Building or upgrading a morgue or autopsy room? Use this equipment list to ensure nothing is missed.

Core Autopsy Room Equipment

Autopsy Table(s) — standard, covered, or ventilated table(s) based on case volume. Qty: 1-3. Cold Storage — body cooler or vault for holding pending autopsy. Qty: 1. Mobile Body Cart — for transporting bodies from cooler to autopsy table. Qty: 1-2. Specimen Sink — stainless sink for cleaning specimens and instruments. Qty: 1. Instrument Trolley — stainless cart for autopsy instruments, blades, containers. Qty: 1. Step Stool — non-slip, stainless frame for reaching elevated areas of the table. Qty: 1-2. Scale — floor scale for weighing bodies and organs. Qty: 1. Lighting — overhead surgical lights or task lights over the autopsy table. Qty: 2-4. Sharps Disposal — OSHA-compliant sharps containers and biohazard waste bins. Qty: 2-3.

Facility Planning

Ventilation: Dedicated exhaust for chemical fumes and biohazard control; confirm ACH per OSHA standards. Drainage: Floor drain or sump for washdown; slope toward drain. Power: Electrical outlets for lighting, cooler, and any powered equipment. Handwashing: Separate sink for staff handwashing. Storage: Secure cabinet for deceased personal effects; locked storage for pharmaceuticals and hazardous materials.

USPE Morgue Equipment

Autopsy Tables • Body Coolers & Vault Systems • Morgue Carts & Transport • Best Autopsy Tables for MEs