEDC. Authors: Julie Fisher and Bob Reed. Series Editor: Bob Reed. Editorial contributions, design and illustrations by Rod Shaw Line illustrations courtesy of WEDC / IFRC. Additional graphics by Ken Chatterton.

© World Health Organization 2013. All rights reserved.