Attachment_1_-_PWS.pdf

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

FOR MORTUARY SERVICES

TO SUPPORT

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, WASHINGTON

PREPARED BY

92D FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON

04 May 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PARA

Description of Services………………………………........…....…………………………. 1

Mortuary Services (Armed Services Specification)…..…...…....…………………………. 2

Classification of Remains……………………………..…...…....…………………………. 3

Preparation of Remains (Pre Embalming)………..……..…..…....…………………………4

Treatment of Remains………………….………………….…....…………………………...5

Transportation of Remains………………..………………..…....…………………………. 6

Cremation……………………………………..…………….…....………………………… 7

State or Other Civil Authority Issued Permits and Certificates…....………………………. 8

Storage of Remains…..…………………………………......…....………………………… 9

Commercial Description of Items……...…………………...…....………………………… 10

Government Furnished Items………..………….…………..…....………………………….11

Appendix A Funeral Home Inspection Criteria

Figure A1 Funeral Home Facilities Inspection Check List

Figure A2 Preparation Room Minimum Square Footage Requirement

Appendix B Crematory Inspection Criteria

Appendix C Classification of Defects

1. Description of Services.

1.1. Purpose: The 92d Force Support Squadron is acquiring mortuary services for the embalming, restoration, other preparation, care, and disposition of remains of authorized personnel. The contractor shall provide licensed facilities, equipment, licensed funeral service practitioners, motor vehicles, professional services, supplies, death certificates, caskets, urns, outer shipping containers, and transportation as specified in this performance work statement (PWS). The contractor will comply with all existing federal, state, territory, and local licensing requirements and regulatory standards applicable in the area of performance of this contract.

1.2. Hygienic Practices: The preparing mortuary facility will employ universal precautions, protective equipment, and other hygienic measures and techniques designed to accomplish concurrent and terminal disinfection and decontamination of the preparation room, dressing, and shipping areas, in accordance with (IAW) applicable laws, regulations, ordinances and codes.

1.3. Time allotted to perform: The contractor will furnish the materials needed and perform the services specified by the Mortuary Affairs representative within 24 hours upon initial notification with the understanding that the remains may or may not be ready for pick up immediately after the initial 24 hour period.

1.4. Quality Assurance: The goods and services purchased from the contractor will meet or exceed the standards contained within this document. The Government reserves the right to perform inspections to ensure supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements using Appendix A, and Appendix B. of this document.

1.4.1. Remains will be inspected as follows: after embalming, after dressing, and after placement of remains in a casket using Figure 1.4.1 Mortuary Officers Inspection of Remains Checklist. Failure to pass these inspections will require the contractor to remove the remains from the casket and perform one or more of the following services as directed by the Mortuary Affairs representative: additional disinfectant or preservative treatment, re-dressing or rewrapping, or placement of remains in new casket when the original casket is defective.

1.4.2. When the Mortuary Affairs representative directs corrective action under para 1.4.

and 1.4.1. of this document, the contractor shall perform the corrective measures and other required services again at no additional cost to the Government.

2. Mortuary Services (Armed Services Specification).

2.1 General. The contractor shall be responsible for providing professional services of the highest quality to assure viewing of the remains under optimal conditions. The contractor shall practice hygienic measures that will insure complete and satisfactory disinfections and sanitation of the funeral establishment. All supplies and technical procedures shall conform to the highest standards and professional techniques acceptable to the American Funeral Service Industry.

2.2 Processing or Reprocessing of Remains.

2.2.1. Un-embalmed Remains: Remains will be placed in refrigeration at 36-38 degrees F (2.2-3.3 degrees C) until the remains are identified and the disposition instructions have been received.

2.2.2. Processing of Remains: The embalming will ensure complete disinfection and preservation of all tissue. Additionally, when the condition of remains allow, all efforts will be made to restore remains IAW paragraph 2.2.5 of this document, to facilitate viewing. The contractor will ensure that cosmetics are applied to the deceased and that the remains are dressed or wrapped, casketed, and transported as directed by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

2.2.3. Chemical Preservative Preparation: Arterial, cavity, and other embalming chemicals will be used in the treatment of all remains IAW paragraph 5 of this document.

2.2.4. Restorative Art: Restorative art is defined as care of the deceased to recreate natural form and color to provide an opportunity for the family to view the deceased.

2.2.4.1. Minor restorations include, but are not limited to, correcting a misaligned fracture, hypodermic tissue building, reduction of swelling, sub-tissue surgery (mouth or eye), waxing (lips, abrasions, sutures or razor burns), suturing clean cuts, small hair replacements (eyebrow, eyelash, or temporal hair), bleaching and concealing minor discolorations or removal and restoration of fever sores (scabs).

2.2.4.2. Major restorations include, but are not limited to, the restoration of a full head of hair, sub-tissue surgery of a swollen neck, problems with misaligned or protruding teeth, deep wound preparation (after excision of necrotic, mutilated or diseased tissue), care of deep lacerations, repair (or reconstruction) of multiple fractures, third degree burns, skin slip, dismemberment of a limb (or head), and complete loss of a part. Technical skill is required to artificially construct a distorted portion of the face or cranium, wax surfacing over a large wound (cheek, forehead, or neck), modeling a facial feature, achieving a natural appearance when masking a completely discolored face (or large post-mortem stain) with opaque cosmetics or matching wax with the complexion.

2.2.4.3. Semblance of limbs. The contract funeral home will not undertake the creation of the semblance of limbs without express written authorization from the

3. Classification of Remains.

3.1 General: The contract funeral home embalmer will make a recommendation to the Mortuary Affairs representative regarding view ability of the deceased. Remains will be classified in one of three categories: viewable, viewable for identification only, or non-viewable. Every attempt will be made to restore remains to a natural form and color that permits the Mortuary Affairs representative to make the decision on whether the remains be viewed or not. The manner in which the remains are to be prepared will take into consideration cultural and religious customs and traditions and the person authorized direct disposition (PADD)’s preferences.

3.1.1. VIEWABLE. Remains are considered viewable when the face and hands have only minor or no trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration. Remains may be fully restored to a natural color and form. Condition of remains allows for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD.

3.1.2. VIEWABLE FOR IDENTIFICATION ONLY. Remains may or may not be fully intact; with face and hands that may have trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration. Although remains may be missing limbs or have received other trauma, the condition of remains may allow for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD. Remains may be restored to an appearance suitable for visual recognition.

3.1.3. NON-VIEWABLE. Remains may or may not be fully intact; and may manifest extreme trauma, edema, dehydration, discoloration, or decomposition. Remains may not be restored to an appearance suitable for visual recognition. Condition of remains may not allow for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD.

3.1.3.1. HEADWRAP. Remains are categorized as such when they are categorized as non-viewable with the face or head having severe trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration where restoration to a condition of viewable recognition is not possible.

However, the condition of remains still allow for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD. The head wrap will be accomplished IAW paragraph

5.7.2.1 of this document.

3.1.3.2. FULL BODY WRAP. Remains categorized as non-viewable. The remains may not be intact or have sustained severe trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration where restoration to a condition of viewable recognition is not possible which will require using a full body wrap. The full body wrap will be accomplished IAW paragraph 5.7.2.2 of this document.

4. Preparation of Remains (Pre Embalming) according to AFI 34-501 Mortuary Affairs Program para 3.19.

4.1. General. The contract funeral home will prepare and embalm the remains unless embalming is expressly prohibited in writing by the PADD. Frequently, final disposition of remains may not be received for a period of 10 days or more or the remains may be subjected to extreme weather conditions, or the remains may be transported over long distances. All remains, whether viewable or non-viewable, 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 remains.

4.1.1. Insect Treatment: Maggots and other insect larvae shall be destroyed and removed, and their breeding sites in or on the remains thoroughly treated with an appropriate chemical.

4.1.2. Disinfecting: All body orifices shall be treated with a non-astringent, disinfectant chemical.

4.1.3. Washing: All body surfaces will be thoroughly washed with warm water and germicidal soap. Special attention will be given to the viewable surfaces, i.e. the face and hands.

4.1.4. Grooming: For military personnel male facial and scalp hair shall be washed and groomed to conform to military standards using Air Force Instruction (AFI) 36-2903 Dress and Appearance; suitable hair preparation shall be accomplished for females to conform to military standards unless expressed otherwise in writing by the PADD.

Fingernails shall be cleaned and trimmed. For non-military personnel, the Mortuary Affairs representative will check with the family to ascertain personal preferences.

4.1.5. Setting features: The mouth will be securely closed by needle injector, muscular or mandibular suture, where the lips should form a natural expression. The eyes shall be securely closed by the use of eye caps, with proper attention given to prevent wrinkling of the eyelids and a sunken appearance.

4.1.6. Body positioning: The body will be positioned to appear comfortable and restful.

The head will be positioned straight, without any turn, and hands will be positioned left over right. Deviation will be dependent upon the conditions of the remains and must be approved by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

4.1.7. Damaged Tissue: The embalmer will determine when during the preparation process ulcerated, burned, and necrotic tissue, and/or bedsores, shall be excised and/or treated either by hypodermic injection or by cavity pack application of deodorizing/preserving chemicals.

5. Treatment of Remains according to AFI 34-501 Mortuary Affairs Program para 3.19.

5.1 Preparation of Viewable Remains: To obtain optimum results, a thorough pre-embalming case analysis will be completed by the embalmer utilizing the number of arterial injection sites necessary to ensure proper distribution of fluid. The only exception to this requirement is in the absence of a limb or the head. The arterial chemical solution injected into the remains shall contain a minimum 5% 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. Unless the decedent is edematous, a humectant must be added in equal volume to the arterial chemical, in the total fluid solution injected into the head and arms. It is permissible for a humectant based arterial chemical to be used in lieu of humectant additive being incorporated into the total fluid solution. 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. A minimum of 16 ounces of cavity chemical must be injected into the thoracic cavity, and a minimum of 16 ounces in the abdominal cavity and male genitals, and a minimum of 2 ounces of cavity chemical to ensure preservation of contents of the cranial cavity, having a 36-index (%) or greater. Hypodermic injections, packs, or other special treatments shall be accomplished, as required, to assure the disinfection and preservation of all body tissues. A suitable cream or lotion shall be applied on the face and hands to prevent dehydration.

5.2. Preparation of Non-viewable Remains: To obtain optimum results, a thorough pre-embalming case analysis will be completed. Each gallon of arterial fluid shall contain a minimum 10% 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. All body areas shall be further treated by means of 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. 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. A minimum of 16 ounces of cavity chemical must be injected into the thoracic cavity, and a minimum of 16 ounces in the abdominal cavity and male genitals, and a minimum of 2 ounces of cavity chemical to ensure preservation of contents of the cranial cavity, having a 36-index (%) or greater. When arterial injection and/or cavity treatment is not possible, all articulated and disarticulated anatomical portions shall be thoroughly disinfected and preserved via hypodermic injection and accessory chemical embalming techniques. Immersion and/or hypodermic-injection with a trocar and/or syringe and needle, using full strength cavity chemicals 36-index (%) or greater is acceptable. Surface application of liquid, gel, or dry sanitizers and preservatives is also required to supplement primary needle and/or hypodermic injection techniques.

5.3. Autopsied Remains: If a partial or complete autopsy is performed, a 6-point injection with multisite drainage shall be accomplished, using the arterial chemical solutions requirements as specified in 5.1. or 5.2. Hypodermic-injection of the thoracic and abdominal walls; back, buttocks, male genitals, shoulders, vertebral column with an undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (%) or greater is required. The scalp will be injected by syringe and needle with the chemical solution used for the arterial injection. Under no circumstances with 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 x 2 inch and immersed in a undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (%) or greater, for an appropriate amount of time but typically a minimum of 2 hours. The inner surfaces of the body cavities shall be given a liberal application of gel formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent. The preserved organs are to be placed into the thoracic or abdominal cavities and liberally coated with a formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent and drying compound (hardening compound). 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 the calvarium secured by cranial clamps or wiring. The scalp shall be replaced over the calvarium, 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.

5.4. Treatment of Scalp (Viewable Remains): If the scalp was shaved because of medical treatment or surgery, processing or reprocessing shall be accomplished as specified for viewable remains, after which the cranium shall be wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner. The component Service retains the ability to use an authorized uniform hat or beret, in lieu of gauze wrap. For remains requiring a partial head wrap the remains will be prepared IAW paragraph 5.1. The embalmer will ensure the tissue is firm, dry, and thoroughly preserved. The wrapping will be accomplished IAW paragraph 5.7.2.1.

of this document, but will be limited to covering the affected area of trauma providing the possibility of viewing if desired by the PADD.

5.5. Mutilated Hands (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 which shall render all tissue firm, dry, and thoroughly preserved. The hands, regardless of condition, will then be placed in opaque, leak proof gloves followed by white (military) cloth gloves.

5.6. Wounds, stains and discolorations: All lacerations, abrasions, incisions, excisions, and burn wounds shall be sealed and/or sutured to prevent leakage. Swollen or distorted features shall be reduced, if possible, to the normal contours. Applying packs and/or needle injection may be used to chemically bleach ante mortem/postmortem stains. On viewable areas, masking cosmetics may be used to render stains/discolorations non-detectable.

5.7. Dressing Remains: The PADD will be consulted and provided the opportunity to determine the clothing the deceased is to be dressed, or which is to be displayed upon the top of wrapped remains, as the situation dictates. The contract funeral home providing mortuary services will be provided the clothing selected. Prior to dressing, all remains will be placed in a white, opaque, or clear leak proof protective undergarment (one-piece plastic garment used to cover the entire body from the neck down to include the feet). Drying powder and/or preservative powders will be placed inside the protective undergarment to absorb any possible leakage or odors.

5.7.1. Viewable: Remains that have been processed or reprocessed as outlined in paragraph 5.1., will be dressed in the clothing provided by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

5.7.2. Non-viewable with Full Body Wrap: Remains that have been processed as outlined in paragraph 5.2., of this document, will be draped in the clothing provided by the Mortuary Affairs representative. Trauma that is isolated to a specific area will be wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner. Example: In severe head trauma, the head will be sealed to ensure no leakage occurs, and then wrapped IAW paragraph 5.7.2.1 of this document.

5.7.2.1. Head Wrap. During the embalming process, the tissue shall be prepared to present as natural a head shape as possible once the head wrap process is complete.

Required materials to accomplish the head wrap process include: two (2) clear or semi- transparent plastic (.78 mil or greater) liner bags approximately 24” by 23”; 2” white surgical tape or 2” clear strapping tape; 12 yards of 4.5” (Sterile or Non-sterile) gauze bandage (approx. 3 rolls); cotton prep towels; (sterile or non-sterile) absorbent cotton or absorbent sheet product. Prior to beginning the wrapping process, all tissue and hair shall be rendered as dry as possible. Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows: The embalmer will place one clear or semi-transparent bag over the head and tuck down into the full-body, plastic garment, as required in paragraph 5.7. Ensure all air is removed from the bag before it is secured at the base of the neck with tape.

Taping the bag around the forehead, over the nose and over the chin may provide a more aesthetically pleasing shape. The embalmer will place a second clear or semi-transparent bag over the head and repeat the above steps, taking care not to lose shape of the facial features, if present. A minimum of three (3) strips of gauze bandage will be prepared side by side, overlapping .25 inch and centered over the crown of the head extending to the base of the skull and the base of the chin. The bandage will be tightly stretched and unobtrusively secured by tape. Beginning at the natural hairline on the left side of the head, the embalmer will secure the end of gauze bandage roll.

Once secure, the gauze bandage will be wrapped around the head, overlapping the previous row of bandage by one half the width of the gauze bandage. This is done to ensure no visibility of the underlying plastic bag or and to present a neat and professional appearance. The gauze bandage will continue to be wrapped around the head, down the neck until it reaches the base of the neck and will be secured with white surgical tape. The remains should then be dressed IAW paragraph 5.7., ensuring no tape is visible above the collar of the shirt or blouse.

5.7.2.2. Wrapped Remains: Remains that have been processed or reprocessed as outlined in paragraphs 5.1. or 5.2., and are traumatized to the extent that the remains cannot be dressed, shall be wrapped.

5.7.2.2.1. Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows: Polyethylene sheeting (5 mil or greater) and a wool blanket shall be furnished by the Service’s mortuary representative. The military wool 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 white cotton sheet followed by a sheet of polyethylene. Cotton strips are laid down the center of the plastic sheet and liberally coated with a preservative/drying compound (hardening compound). The dorsal side of the remains shall be coated with a gel preservative and then laid on top of the prepared wrapping material on the dressing table. The ventral side of the remains shall be liberally coated with a preservative/drying compound (hardening compound). Additional cotton strips shall be placed over the remains, completely covering them. The polyethylene sheet is then folded in around the remains. The folding of the polyethylene sheeting, white cotton sheet and wool blanket shall be uniform, with the head and foot ends folded in first.

5.7.2.2.2. The wrapping material on the left side of the remains shall be folded to the right. The right side then folded to the left side of the remains shall be secured with tape or pins, as applicable and described below. All seams in the polyethylene sheeting shall be sealed with nylon filament packing tape, to ensure no odor and/or fluid is emitted from the wrapping. When necessary, in extreme cases, duplicate layers of polyethylene sheets may be used. The white cotton sheet is then wrapped around the polyethylene- sheathed remains, secured with large safety pins (silver in color, 2-3 inches) placed no more than 4 inches apart. The wool blanket is then wrapped around the white cotton sheet, which shall have as few creases as possible, and 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 name, rank, last four of the social security number or common access card (CAC) identification number, and date of death.

5.8. Cosmetics: Cosmetics shall be applied only in the amount necessary to produce natural color and texture. For female Service members the cosmetics will conform to military standards IAW AFI 36-2903 Dress and Appearance, unless expressly requested otherwise in writing by the PADD.

5.9. Embalmer Evaluation: The embalmer processing the remains shall critically evaluate the completed treatment to ensure all remains are effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved and will arrive at its destination in excellent condition. The Mortuary Affairs representative will authorize delivery or shipment of remains when assured that the services and supplies furnished by the contractor including the signed, DD Form 2063 (Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains, CONUS) Figure 5.9 in this document, meets this PWS and commercial item descriptions in their entirety.

5.10. Placement in Casket: Remains shall be placed in the casket in a manner that will create an appearance of rest and repose. When remains are prepared for transit or shipping, body positioning devices may be placed around the remains to prevent shifting. Only positioning devices available from funeral service suppliers are authorized. A piece of plastic will be placed between the decedent’s head and the pillow. A piece of plastic will be placed under the hands, for transit, to ensure cosmetics are not transferred onto the uniform or clothing. When white gloves are utilized, no plastic is required under the hands. A clean piece of tissue will be placed over the face. The casket shall be of sufficient size to prevent the appearance of crowding and cramping. When an “oversize” casket is used, the preparing facility will notify the Mortuary Affairs representative.

6. Transportation of Remains.

6.1 Removal. Transport remains must be in a funeral coach, or appropriate first-call vehicle, from any place designated by the Mortuary Affairs representative to the place where processing is to be performed.

6.2. Prior to transport of the casketed remains: If the casket has an adjustable bed it will be lowered to the bottom. When applicable the locking tube cap or memorial cap will be removed prior to air shipment. A casket key will be provided for all international shipments.

6.3. Encasing Casket for air transport. The casket will be placed in a new outer shipping container as required. All shipping documents will be affixed to the outside of the shipping container. For authorized personnel, the casket will be flag draped prior to being placed in the air tray. (See appendix D-1.7 for information on the air tray.)

6.4. Overland transportation of casketed remains. The casketed remains will be placed feet first in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Service. For authorized personnel, the casket will be flag draped prior to transport.

6.4.1. Delivery of casketed remains: Remains will be transported in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Service, to a place designated by the person with authority to direct or effect disposition. This may include the following: directly to a common carrier, the receiving funeral home, or to a Government or non-Government cemetery. The vehicle carrying the remains shall arrive at the designated location at the time specified by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

6.4.2. Common Carrier: Remains shipped by common carrier will be delivered to the airport IAW local airport/common carrier requirements. Transfer from the preparing mortuary facility to a common carrier will be in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Service.

6.4.3. When subsequently identified remains are transferred to a crematorium, the cremation container will be accompanied by a flag, when authorized, during the movement. Cremated remains will be delivered to the designated location as directed by the PADD.

6.5 Sheltering of Remains: The Government may, at no additional charge, to accommodate movement of escorts and/or family members and/or any other extenuating circumstances.

6.6. Employee Attire: Personnel providing any transportation of the remains will be dressed in traditional business attire. Traditional business attire includes business suits, dress shirts, and ties for men. It includes business-oriented suits for women, both skirted suits and tailored pantsuits. Appropriate dress shoes (closed-toe/closed heel), socks and/or hosiery are also a requirement for any outfit to qualify for traditional business attire. Military personnel will wear appropriate military uniform designated by the Military Service. Wearing of outer garments and protective footwear is authorized for inclement weather or as required.

7. Cremation.

7.1 Cremation. This identifies services, supplies, and transportation requirements for local cremation when directed by the Mortuary Affairs representative. Remains shall be prepared, dressed, and cosmitized as specified. The cremation casket provided shall meet the commercial item description as stated in paragraphs 10.1 through 10.3 of this document. A tag identifying the deceased shall be attached to the right ankle or to the top of the blanket (non-viewable wrapped remains) and the head-end casket handle. The tag will bear the deceased’s name, rank, social security number, and date of death. Transportation of remains (including escort) shall be provided to the crematory in sufficient time to ensure cremation is accomplished and returned to the processing facility on the same day. The Mortuary Affairs representative shall specify whether a solid bronze or solid walnut urn shall be required. The contractor shall provide an urn that meets the applicable urn specification as stated in paragraphs 10.5 through 10.6.3 of this document. The bronze urn shall be engraved with the name, rank, date of birth, and date of death (Month, Day, and Year). However, on a solid walnut urn, the information will be inscribed on an engraving plate. The contractor shall ensure all the cremated remains received from the crematory are placed in the urn and delivered to the destination designated by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

7.2 Prior to delivery of remains to the crematory, the contractor will ensure that the retort (cremation chamber) and processor are operational. In the event either is inoperable, the contractor will arrange for cremation services, to be performed to the standards of this contract, at another facility at no additional cost to the Government.

7.3 Crematory and Cremation Procedures. This section establishes crematory and cremation procedures to include verification of identification of the remains to be cremated.

7.3.1 Receipt and Identification of Remains at the Crematory.

7.3.1.1 Identification of Remains. Identification of the casketed remains shall be verified by the crematory authority upon receipt by checking the tags affixed to the casket handle at the head end and attached to the right ankle or to the top of the blanket (non-viewable) against the documentation accompanying the remains. This shall constitute adequate verification of identification of the remains by the crematory operator. In the event the information 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 Mortuary Affairs representative. The contractor shall ensure the crematory provides a receipt for the remains. The receipt must show the name and address of the crematory facility, date and time of delivery of remains, verified name of deceased, type of container the remains were delivered, type of urn provided (when the crematory is a subcontractor) and signed by both the person delivering and the crematory representative receiving the remains.

7.4 Holding Human Remains for Cremation. When the crematory operator is unable to cremate the human remains immediately upon taking custody thereof, the crematory authority shall place the remains in a holding area not accessible to the public. Remains will not be stored overnight at the crematory unless the funeral home and crematory are one and the same.

7.5 Cremation of Human Remains. The simultaneous cremation of more than one human remains within the same cremation chamber is specifically forbidden. The crematory will not provide cremation for pets, other animals, and other non-human waste.

7.6 Remains accountability. Immediately prior to being placed within the cremation chamber, the crematory authority shall assign a cremation number that will correspond to the number on a metal ID disk, ceramic tile, or similar device. The numbered ID disk, ceramic tile, or similar device will be placed in the chamber with the remains being cremated. The numbered disk, tile or similar device will be maintained with the cremated remains from the retort until the cremated remains are placed in the urn. The numbered ID disk, ceramic tile, or similar device will then be affixed to the packaged cremated remains inside the urn.

7.7 Processing Cremated Remains.

7.7.1 Upon completion of cremation, the cremated remains shall be removed from the cremation chamber and the chamber swept clean. The cremated remains will be placed in a container or tray dedicated solely to the individual cremation. The identification disk, ceramic tile or similar device shall be attached to the container or tray to wait final processing.

7.7.2 All body prostheses, bridgework, or similar items, metallic casket parts, and uniform accoutrements not consumed or destroyed in the cremation process shall be segregated from the cremated remains and disposed of in accordance with applicable funeral industry practices.

7.7.3 All cremated remains shall undergo final processing where each fragment is reduced to an unidentifiable dimension of no more than 1/8 inch in size.

7.8 Inurnment of cremated remains. After processing, the cremated remains shall be placed in an urn provided by the Mortuary Affairs representative with the identification disk, ceramic tile or similar device affixed to the top of the packaged cremated remains inside the urn.

7.8.1 If the cremated remains do not fill the urn, the extra space shall be filled with clean absorbent cotton. If the volume of the cremated remains exceeds the capacity the urn provided, use the Oversized Urn listed in paragraphs 10.5.2 or 10.6.2 of this document depending on the style selected.

7.8.2 Release of cremated remains. The contractor shall release the cremated remains to the Mortuary Affairs representative on the same day of the cremation.

7.8.2.1 The contractor will provide the Mortuary Affairs representative with a receipt for the release of the urn containing the cremated remains. The receipt must show the name and address of the Government activity receiving the urn and cremated remains, date and time of release of the urn and cremated remains, verified name of deceased to include the cremation number, the type of urn the cremated remains are released in, and signed by both the person releasing and the Mortuary Affairs representative receiving the remains.

7.8.2.2 Release Documentation. The contractor will provide all necessary documentation required for disposition of the cremated remains to include the certificate of cremation and burial/transit permit. If the state law does not prescribe the format for a cremation certificate, then the contractor will prepare and sign a certificate that includes the deceased’s name, date of death, date of cremation, the corresponding cremation identification number, and the name and address of the crematory.

8. State or Other Civil Authority Issued Permits and Certificates.

8.1 The contractor will obtain the necessary civil permits and licenses to inter or transport remains (e.g. Burial/Transit Permits) and provide one copy to the Mortuary Affairs representative at the time the remains are inspected and accepted by the Mortuary Affairs representative.

8.2. The contractor will submit the necessary information and documents to the civil authority that is authorized by the State or Territory to issue death certificates.

8.2.1 The contractor will obtain fifteen death certificates from the State or Territory authority that issues death certificates and provide them within 10 business days to the

8.2.2 In the event a supplemental/amended death certificate authorized by the State or Territory is issued, the contractor will provide 15 copies of the final death certificate to the Mortuary Affairs representative within 10 business days of each certificate being issued.

8.2.3 The contractor will provide 2 copies of any other certificate issued by the State or Territory in conjunction with the death (e.g., medical examiner cremation authorization certificate).

9. Storage of remains: The Government may, at no additional charge, require the contractor to hold the remains for an additional period not to exceed 72 hours from the time the remains are casketed and final inspection completed. 72 hours holding period extensions may be requested with pre-approval of both parties and agreement in advance on payment method.

10. Commercial Description of Items. This establishes minimum standards for caskets, shipping containers, urns and emblems. They will meet or exceed the American Funeral Industry’s standards with the following specific requirements for the American Armed Forces.

10.1 Inspection of Items. Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the inspection on all items listed in paragraphs 10.2 through 10.8 The Government reserves the right to perform any inspections to assure supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements

10.2 Metal Caskets. Will be provided by contractor.

10.2.1 Standard. Will be an 18-gauge metal sealer, cut top. The color will be a silver tone to gray with a white to eggshell crepe interior. 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.

10.2.2 Oversize. Oversize will be an 18-gauge metal sealer, cut top (same color and material as the standard). 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.

10.3 Hardwood Caskets. Will be provided by contractor.

10.3.1 Standard Size. This will be a Perfection Cut Half Couch Hardwood Casket.

Select hardwoods shall be used throughout the caskets. The hardwood used in fabricating or constructing the caskets shall be one of the following: poplar, Salix (willow), or cottonwood. Thickness of the rough lumber used in hardwood caskets shall not be less than 4/4 (1-inch) stock. The color will be a walnut satin finish with a rose tan crepe interior. Inside dimensions shall not be less than 77 ½ inches in length, measured between the inner surfaces of the end panels, and 22 ½ inches in width, measured between the inner surfaces of the side panels.

10.3.2 Oversize. Will meet the description listed above in paragraph 10.4.1 except for inside dimensions. 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.

10.4 Shipping Containers (Air Tray or Equivalent). Will be provided by contractor.

Shipping containers are authorized for shipment of standard and oversize caskets. Casket shipping containers furnished by contractors shall conform to the Performance Testing Specification requirements of the air carriers and subsequent connecting carriers. For overseas shipment, the contractor shall provide a casket-shipping container that meets the requirements of the air carrier(s) and overseas countries involved.

10.5 Solid Hardwood Urns. Will be provided by contractor.

10.5.1 Standard Size. Solid American Black Walnut (Juglans Nigra) Urn. The design shall be cube-like with flared base and no single dimension less than one-half (1/2) the length, width, or depth. It shall have at least one dimension of no less than 6 inches. The inside capacity shall be no less than 200 cubic inches.

10.5.2 Oversize. Solid American Black Walnut (Juglans Nigra) Urn. The design shall be cube-like with flared base and no single dimension of less than one-half (1/2) the length, width, or depth. It shall have at least one dimension of no less than 7 ½ inches.

The inside capacity shall be not less than 300 cubic inches.

10.6 Solid Bronze Urn. Will be provided by contractor.

10.6.1 Standard Size. Solid bronze urn shall be a cube-like design. The metal shall be a bronze or commercial bronze alloy with a minimum of 85 percent copper and the balance shall be comprised of tin, lead, and/or zinc or any other commercially accepted alloying metals. The metal shall be wrought and/or cast. The finished wrought metal shall be not less than 0.090 inch. The finished cast metal shall be not less than 0.125 inch. It shall have no single dimension being less than ½-inch the length, width, or depth.

It shall have at least one dimension being no less than 5 ½ inches. The inside capacity shall be not less than 200 cubic inches.

10.6.2 Oversize. Solid bronze urn shall be a cube-like design. The metal shall be a bronze or commercial bronze alloy with a minimum of 85 percent copper and the balance shall be comprised of tin, lead, and/or zinc or any other commercially accepted alloying metals. The metal shall be wrought and/or cast. The finished wrought metal shall be not less than 0.090 inch. The finished cast metal shall be not less than 0.125 inch. It shall have no single dimension being less than one-half (1/2) the length, width or depth. It shall have at least one dimension no less than 6 inches. The inside capacity shall not be less than 300 cubic inches.

10.7 Military Emblems. Will be provided by contractor. The urn shall have affixed a cast bronze military emblem. The emblem’s finish shall be satin for the raised portion while the background shall be a contrasting darker color. The emblem shall be 3 inches in diameter.

The emblem shall be affixed to the face side of the urn with two threaded brass studs, washers, and nuts. The portions of the studs extending beyond the nuts inside the urn shall be covered to prevent penetration and perforation of the urn’s inner container. The emblem shall be centered from left to right on the upper portion of the face side of the urn to allow a balanced space below for engraving. The military emblems to be provided are can include US Air Force, US Navy, US Marine Corps, US Army, and US Coast Guard as stipulated by the Mortuary Affairs representative. Specific emblems must match illustrations in Figure

10.7 and 10.7.1 of this document.

11. Government Furnished Items.

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

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

11.3 Necessary clothing for remains that can be dressed.

Figure 5.9. DD FORM 2063, Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains.

Figure 10.7 Sample Air Force Emblem

Figure 10.8.1 Military Service Emblems

Figure 1.4.1. Mortuary Officers Inspection of Remains Checklist

Inspection checklist – post autopsy (if required), pre-embalming inspection conducted at the hospital or morgue facility

Yes No

1. Don personal protective equipment (PPE) prior to handling any human remains!

2. Examine the body for any significant markings, the condition of the remains & any potential problem areas that may need extra care & attention from the embalmer. IMPORTANT NOTE: This includes any broken extremities, facial distortions, trauma & post-mortem stain that might need extra care and focus.

3. Contact the contract embalmer to make them aware of the body condition prior to the removal of the remains.

Inspection Checklist – post embalming, but prior to dressing & casketing

1. Don PPE prior to handling any human remains!

2. Have the remains been autopsied as a full post mortem to include the cranial (head) incision and thoracic (chest) “Y” incision? Are the sutures sewn tight and sealed?

3. Inspect the thoracic incision further to see that it has been sealed with mortuary glue and web roll cotton. This prevents further leakage from the incisions.

4. If the remains are not autopsied, was a 6 point injection embalming performed?

The injection sites for a 6 point injection embalming would include the embalmer using any of these sites:

Right & left carotid arteries ( located to the right & left of the trachea) Right & left axillary arteries (located in the armpit) Right & left femoral arteries (located in the inner thigh) Right & left iliac arteries (located in the hip region) Right & left brachial arteries (located approx. 2” above the elbow) Right & left radial arteries (located from a point approx. 1” below and in front of the bend of the elbow to a point over the base of the thumb) Right & left ulnar arteries (located from a point approx. 1” below and in front of the bend of the elbow to a point over the pisiform bone) Right & left subclavian arteries ( the arch of the subclavian is along the ridge of the collar bone)

Yes No N/A IMPORTANT NOTE: It is an Air Force requirement for un-autopsied remains to have a 6-pt injection to ensure maximum distribution and circulation of embalming fluids. Remember, these remains should be embalmed under the premise that there would be a significant delay between embalming & viewing (if possible), due to the shipment & transfer of remains. It is possible that there may be a week or longer delay between the time of death to the time of burial.

5. Check for signs of fluid leakage; the deceased should also be encased in a plastic protective garment known as “union alls.

6. Check the back, legs and feet of the union alls to ensure there is no leakage or moisture; fluid leakage has a tendency to move to the dependent parts of the body and pool. If this is noted, the leakage should be aspirated, sutures must be re-examined and sealed again (if necessary) and dressing re-accomplished.

7. The remains should be clean & dried prior to being dressed in the union alls.

IMPORTANT NOTE: When embalming is accomplished, the internal tissues are chemically treated with fluids that are distributed through the circulatory system. However, ALL measures must be taken to maximize the effects of the embalming by preventing exposure of the external layers of tissue (i.e. skin) to variables that may accelerate the decomposition process. If the remains were in the union alls when leakage occurred and that problem was not immediately identified or remedied, a process known as skin slip would happen, thus hampering the embalming and leaving open the problem rapid decomposition, damage to the uniform, casket interior and most importantly, irreparable damage to the family.

8. Well embalmed remains should ALWAYS feel hard & firm to the touch. You would also detect the odor of chemicals in the air around the body as well as the odor of decomposition. Be sure to trust your instincts and maintain heightened senses during the inspection. Do not be afraid to touch the torso and limbs to note if the remains feel hard. If they feel soft, sponge like or the consistency of crushed ice, this is a sign of tissue gas—IMMEDIATELY ALERT THE EMBALMER.

9. The arterial fluid dilution (a.k.a the arterial chemical injection solution on the performance work statement) should always contain a minimum 3% concentration by volume. The contract embalmer should use 1 gallon of arterial solution to every 50lbs of body weight.

10. To ensure the accuracy of the solution concentration based on the data the contract funeral home provides for form DD 2063 Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains, box h FLUID DILUTION;

use the following formula to ensure the performance work statement is being upheld.

Index x amount of fluid = strength of solution x total volume

To prepare a 3.0% arterial solution using a 30 index fluid, it is necessary to know how much fluid is needed to make a 1 gallon solution of 3% strength:

Example: 30 index x x = 3.0 x 128 ounces of total solution 30x = 384 x = 384/30 x = 12.8 ounces of arterial fluid

11. The thoracic & abdominal cavities should be thoroughly aspirated;

each cavity should be injected with a 30 index cavity fluid with no less than 16 ounces per cavity.

Feature setting

Features are set prior to embalming because the purpose of embalming is to disinfect, restore and preserve the tissue. The chemical composition of embalming fluid affixes the proteins in the tissues and once they have been set in place, challenges present themselves if it is done improperly. While it is not impossible to fix, it is a challenge to fix and re-accomplish mouth closure on an embalmed body. The key is noting any discrepancies to prevent any undue harm to the family. When inspecting remains, it is critical that the mortuary officer closely examine and keep good annotations of their observations.

Yes No N/A

1. Is the member clean shaven?

2. Has their hair been washed? If a cranial post mortem was accomplished, were the sutures cleaned and is it showing signs of residual blood?

3. Are the sutures tight?

4. Are there signs of leakage from the sutures?

5. Did the embalmer use restorative wax/restorative arts to cosmetize the suture?

6. Are there any stray ear/nose hairs that need trimming?

MOUTH CLOSURE

7. The natural setting of the mouth is convex in curvature from corner to corner. It should not look flat, drawn in or puckered

8. Does the mouth have a natural appearance where the weather line matches up?

9. If a mandibular suture is used, check under the chin…