What is one of the requirements for employees handling human remains?

Practicing universal precautions is a critical requirement for employees handling human remains due to the potential exposure to pathogens and infectious materials. Universal precautions are a set of practices designed to prevent transmission of bloodborne pathogens and other infectious agents. This approach assumes that all human remains and bodily fluids are potentially infectious, thus it emphasizes the importance of treating them with the highest level of care and infection control.

By adhering to universal precautions, employees are equipped to protect not only themselves but also others in the workplace from health risks associated with handling human remains. This includes the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns, as well as proper waste disposal methods. These practices are fundamental in ensuring a safe working environment in the mortuary and cemetery settings.

Other options, while beneficial in various contexts, do not encompass the comprehensive safety protocols that universal precautions provide. For example, wearing gloves is essential, but it is just one aspect of the broader universal precautions. Similarly, while having certified training is valuable for ensuring knowledge and skills, the consistent application of universal precautions is paramount for safety in all scenarios involving human remains.