Within how many hours from the time of death must a body be embalmed or refrigerated?

In Ohio, the legal requirement mandates that a dead body must be embalmed or refrigerated within 48 hours from the time of death. This time frame is established to ensure the preservation of the body and to prevent decomposition, which can begin shortly after death. Embalming involves the chemical treatment of the body, while refrigeration slows down the decomposition process by maintaining a lower temperature.

Understanding this timeframe is crucial for funeral directors and embalmers as they must adhere to these protocols to comply with state laws and ethical standards in the care of the deceased. It also emphasizes the importance of timely intervention in the preparation of the body for viewing or burial, as well as in maintaining public health standards.