Atch 1 - Statement of Work (SOW).pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK

FOR MORTUARY SERVICES

TO SUPPORT

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, SOUTH DAKOTA

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Specific Contractor Tasks………………………………

- Mortuary Services (Armed Services Specification) …….

- Treatment of Remains……………………………………

- Preparation of Remains………………………………….

- Embalmer Evaluation…………………………………

- Placement in Casket……………………………………...

- Quality Assurance Evaluation…………………………...

- Loading Remains………………………………………...

- Transportation of Remains………………………………

- Cremation……………………………………………….

- Hygienic Practices………………………………………

- Preparation of DD Form 2063, Record of Preparation and. Disposition of Remains……………………………….

- Facilities, Vehicles, and Personnel………………………

- Pre-award Survey for Mortuary Services……………… Government Furnished Items…………………………….

Contractor Furnished Items……………………………… Armed Services Specifications…………………………...

- Metal Caskets…………………………………………...

- Hardwood Caskets………………………………………

- Solid Hardwood Urns……………………………………

- Solid Bronze Urns……………………………………….

- Infant and Child Caskets and Shipping Cases…………...

Terms and Definitions……………………………………

- Acronyms……………………………………………….

Pre Award Survey Plan…………………………………...

1.

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.10

1.11 1.12 1.13 2.

3.

4.

4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.7 A1.

A2.

B1.

1. Description of Services.

The 28th Contracting Squadron is acquiring mortuary services for Ellsworth AFB for handling the remains of deceased military personnel. It is the policy of the Air Force to award contracts to fully qualified professional funeral directors. The contractor shall provide facilities, equipment, licensed personnel, motor vehicles, and furnish professional services and requirements, supplies, fifteen death certificates, caskets, urns, outer shipping containers, transportation, and perform hygienic practices as specified in this Performance Work Statement. The contractor will work within their licensing authority or within this Performance Work Statement, whichever is more stringent. The contractor shall comply with all federal, state, and local licensing and health requirements and regulatory standards in the following areas of performance.

1.1. Mortuary Services. The contractor shall be responsible for providing professional services of the highest quality to ensure viewing of the remains under optimal conditions.

1.1.1. The contractor shall practice hygienic measures that will ensure complete and satisfactory disinfection and sanitation of the funeral establishment.

1.1.2. The contractor shall provide high quality service and a sufficient number of licensed embalmers to process (embalm) or reprocess any remains under this contract on a timely basis.

Interns (apprentices) may be used to assist the licensed embalmer in accordance with applicable state regulations. Licensed medical personnel may be authorized by management to be present during preparation.

1.1.3. Only the licensed embalmer may apply or inject an embalming chemical solution in the following situations: vascular embalming, cavity embalming, hypodermic embalming, and surface embalming, cleaning, dissection, and treatment of viscera. A licensed embalmer is also required when performing restorative arts for areas that are visible outside the decedent’s uniform or clothing (head, neck, and hands). The licensed embalmer will also perform all tasks to temporarily preserve and sanitize the deceased and to restore the remains to an acceptable physical appearance. A licensed embalmer is required to complete all tasks associated with performing a head wrap.

1.1.4. All supplies and technical procedures shall conform to standards and professional techniques acceptable to the Funeral Service Industry to ensure complete and adequate treatment of remains. The contractor will initiate services not later than 24 hours after receiving remains.

1.1.5. Unidentified Remains. If identification of remains is not officially established, the remains shall be placed under refrigeration at 38-40 degrees F (3.3-4.4 degrees C). If mechanical refrigeration is not available within a reasonable distance, ice chests or ice packs shall be used in lieu of mechanical refrigeration. Processing (embalming) shall not be accomplished until the remains are released by a responsible official as identified.

1.1.6. Restorative Art. Major restorative art is an integral part of the processing and/or reprocessing of remains. It shall include, but not be limited to, rebuilding a large wound area;

rebuilding facial features such as ear, nose, eye, mouth, chin, etc.; removal of damaged tissue followed by restoration; restoration of scalp hair; and the application of cosmetics to render restored surfaces non-detectable. Restorative art shall be accomplished in accordance with the highest professional standards.

1.1.7. Death Certificates. The contractor shall provide fifteen (15) certified copies of the final Death Certificate to the mortuary officer within 10 business days of issuance. In the event that a supplemental or amended death certificate is issued, the contractor shall provide 10 copies to the mortuary officer within 10 days of issuance.

1.2. Treatment of Remains. Human remains prepared at a contracted facility may not receive final disposition for an extended period (10 days or more) and may have been subjected to extreme trauma, weather conditions, or have been transported over long distances. Therefore, all remains, whether viewable or nonviewable, require variations in preservation techniques and procedures to accomplish maximum disinfection, preservation, and restoration of all body tissues. The following procedures will be accomplished in the course of processing or reprocessing all viewable remains, and to the extent possible for nonviewable remains.

1.2.1. Pre-embalming procedures. The following basic steps shall be accomplished in the course of processing or reprocessing all viewable remains, and to the extent possible, nonviewable remains.

1.2.1.1. When possible, remains shall be bathed. Male facial and scalp hair shall be washed and groomed to conform to military standards (suitable hair preparation shall be accomplished on females). Fingernails shall be cleaned and trimmed. The mouth shall be securely closed to form a natural expression and proper attention given to the eyes to prevent wrinkling of the eyelids and a sunken appearance of the eyes. Cosmetics shall be applied only in the amount necessary to produce natural color and texture.

1.2.1.2. All lacerations, abrasions, incisions, excisions and burn wounds shall be sutured and/or sealed to prevent leakage. Swollen or distorted features shall be reduced to the normal contours enjoyed during life. Postmortem stains shall be chemically bleached by applying packs and/or needle injection. On viewable areas, further treatment shall consist of the use of masking cosmetics to render stains non-detectable.

1.2.1.3. All body orifices shall be treated with a disinfectant, non-astringent chemical (generic categories such as Phenylphenols and Idophors) and then packed with cotton. Bedsores, ulcerated, burned, and necrotic tissue shall be treated either by hypodermic injection, or pack application of deodorizing/preserving chemical.

1.2.1.4. Maggots and other insect larvae shall be destroyed and their breeding sites in or on the remains thoroughly treated with an insecticide chemical.

1.2.1.5. The contractor's performance shall be such that all remains are effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved, and all offensive odors eliminated before the remains are casketed.

1.3. Preparation of Remains. The military services require that all remains be processed or reprocessed in a manner reflecting the highest standards of the funeral service profession. Each remains, viewable and nonviewable, requires variation in the embalming treatment to accomplish the optimum results. A recommended procedure to achieve these goals is the injection of the solution at a moderate rate. The addition of a humectant to the solutions is also helpful in reducing over-dehydration effects.

1.3.1. Processing Nonviewable Remains. In all instances multisite injection and drainage techniques shall be attempted.

1.3.1.1. Each gallon of arterial fluid shall contain a minimum 10 percent concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s).

1.3.1.2. The total volume of arterial solution injected shall be not less than 1 gallon per 50 pounds of body weight.

1.3.1.3. All body areas shall be further treated utilizing a hypodermic injection, using undiluted cavity chemicals having a 36-index (%) or greater. In addition, packs, special gels and/or dry sanitizers shall be used, as required, to ensure preservation, prevent leakage, and eliminate all offensive odors.

1.3.1.4. The thoracic, abdominal, male genitals, and cranial cavities shall be thoroughly aspirated and injected with full-strength cavity chemicals having a 36-index (percent) or greater concentration. A minimum of 16 ounces of cavity chemical must be injected into the thoracic cavity, a minimum of 16 ounces in the abdominal cavity and male genitals, and a minimum of 2 ounces of cavity chemical in the cranial cavity to ensure the preservation of contents of the cranial cavity.

1.3.1.5. When arterial injection and/or cavity treatment is not possible, all articulated and disarticulated anatomical portions shall be thoroughly disinfected and preserved via accessory chemical embalming techniques.

1.3.1.6. Noninjectable intact remains and/or disarticulated anatomical portions shall be immersed or hypo-injected using full strength cavity chemicals 36-index (%) or greater. Surface application of liquid, gel, or dry sanitizers and preservatives is also required to supplement injection techniques.

1.3.2. Processing Viewable Remains. A thorough pre-embalming case analysis shall be made in order to determine the best embalming techniques to be used to obtain optimum results.

1.3.2.1. The technique of arterial injection and venous drainage is of utmost importance as well as the need for adding humectant (moisture retention chemicals) to the arterial solution injected.

1.3.2.2. Whenever possible, a 6-point arterial injection with multisite drainage shall be accomplished.

1.3.2.3. The arterial chemical solution injected into the remains shall contain a minimum 5 percent concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s). The total volume of arterial solution injected shall not be less than 1 gallon per 50 pounds of body weight.

1.3.2.4. For non-autopsied cases, the thoracic, abdominal, male genitals, and cranial cavities shall be thoroughly aspirated and injected with full-strength cavity chemicals having a 36-index (%) or greater, using a minimum of 16 ounces for each cavity, except the cranial cavity, which requires 2 ounces.

1.3.2.5. Hypodermic injections, packs, or other special treatments shall be accomplished, as required, to ensure the preservation and disinfection of all body tissues, including organs.

1.3.2.6. A lanolin-based (or comparable) massage cream shall be applied on the face and hands to prevent dehydration.

1.3.3. Autopsied Remains. If a partial or complete autopsy is performed, a 6-point injection with multisite drainage shall be accomplished, using arterial chemical solutions as specified for processing viewable remains.

1.3.3.1. Hypodermic injection of the thoracic and abdominal walls, back, buttocks, male genitals, shoulders, and the vertebral column with an undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (percent) or greater concentration is required.

1.3.3.2. When a cranial autopsy is performed, the vertebral and internal carotid arteries must be sealed. The cranial cavity shall be packed with cotton and drying compound, both in the cranium and in the calvarium, and secured by cranial clamps or wiring. The scalp shall be replaced over the calvarium, and the incision will be coated with drying compound and tightly and neatly sutured to avoid leakage and unnatural appearance. The color of the suture cord should blend with the deceased’s hair.

1.3.3.3. Under no circumstances will the service provider dispose of or destroy any internal organs (viscera) or partial remains. The viscera from remains that have had a cranial, thoracic, and/or abdominal examination shall be removed, cut into sections not greater than 2 by 2 inches, and immersed in an undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (%) or greater concentration, for an appropriate amount of time but typically a minimum of two hours.

1.3.3.4. The inner surfaces of the body cavities shall be given a liberal application of gel formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agents.

1.3.3.5. The preserved organs are to be liberally coated with formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s) and drying compound (hardening compound) and placed directly (not in a bio-bag or other plastic bag) into the thoracic or abdominal cavities.

NOTE: Only when the thoracic and/or abdominal cavity is compromised and cannot be closed it is permissible to place the viscera in a labeled clear plastic bag or wrap in plastic sheeting, polymer metallic, foil poly laminate, or similar hermetically sealing materials in order retain the viscera in the abdominal cavity.

1.3.4. Treatment of Scalp (Viewable Remains). If the scalp was shaved because of medical treatment or surgery, processing or reprocessing are required as specified for viewable remains, the cranium shall be wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner.

1.3.5. Mutilated Hands on a Viewable Remains. When the hands are mutilated to the point that restoration is not possible, or discolorations are present that cannot be cleared, the hands shall be treated in a manner that shall render all tissue firm, dry, and thoroughly preserved. The hands, regardless of condition, will then be placed in opaque, leakproof gloves followed by white (military) cloth gloves.

1.3.6. Dressing Remains Including Intact Nonviewable. Remains shall be dressed in the clothing provided by the mortuary officer, mortuary technician, or authorized representative from the mortuary affairs team.

1.3.6.1. Nonviewable remains that cannot be dressed shall be wrapped in the rubber or polyethylene sheeting and blanket furnished by a mortuary affairs team member.

1.3.6.2. Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows: A blanket shall be spread on the dressing table with opposing corners at the head and foot ends of the table. The blanket is then covered with a white cotton sheet followed by a sheet of polyethylene. Two strips of cotton are laid down the center of the plastic sheet and liberally sprinkled with hardening compound. The remains are then laid on the cotton strips, coated with hardening compound and covered with additional cotton strips. The polyethylene sheet is then wrapped around the remains. The white cotton sheet is then wrapped around the plastic-sheathed remains followed by the blanket, which shall have as few creases as possible, and be secured with large safety pins placed no more than 4 inches apart.

A tag identifying the deceased shall be attached to the foot end of the wrapped remains bearing the deceased’s name, rank, last four of the Social Security number or DoD identification number, and date of death. Remains in a full body wrap shall be draped in clothing provided by the mortuary affairs team.

1.3.6.3. Products to include polymer metallic, foil poly laminate, or similar hermetically sealing materials that are designed to prevent leakage of bodily fluids and odor, may be used for full-body wraps in lieu of polyethylene sheeting.

1.4. Embalmer Evaluation. The embalmer (contractor's agent) processing or reprocessing the remains shall critically evaluate the completed treatment to ensure any remains cared for under this contract are effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved, and shall arrive at its destination in satisfactory condition.

1.4.1. The mortuary officer or designate will authorize delivery or shipment of remains when he or she is assured that the services and supplies furnished by the contractor meet this Performance Work Statement and Specification in their entirety.

1.4.2. The mortuary officer shall include the signed DD Form 2063 (Record of Preparations and Disposition of Remains, Contracted Mortuary Facility) when authorizing the shipment of remains.

1.5. Placement in Casket. Remains shall be placed in the casket in a manner that will create an appearance of rest and composure and ensure maintenance of position during transit.

1.5.1. When remains are prepared for shipping, pads will be placed around them to prevent shifting.

1.5.2. A piece of plastic shall be placed between the decedent’s head and the pillow, under the hands, and folded over the top of the hands to prevent transfer of cosmetics. A clean piece of tissue will be placed over the face.

1.5.3. The casket shall be of sufficient size to prevent the appearance of crowding and cramping the remains.

1.6. Quality Assurance Evaluation. Failure to pass the inspector’s evaluation after placement of remains in a casket and before delivery will require the contractor to remove the remains from the casket and perform one or more of the following services as directed by the contracting officer or designate:

1.6.1. Additional disinfectant or preservative treatment.

1.6.2. Re-dressing.

1.6.3. Change or add decorations or insignia.

1.6.4. Place remains in a new casket when the original casket is defective.

1.6.5. When services under this paragraph are performed again, they shall be performed by the contract funeral home at no additional cost to the government.

1.7. Loading Remains. The remains shall be carefully and professionally placed in the type of vehicle designated by the contracting officer for delivery of remains without excessive tilting of remains.

1.8. Transportation of Remains.

1.8.1. Removal. Transport remains in a suitable funeral coach, ambulance, or service car to place where processing or reprocessing is performed.

1.8.2. Delivery. Deliver remains, to include the escort, as follows:

1.8.2.1. The contractor’s funeral coach shall arrive at any location at the time specified by the mortuary officer.

1.8.2.2. Casketed remains will be placed feet first in a funeral coach or other authorized vehicle.

The casket will be flag-draped before transport.

1.8.2.3. For transportation on a common carrier, casket will be placed in a new outer shipping container, with all shipping documents affixed to the outside of the container. Remains will be delivered to the airport in compliance with local airport/common carrier requirements.

1.8.2.4. Remains awaiting final disposition shall be kept in an appropriate holding facility which is secure from unauthorized access and preserves the dignity and integrity of the remains.

Unembalmed remains will be stored at a temperature between 38- and 40-degrees Fahrenheit.

1.8.2.5. The government may, at no additional charge, require the contractor to hold remains for a period of not more than seven days to accommodate the movement of escorts and/or family members.

1.8.3. Employee Attire. Personnel providing any transportation of casketed/inurned remains will be dressed in traditional business attire.

1.9. Cremation. This section identifies services, supplies, and transportation requirements for local cremation when recommended by the contracting officer or designated representative. This PWS does not address the cremation of biologically or chemically contaminated remains.

1.9.1. Remains shall be prepared, dressed, and cosmetized as prescribed in the specifications.

1.9.2. The casket provided shall meet or exceed the Solid Hardwood Casket Specification (4.2)

1.9.3. Transportation of remains (including escort) shall be provided to crematory engaged under contract by the government and returned of cremated remains to the government facility.

1.9.4. The contracting officer or designated representative shall specify whether a solid bronze or solid walnut urn shall be provided. The contractor shall provide an urn that meets or exceeds the applicable urn specification (4.4 and 4.5).

1.9.5. The urn shall be engraved with the name, rank, date of birth, and date of death of the deceased. If a bronze urn is used engrave the urn itself. However, on a solid walnut urn, use the specified engraving plate.

1.9.5.1. The contractor shall place all the cremated remains received from the crematory in the urn.

1.9.5.2. The contractor will pay cremation charges directly to the crematory engaged by the contractor.

1.9.6. Processing Procedure. After preparing, dressing, and cosmetizing the remains in accordance with specifications, the contractor shall do the following:

1.9.6.1. When the remains are wrapped, attach a tag listing the decedent's name, rank, social security number, and date of death to the right ankle or to the top of the blanket and to the casket handle at the head end of the casket.

1.9.6.2. Deliver the casketed remains to the crematory in sufficient time to ensure cremation is accomplished and completed on the same day of delivery to the crematory.

1.9.6.3. Identification of Remains. Identification of the casketed remains shall be verified at the crematory by the crematory authority upon receipt by checking the tag affixed to the casket handle at the head end of the casket bearing the decedent's name, rank, social security number, and date of death. Additionally, this information shall be verified with the information contained on the documentation accompanying the remains. This verification shall constitute adequate identification of the remains by the crematory authority. In the event the information exhibited on the tag is not in agreement with the documentation accompanying the remains, no cremation shall be accomplished until the identification discrepancy is resolved with the authorizing agent.

1.9.6.4. Holding Human Remains for Cremation.

1.9.6.4.1. When the crematory authority is unable to cremate the human remains immediately upon taking custody thereof, the crematory authority shall place the remains in the holding facility.

1.9.6.4.2. A crematory authority shall not accept for holding a casketed remains from which there is any evidence of leakage of fluids through the clothing, military blanket or mattress, or any other interior aspect of the casket from the human remains therein.

1.9.6.4.3. Holding facilities shall be secure from access by anyone other than crematory authority personnel.

1.9.6.5. Cremation of Human Remains.

1.9.6.5.1. The simultaneous cremation of more than one human remains within the same cremation chamber is specifically forbidden.

1.9.6.5.2. Immediately prior to being placed within the cremation chamber, the crematory authority shall verify the identification of the remains. Upon verification, the identification from the outside of the hardwood casket shall be removed and placed near the cremation chamber control panel where it shall remain in place until the cremation process is complete.

1.9.6.6. Processing Cremated Remains.

1.9.6.6.1. Upon completion of cremation all residuals of the cremation process shall be removed from the cremation chamber, insofar as humanly possible, and the chamber swept clean.

Residual shall be placed a container or tray that will ensure against commingling with other cremated remains. The identification shall be removed from the control panel area and attached to the container or tray to await final processing.

1.9.6.6.2. All residuals of the cremation process shall undergo final processing. Any residual shall be manually cleaned of anything other than bone fragments, and the fragments shall then be processed and reduced to an unidentifiable dimension, less than 1/8 inch in size.

1.9.6.6.3. All body prosthesis, bridgework, or similar items removed from the cremated remains shall be destroyed by the crematory authority unless authorization to do otherwise is specifically granted in writing by the authorizing agent.

1.9.6.7. Return the cremated remains to the funeral service establishment or port mortuary facility not later than the day following cremation for inurnment in the designated urn.

1.9.6.8. Inurn the cremated remains promptly upon return to the contract facility or port mortuary according to the following packaging procedures.

1.9.6.8.1. The entire processed remains shall be placed in a sealable container. The sealable container contents shall not be contaminated with any other object.

1.9.6.8.2. The sealable container and identification of the cremated remains shall be placed within a temporary sealable container. If the cremated remains within the sealable container does not completely fill the container, the extra space shall be filled with clean absorbent cotton and the lid or top then securely closed.

1.9.6.8.3. If the entire processed remains will not fit within the sealable container, the remainder shall be placed in a second, separate sealable container.

1.9.6.8.4. When a sealable container is used to return the processed remains, the container shall be placed within a corrugated box and all box seams shall be taped closed to increase the security and integrity of that container. The outside of the container shall be clearly identified with the name, rank, and social security number of the deceased person whose processed remains are contained therein.

1.9.6.9. Release of Containerized Cremated Remains. The crematory authority shall release and give the containerized cremated remains to the contract funeral service establishment and escort the same day the processed cremated remains are containerized.

1.10. Hygienic Practices. The contractor shall employ protective, precautionary hygienic measures and techniques designed to accomplish concurrent and terminal disinfection and decontamination of the entire funeral service establishment and environment.

1.11. Preparation of DD Form 2063, Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains. The contractor shall do the following:

1.11.1. Complete DD Form 2063, legibly, accurately, and to the extent possible for each remains handled under the contract.

1.11.2. Indicate on DD Form 2063, in item 12, "Remarks of Preparing Embalmer," the index of embalming chemicals used in processing/reprocessing remains.

1.11.3. Give the completed Preparation Room History (DD Form 2063) to the mortuary officer at the time of the final inspection of the remains, casket, and shipping case.

1.12. Facilities, Vehicles, and Personnel.

1.12.1. Preparation Room Requirements. The minimum requirements for the preparation room shall include, but not be limited to the following:

1.12.1.1. The room should be at least 144 square feet (Figure B.2.) This size room will accommodate the minimum basic equipment and allow enough work area to perform the complete preparation of remains including dressing and casketing.

1.12.1.2. The room shall at least contain standard commercial embalming table (with attachments), a service sink with hot and cold water, instrument sterilizer, hydro aspirator and electric aspirator, a pressure embalming machine, cupboard space for supplies, appropriate waste receptacles, and a utility table.

1.12.1.3. There shall be sufficient operating instruments, such as hemostats, dressing forceps, surgical knives, curved or double curved post-mortem needle, small and large trocars, arterial tube sets, drainage tube sets with probe points, double injection sets with tubes and tubing, metal slip-hub-type "Y's" and assorted surgical needles, and any other appropriate instruments.

1.12.1.4. There shall be on hand standard commercial embalming chemicals that are recognized and accepted by the funeral service industry. The chemicals shall include arterial and cavity injection chemicals, special purpose injection chemicals, preservative gel preparations, sanitizing, drying and preservative powdered preparations. The contractor should also have on hand: cotton, surgical gloves, embalmer's gowns or smocks, white sheets, cosmetic material and applicators, restorative art materials and instruments, post-mortem and surgical threads.

1.12.1.5. The preparation and embalming room shall be properly lit (OSHA standards) and ventilated with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that provides the air changes per hour required by current OSHA standards or military standards (an average 0.5 ppm of formaldehyde to air over an 8-hour work period, or 2 ppm for a 15-minute short-term exposure limit), whichever is higher (as applicable).

1.12.1.6. The room and all contents shall be clean, orderly, and present a clinically fresh appearance and be free of all extraneous items, such as case lots of embalming chemicals; flower stands, church truck, bier, chairs, the "Prie- Dieu" ensemble (candle sticks, mortuary lamps, background drapes, prayer roll, etc.) and cemetery equipment. Walls, ceiling, and floor must present an appearance as being well maintained and free of cracks, stains, and paint deficiencies.

1.12.1.7. Larger size preparation rooms may contain more like items and the adequacy of the room shall be evaluated on the fact that necessary square footage is present for each item to obtain the standard established in Figure B.3.

1.12.2. Storage Room. Many funeral establishments do not have a special area for storage of remains. Therefore, accepted areas for holding remains is the preparation room or reposing room.

1.12.2.1. In instances where the funeral establishment has no reposing room, the preparation room may be used for holding remains. Under these conditions the room should be at least 224 square feet. This will allow for the storage of one remains and permit the preparation of another remains at the same time.

1.12.2.2. If the funeral establishment uses a reposing room rather than the preparation room for storing or holding remains, the room should be at least 144 square feet. This should accommodate at least two casketed remains awaiting transportation or disposition.

1.12.3. Hearse. The funeral establishment shall have a suitable funeral coach (hearse) for delivery of remains. In addition, the contractor may also have an ambulance or service car that can be used for removal of remains, this does not preclude the use of the funeral coach for removal of remains. The vehicle(s) shall be in good mechanical condition and appearance.

1.12.4. Chapel. There shall be a chapel identifiable as a separate unit (commercial-type folding door acceptable). The furniture and furnishings shall present an appearance of cleanliness and be free from signs of wear and tear. The walls, ceiling and floor shall present an appearance of being well-maintained and free of cracks, peeling, stains, need of paint, etc.

1.12.5. Reposing Room. When the establishment has a reposing room(s) identifiable as a separate unit(s) (commercial-type folding door acceptable), the furniture and furnishings shall present an appearance of cleanliness and be free from signs of wear and tear. The walls, ceiling, and floor shall present an appearance of being well-maintained and free of cracks, peeling, stains, wear, need of paint, etc.

1.12.6. Office. The office shall be adequately equipped and well maintained. The furniture and furnishings shall present an appearance of cleanliness and be free from signs of wear and tear.

The walls, ceiling and floor shall present an appearance of being well-maintained and free of cracks, peeling, stains, wear, need of paint, etc.

1.12.7. Licensed Staff. The funeral establishment and manager and/or owner must be licensed and in good standing as required by State laws.

1.12.8. Competent Staff. The inspection group must determine that the funeral establishment has a competent staff to furnish the highest quality of professional services. (There shall be at least one licensed embalmer on duty or at least on call on a 24-hour-a-day basis.)

1.12.9. External Appearance. External appearance of the funeral establishment and surrounding environment.

1.12.9.1. The outside of the building, regardless of structural materials, and exterior finish shall present an appearance of being well maintained.

1.12.9.2. Adequate parking shall be available and present an appearance of being well maintained.

1.12.9.3. The grounds and landscaping shall give the appearance of being well maintained.

1.12.9.4. The surrounding area shall give the appearance of cleanliness, being well maintained, and shall also be comparable to the surrounding areas of the majority of funeral homes in the locale.

1.13. Pre-award Survey for Mortuary Services. The guidelines in Appendix B have been developed to aid the pre award survey team in performing its inspection/evaluation of the potential contractor’s facilities, equipment and motor vehicles. They will be used to determine that the contractor meets the minimum requirements of the government. In addition, the attached Funeral Home Facilities Inspection Checklist Format (Figure B.1) shall be completed.

2. Government Furnished Items. The Government shall provide the following items:

2.1. Department of Defense Form 2063, Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains, (Preparation Room History).

2.2. Rubber or polyethylene sheeting and blanket required to wrap non-viewable remains that cannot be dressed.

2.3. Necessary clothing for remains that can be dressed.

3. Contractor Furnished Items. In addition to items specified in Section 1. Description of Services, the contractor shall furnish the following:

3.1. Caskets. Specifications are provided in 3.1. and 3.2.

3.1.1. The casket furnished by the contractor for each remains shall be inspected. Although the contractor shall certify that the casket meets the specification, the mortuary officer shall inspect the casket by observation.

3.1.2. In the event a casket is found to be structurally defective at the final destination, the Air Force shall obtain a replacement casket at the destination.

3.1.3. HQ AF Mortuary Affairs may, at their discretion, have the defective casket evaluated and tested by Air Force authorities.

3.1.4. HQ AF Mortuary Affairs shall notify the contracting officer through the Quality Assurance Evaluator (QAE) of the noncompliance and recommend action is taken against the contractor. Additionally, the contractor shall be liable for the cost incurred by the Air Force at the final destination.

3.2. Shipping Containers. Requirements are provided in 4.3. The shipping container furnished by the contractor for each remains shall be inspected. The QAE shall inspect the shipping container to ensure serviceability.

3.3. Urns. Specifications are provided in paragraphs 4.4. and 4.5.

3.3.1. The urn furnished by the contractor for each remains shall be inspected. Although the contractor shall certify that the urn meets specifications, the QAE shall inspect the urn by observation according to the specifications.

3.3.2. If an urn is found to be structurally defective at the final destination, the Air Force shall obtain a replacement urn at destination.

3.3.3. HQ AF Mortuary Affairs may, at their discretion, have the defective urn evaluated and tested by Air Force authorities and shall notify the contracting officer through the QAE of the non-compliance and recommended action be taken against the contractor. Additionally, the contractor shall be liable for the cost incurred by the Air Force at the final destination.

4. Armed Services Specifications. This establishes minimum standards for caskets, shipping containers, and urns., Specifications and contracting requirements are provided in paragraphs 4.1 through 4.4.

4.1. Metal Casket.

4.1.1. Classification.

4.1.1.1. Standard Size 18-gauge metal sealer, cut top. Inside dimensions shall not be less than 78 inches in length, measured between the inner surfaces of the end panels, and 23 inches in width, measured between the inner surfaces of the side panels.

4.1.1.2. Oversize 18-gauge metal sealer, cut top. Inside dimensions shall not be less than 81 inches long, measured between the inner surfaces of the end panels, and 25 inches wide, measured between the inner surfaces of the side panel.

4.1.2. Requirements.

4.1.2.1. Sample Casket. When specified, a sample completed casket and/or sample casket without upholstery shall be made available to the contracting officer or authorized representative for quality assurance inspection in accordance with 4.1.4. The approval of the sample is acceptance of the casket, but does not relieve the contractor of responsibility for compliance with all applicable provisions of this specification. The pre-furnished sample(s) shall be manufactured in the same facilities used to manufacture the caskets furnished under contract.

4.1.2.2. Materials. Materials shall, as a minimum, conform to the applicable specifications and requirements specified hereinafter. Unless otherwise specified herein, tolerances for materials shall, at a minimum, conform to these specifications.

4.1.2.3. Steel: Steel sheet shall be common or standard to that used within the metal casket industry.

4.1.2.3.1. Fabric (Lining). The construction of this cloth shall at a minimum be warp 92 ends 100-denier dull acetate yarn; filling 52 picks - 150-denier dull acetate yarn. The acetate taffeta fabric's finish shall be flat and/or embossed. The color shall be white (ivory).

4.1.2.3.2. Non-woven Fabric Material Tissue (Backing). The non-woven material for backing the fabric of the lining assemblies shall be scrim laminate consisting of 3 x 2 1/2-nylon scrim with 2 plies of tissue adhesively bonded to each side of scrim. White in color.

4.1.2.3.3. Pillow and Body Pocket. Shall be a minimum of 40% cotton and 60% liners or synthetic equivalent.

4.1.2.3.4. Welding. All component parts to be welded shall be properly aligned into position prior to welding. Resistance, arc, or gas welds shall be sound and free from pits, holes, or fissures. Welding shall be accomplished without burning through the welded metals. After any flash welding, outside exposed flash shall be removed entirely and no trace of the joint shall be visible after finishing. All arc or gas welds shall have sufficient penetration to form a joint of strength equal to that of the parent metal. Exposed welds shall be finished flush to the original surface and shall be undetectable after finishing. Repair of welds will be accepted, provided such repaired welds meet the requirements of this specification.

4.1.2.3.5. Upholstering. Upholstering requirements for the lining assemblies of the interior of the head panel lid, sides and ends of casket, the overlay, mattress spread, and pillow are provided in the following paragraphs:

4.1.2.3.5.1. The two-piece top (lid) supports (one-piece top supports shall be finished to compliment the casket) and the sides of the casket body shall be backed with specified fabric.

4.1.2.3.5.2. The head top shall be lined with interior styling.

4.1.2.3.4.3. The foot top shall be lined with specified fabric and backing or may be upholstered by applying a rigid one-piece insert, simulating fabric finish.

4.1.2.3.5.4. The assemblies for the lid or head panel, as applicable, top of the pillowcase, outside exposed body lining, and top side of overthrow shall be "Wave Crushed," tuffed or shirred either by hand or machine.

4.1.2.3.5.5. The interior assemblies for the sides and ends of casket shall be tailored and/or shirred by hand or machine. Before lining the casket, the inside of the shell shall be cleaned of all foreign materials.

4.1.2.3.5.6. Pillow. The pillow shall be made of specified nonwoven material and filled with a minimum of 2-1/4 pounds of the specified filling material. The pillow shall then be encased in a specified outer fabric cover. The pillow shall be sized to properly fit the casket.

4.1.2.3.5.7. Mattress. The mattress shall be made of specified nonwoven fabric or polyethylene (.004) film, and filled with cotton (40% cotton and 60% liners) or equivalent synthetic filling in one piece such as polyester or fiberglass, excluding all foam-type and excelsior materials.

Quality of mattress fill, if cotton or similar, shall be 16 pounds, plus or minus 1 pound. Should the casket be equipped with an adjustable inner spring, the mattress fill shall render a minimum uniform thickness of 2 inches. In either case, the mattress shall be sized to properly fit the casket.

4.1.2.3.5.8. Side panels. Side panels of the casket body shall have padding in the skirting or apron area.

4.1.2.3.6. Finish. The color of the casket's painted finish shall be within the range of silvertone or gray. The painted finish may be achieved through one of the two methods:

4.1.2.3.6.1. Synthetic Enamel, Baked. All surfaces of metal components, including outside of bottom and inside of shell shall be thoroughly cleaned and given a phosphate coating conforming to TT-C-490. A primer shall be applied to all exposed surfaces and shall be sanded to a smooth finish. A primer shall be applied to the outside of bottom and inside of shell. All exterior metal surfaces exposed to view including surfaces that are exposed when the casket is open (not applicable to bottom) shall be coated with the appropriate color synthetic gloss enamel in a quantity not less than 2.0 mils dry film thickness. The exposed heads of screws or bolts used for assembling the casket shall be appropriately finished (plated or painted) to correspond or complement the parent metal finish. The finish coat shall level out to produce a smooth and uniform flow without orange peel, runs, wrinkles, drops, streaks, or areas of thin film or no film.

4.1.2.3.6.2. Nitrocellulose lacquer (air dry or flash dry). All surfaces of metal components shall be thoroughly cleaned and given a phosphate coating conforming to Federal Specification TT-C- 490, Cleaning Methods and Pretreatment Methods of Ferrous Surfaces for Organic Coatings. A primer shall be applied to the outside of bottom and inside of shell. The primer shall be scuff-sanded in all exposed view areas. Forced drying may be used if desired. All exterior metal surfaces exposed to view, including surfaces that are exposed when casket is opened (not applicable to bottom), shall be given an adequate coating of the appropriate color lacquer. All surfaces shall then be coated with a clear lacquer to achieve at least the required 2.0 mils dry film thickness. The exposed heads of screws used for assembling the casket shall be appropriately finished (plated or painted) to correspond or compliment the parent metal finish. The finish coat shall level out to produce a smooth and uniform flow without orange peel, runs, wrinkles, drops, streaks, or areas of thin film or no film. The casket shall be well finished, smooth, clear, and free from defects that may affect the appearance or serviceability.

4.1.2.3.7. A Casket Protective Cover (Paper or Plastic). A cover common to the casket industry shall be placed over each casket.

4.1.3. Construction Design. Sealer Casket. The casket shall be of steel, US Standard, square or round ends with top and bottom molding with a painted finish as specified in 5.1.2.2.7. The casket may have appropriate shading effect. The handle assembly shall be a continuous fixed bar or swing-out type handle. Applied lugs and corners shall be plated in finish. It shall be furnished in the specification sizes (5.1.). The casket shall be constructed to yield an airtight seal when closed which shall prevent the escape of odors and leakage. Air tightness compliance shall be determined in accordance with 5.1.5.1.

4.1.3.1. Construction Details.

4.1.3.1.1. Body. The casket shall be fabricated from 18-gauge thick steel. The top flange shall be of the same material and thickness as the body and shall be reinforced to provide sufficient bearing to support the lid assemblies. The full length of all miters shall be welded.

4.1.3.1.2. Bottom Panel. The bottom panel shall be constructed from one piece of 18-gauge metal or better with reinforcing ridges. The construction details of the bottom follow.

4.1.3.1.2.1. The bottom panel shall withstand, at a minimum, a 350-pound load with deformation not to exceed one- quarter inch (1/4") when tested in accordance with 5.1.5.2.

4.1.3.1.2.2. The one-piece bottom shall be constructed of steel 18-gauge or better in thickness with adequate reinforcing ridges extending lengthwise or crosswise to the bottom.

4.1.3.1.2.3. The bottom panel shall be appropriately reinforced to meet weight and stress requirements.

4.1.3.1.2.4. The entire length and width of the bottom seams shall be (continuous) welded as specified in 5.1.2.2.5.

4.1.3.1.3. The Casket Lid. The casket shall consist of a two-piece (stamped from one piece of metal), cut top lid with traditional oval panel and top frame. The lid shall be fabricated of 18-gauge in thick steel. The bridge between the lids to accommodate the bridge or cross gasket shall be a fullheader.

4.1.3.1.4. Shell Hardware. Each lid shall be hinged with two hinges each for proper support and to effect a positive seal. Lids shall be provided with locking supports for retaining the lids in an open position. Each lid shall have two sealer locks (opposing each hinge) with non-detachable lever-operated handles, or equipped with a crank-type positive lock positive locking system with two locking device engagements opposing the hinges on each lid.

4.1.3.1.5. Handle Assembly. The handle assembly shall be a 3 x 1 or 4 x 1 continuous fixed bar or swing-out handle assembly. The entire handle assembly, bars, lugs, and corners shall be fabricated of metal or a combination of metals standard to the metal casket industry. The entire handle assembly shall be fastened to the casket body in a manner that will ensure the handle assembly shall not rupture or deform when tested in accordance with paragraph

4.1.4.3. The finish applied to the lugs and corners of the handle assembly shall be plated in a manner common to the metal casket industry. The fixed bar or swing-out handles shall be painted or finished in a manner complimenting the casket.

4.1.3.1.6. Perimeter and Bridge or Cross-Gasket System. The gaskets shall be fabricated from natural rubber, neoprene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or closed cell polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or any equivalent of the aforementioned. Gasket corners shall be mitered and molded and either vulcanized (rubber) or heat-sealed (EVA, PVC). The gasket systems with the lids in a closed, locked position shall yield an airtight seal.

4.1.3.1.7. Workmanship. The casket shall be produced by the best means employed by those skilled in the art of metal fabrication and upholstering. All parts shall be accurately formed and properly assembled into the finished article, and each casket shall be of the quality and grade of product established by this specification.

4.1.4. Quality Assurance Provisions. Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all inspection requirements as specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the contract or order, the contractor may use his or her own or any other facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection requirements specified herein. The Government reserves the right to perform any of the inspections set forth in the specifications where such inspections are required to ensure supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements. Any sampling by the contractor for inspection and acceptance shall be performed in accordance with the provisions set forth in ANSI/ASQC Z1.4-1993, Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection of Attributes.

4.1.4.1. Visual examination of the caskets shall be in accordance with the classification of defects set forth in Figure 5.1.

4.1.4.1.2. Dimensional inspection shall be made of the finished caskets for dimensions specified.

Any noncompliance with specified requirements shall constitute a defect.

4.1.4.1.3. End Item Testing. Inspection shall be performed in accordance with the test methods in paragraph 4.1.5:

4.1.5. Test Methods.

4.1.5.1. Air tightness. Federal law prohibits the conduct of the Halogen Leak Test. The Government and/or manufacturer shall conduct a reliable and verifiable leak test that is recognized and accepted throughout the industry for detecting casket leaks. Results will be used to determine compliance.

4.1.5.2. Bottom Deformation Test. The casket will be loaded with a uniformly distributed weight of 350 pounds. With lids closed and locked, the casket will be attached to a rectangular suspension frame by evenly-spaced metal straps at six points alongside each handle, as close as possible to hardware attachment points, and arranged to produce uniform weight distribution by using adjustable wedges. The width of the straps around the handle will be 3 inches. The suspension frame shall be lifted until the bottom of the casket clears the floor by 4 inches.

Bottom deformation shall be measured by placing a straight edge under the casket from the front side to the backside at the casket's midpoint. The extent of deformation shall be the average of two measurements taken simultaneously at the front and back edges of the casket. The readings shall be determined by measuring the distance from the bottom of the casket to the top of the straight edge. The casket shall remain suspended for a period of 15 minutes and examined for compliance.

4.1.4.3. Handle Bend Test, Static Loading. The test shall be in accordance with the bottom deformation test except that the casket shall be suspended at two points on each side. These points shall be located midway between the lugs toward the ends of the casket. The same test shall be performed on the end handles. Each end shall be lifted separately using two points of suspension on the end handle. Handles shall then be examined for compliance.

4.1.5. Metal Casket Certification. The manufacturer shall be required to provide a statement that the casket to be furnished for use under the terms of the contract conforms in all details to the minimum specifications contained therein.

Figure 4.1.…