A global pandemic can place extraordinary strain on health care resources, and where widespread fatalities occur, this can have concomitant effects for the death care sector. Uncertainties can arise, particularly for a novel pathogen, on likely routes of transmission, viability of the pathogen in different settings, and appropriate measures required to minimize risks to those working in the death care sector or family members and others who come into contact with the deceased. This paper provides an overview of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 and what is known about the relative risks of transmission across various stages of the death care process from the point of death through to cremation or burial. A review of guidance across various public health agencies is summarized, highlighting the key precautions and risk reducing measures, as well as considerations for associated risks such as shortages of supplies, personnel, or storage space.