National Board Of Examination (NBE) Arts Practice Exam

What is true regarding the schedule of cremation?

1. The smallest decedents are always cremated first

2. The largest decedents are always cremated first

3. Any decedents over 300 lbs. must be cremated last

4. It makes no difference in which order the bodies are cremated

The correct answer is: The largest decedents are always cremated first

The understanding that the largest decedents are always cremated first is based on the operational procedures within cremation facilities, which often have specific protocols for handling remains effectively. Larger bodies may require more time and careful management during the cremation process due to the increased volume and density of tissue, which may affect how the process is managed. Cremation facilities prioritize efficient use of the crematory resources, which includes airflow and combustion efficiency. Larger decedents may also produce more ash and require considerations for how they are treated in terms of time and space in the cremation chamber. The order of cremation is typically designed to maximize the facility's operational efficiency, ensuring that larger decedents can be cremated in a way that is safe and minimizes any potential impact on the cremation environment. The other options do not accurately reflect common practices in the cremation process. For example, while it may seem intuitive that smaller decedents would be cremated first, this is not a standardized practice and can vary by facility. The idea that decedents over a certain weight must be cremated last does not align with operational priorities either, as it could cause delays and inefficiencies. Lastly, stating that it makes no difference in which order the