DIGNITY CLAUSE.docx

This is a Dignity Clause document establishing mandatory standards for contractor personnel working at national cemeteries, specifically addressing the respectful handling of headstones, markers, and human remains. The clause requires that all contractor actions be performed with special care, reverence, dignity, and respect, acknowledging the cemetery as a final resting place for service members, Veterans, and their families. Contractors are explicitly prohibited from walking, standing, leaning, sitting, or jumping on headstones or markers, and are forbidden from driving over them or placing tools, equipment, or other items on them. Contractors must exercise care to avoid scratching or damaging markers and are held responsible for replacing any damaged headstones and markers and restoring damaged turf. Should any work result in exposure to or damage of human remains, containers for remains, or outer burial containers, contractors must immediately contact the Contracting Officer Representative (COR), Director/Assistant Director, or Contracting Officer for guidance.

The clause further requires contractors to bring any procedural questions or doubts to the attention of the COR, Director/Assistant Director, or Contracting Officer for resolution. Prior to commencing work, contractors must discuss this guidance with all employees and subcontractors and obtain signed statements of compliance from each individual, which must be delivered to the COR before work begins. This clause applies to the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance contract (Solicitation QSE--36C78626R50071), a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business Set-Aside requiring comprehensive grounds maintenance services including headstone services, gravesite maintenance, turf and grass care, landscaping, irrigation and drainage systems, and ceremonies assistance.