Coffins, Caskets & Measuring Finishing, Fittings & Furniture Funeral Operative Unit OP2

Learning Outcome: The learner is able to: Describe the Coffin and Casket Range of their company Understand the environmental issues surrounding burial and cremation Prepare the coffin or casket Prepare a container for the interment of cremated remains

Measuring Length of body Width of Body from mid instep to top of head Width of Body widest point – usually shoulders but may be elbows or hips Hospital Measurements are always best DOUBLE CHECKED

Measuring Coffin size given by coffin manufacturer is the inside dimension. Coffin size given to gravedigger should be outside dimensions including fittings. This may be 3-4 inches more than the inside dimensions, even more for a casket. Gravediggers should be told whether a coffin or casket is being used.

Coffins and Caskets Traditional Choices

Coffins and Caskets Alternative Choices

This is how most of us take delivery of our coffins

This is how we want to provide them for clients

The Coffin & Casket Range What you should know: What coffins and caskets are in your firms range. What furniture is appropriate to each. The correct handles, wreath holders etc. for each coffin or casket. When to use other ornaments such as a crucifix or masonic symbol.

Finishing, Fittings & Furniture

Evidence required for portfolio Provide a list of the coffins and caskets in the firm’s range Provide a list of the furniture and fittings appropriate to each Describe the appropriate use of other coffin ornaments or furniture Suggested forms of evidence Brochures (must be annotated) Written evidence Photographs (with descriptions)

Linings What types of lining are available? What types of lining are acceptable for cremation? What restrictions are there? What types of lining are acceptable for a green funeral? What is the purpose of a waterproof coffin lining? Why do we add a ‘pillow’?

Dealing with the specialised Preparing coffins and caskets for sending overseas IATA/Embassy regulations Repatriation Coffins Zinc Lined

Children’s Coffins and Caskets

Evidence required for portfolio Describe the types of coffin, furnishings and linings allowed for cremation Explain the restrictions regarding materials and objects allowed to be cremated Explain what types of coffins/caskets and linings are suitable for a ‘green funeral’ Suggested forms of evidence Written evidence Brochures (annotated) Photographs (with descriptions)

Stock Control Systems How does your company keep track of stock? Who do you report shortages to? Who re-orders stock? How do you arrange to receive deliveries? Special orders – non ‘stock’ items

Workshop Safety and Good Housekeeping Take care of power tools Check electrical wires and connections Put things away in the proper place Take care of trailing wires Look for hazards

Workshop Safety and Good Housekeeping

Evidence required for portfolio Follow company H&S procedures to ensure good housekeeping and safety measures within the coffin preparation area Line and finish coffin interior Attach coffin furniture and ornaments Prepare and attached nameplate (where prepared in house) Prepare cremated remains container or casket and attach name plate Transfer cremated remains to container or casket Suggested forms of evidence Witness testimonies Photos (with descriptions) Observation (signed by observer and student) Personal statement (signed by manager) Log or journal

Any questions?