The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA) has issued a formal and forceful warning to mortuary facilities operating within the Volta Region, demanding immediate compliance with established standards and regulations. This comes after a three-day compliance exercise conducted at a selection of facilities across the region, a move instigated by Deputy Registrar of MoFFA, Dr Philip Sarpong, in an interview with Adom News Correspondent, Odehyeba Owusu Job. The exercise, designed to rigorously assess the operational status of these facilities, represents a significant escalation in MoFFA’s commitment to enforcing legal standards governing the handling of human remains. Dr Sarpong stated that the agency will not hesitate to impose substantial sanctions, including fines and potential legal repercussions, if facilities fail to adhere to these directives.
This action follows a series of concerns raised by MoFFA regarding a growing number of mortuary facilities lacking basic operational protocols. The agency’s mandate, as defined by the law, is to maintain a safe and regulated environment for the handling and disposition of human remains, and non-compliance constitutes a serious breach of this obligation. The exercise itself involved a thorough review of operational procedures, safety measures, and quality control protocols across a diverse range of facilities, according to Dr Sarpong. He emphasized that the agency’s objective is not merely to identify shortcomings but to provide clear guidance and practical steps for improvement.
The exercise was undertaken with the explicit goal of collaborating with operators to enhance their safety and operational efficiency. Specifically, MoFFA is requesting that all facilities implement standardized procedures for waste management, infection control, and the meticulous documentation of mortality records. Dr Sarpong stressed the critical importance of safeguarding the integrity of the remains and the dignity of the deceased. He underscored the agency’s condemnation of practices that could disrespect the remains, particularly during burial ceremonies, and urged all individuals involved – from funeral handlers to youth – to demonstrate utmost respect and reverence.
Furthermore, the agency has expressed concern over the potential for maltreatment of corpses during funeral arrangements. The agency has issued a clear directive to ensure that all personnel involved in handling remains adhere to strict ethical guidelines and respect the rights of the deceased. It’s a firm stance against any form of cruelty or disregard for the human body. The head of administration at the Adidome Government Hospital, Samuel Adjei, offered his support to the MoFFA team, stating that he appreciates the agency’s efforts to provide professional guidance and mentorship to the facilities. He acknowledged that management would take the agency’s recommendations seriously and actively implement corrective actions.
The three-day compliance exercise represents a crucial component of MoFFA’s ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity of the mortuary sector and protect public health. The agency plans to conduct similar exercises across the country, monitoring the operational status of all mortuary facilities and ensuring full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. It’s anticipated that this proactive approach will contribute significantly to safeguarding public trust and maintaining the stability of the funerary industry. The agency’s commitment to rigorous oversight and enforcement underscores its dedication to upholding the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in the handling of human remains. The exercise’s effectiveness will be closely monitored as it continues to evolve and refine its approach to regulatory oversight.
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Source: Adom Online
