How long must a crematory owner maintain records of maintenance performed on the retort?

The requirement for maintaining records of maintenance performed on the retort for a crematory owner is set at a minimum of three years. Keeping these records for this duration serves several critical purposes: it ensures compliance with regulations, provides a historical account of equipment status and service history, and can be crucial in case of any liabilities or inspections that may arise in the future. Proper documentation helps verify that the essential maintenance and checks are consistently conducted, which is vital for the safety and efficiency of the crematory operations.

Maintaining records for a shorter time frame, such as one year, would not be sufficient to demonstrate ongoing compliance or readiness for inspections. Similarly, keeping records until the next maintenance schedule does not provide a reliable historical context for the equipment's operational history, especially in case an issue arises after maintenance has been performed. Therefore, three years is the appropriate period that balances regulatory requirements and practical operational needs within the crematory field.