Mortuary Facilities at the University Hospital of Wales

Human Tissue Authority media statement For immediate release.

Issue date: 18 August 2009

Dr Sandy Mather, Director of Regulation at the Human Tissue Authority, said:

"The HTA carried out an inspection of post-mortem facilities at University Hospital Wales in Cardiff on 30 July 2009. The inspection showed poor compliance with HTA standards giving rise to serious concerns about practices and procedures relating to post-mortem examination. We therefore took the decision to suspend two HTA licences. This means that post-mortem examinations cannot take place at the hospital mortuary at present.

"The notice of suspension was issued on 13 August and came into effect immediately. We have been in dialogue with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff at the Hospital since the inspection and we are confident they understand the serious nature of this action.

"The HTA is an independent regulator that works with organisations to help them comply with our standards. However, where there is serious non-compliance with our standards we must take the appropriate regulatory action. We do not take regulatory action of this seriousness lightly, but feel, in this case, action is in the public interest.

"Our inspections focus on mortuaries and the systems that are in place to ensure post-mortem examinations take place in suitable facilities by trained staff working to stringent procedures. This regulation is needed to protect the interests of the public and professionals; and helps maintain their confidence.

"The nature of mortuary work means that should something go wrong, it has the potential to cause significant distress to those involved; it is therefore essential that establishments comply with HTA regulatory requirements."

ENDS

For further information, please contact Claire Bithell, Senior Media Advisor at the Human Tissue Authority on 0207 211 3439 or claire.bithell@hta.gov.uk

Notes to editors

1. The Human Tissue Authority (HTA) is an independent watchdog that protects public confidence by licensing and inspecting organisations that store and use tissue for purposes such as research, patient treatment, post-mortem examination, teaching, and public exhibitions. We also give approval for organ and bone marrow transplants from living people through an independent assessment process.
2. The HTA provides advice and guidance about two laws: the Human Tissue Act (HT Act) and the Quality and Safety Regulations. These laws ensure human tissue is used safely and ethically, with proper consent. The HT Act applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
3. The HTA produces codes of practice that give professionals practical guidance on human tissue legislation. The HTA has codes of practice on Post-mortem examination, Removal, storage and disposal of human organs and tissue, and Consent.
4. More information about the HTA can be found on our website.