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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. Coffins and Caskets Traditional Choices

6. Coffins and Caskets Alternative Choices

7. This is how most of us take delivery of our coffins

8. This is how we want to provide them for clients

9. 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.

10. Finishing, Fittings & Furniture

11. 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)

12. 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’?

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

14. Children’s Coffins and Caskets

15. 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)

16. 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

17. 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

18. Workshop Safety and Good Housekeeping

19. 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

20. Any questions?