Mortuary PWS 2026.pdf

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS) FOR

DOD CONTRACTED MORTUARY SERVICES

Oct 2026

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT FOR DOD

CONTRACTED MORTUARY SERVICES

Contents

1. Introduction

2. Description of Services

3. Classification of Remains

4. Embalming Standards

5. Casketing Standards

6. Transportation of Remains

7. Cremation

8. Facility Standards

9. Health and Safety Standards

10. Records Management and Release of Information

11. Funeral Home Pre-Contract Award Procedures

12. Crematorium Facilities Pre-Contract Award Procedures

13. Service Delivery Summary

14. Government Furnished Items

15. Contractor Furnished Items

16. Appendices

Appendix A – Commercial Item Descriptions

Appendix B – Classification of Defects

B1. Classification of Metal Casket Defects

B2. Classification of Hardwood Casket Defects

B3. Classification of Metal Urn Defects

B4. Classification of Hardwood Urn Defects

Appendix C – First-aid Kits and Required Supplies

Appendix D – Funeral Home Pre-Award Survey Plan

Appendix E – Crematorium Pre-Award Survey Plan

Appendix F – Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

1. Introduction

This PWS establishes the DOD mortuary specifications for operation funeral homes under contract for DOD mortuary services, and will apply to all Service components. The Defense

Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) includes clauses unique to the procurement of mortuary services (DFARS 252.237, Sections 7000 through 7009 and 7011).

Contracting Officers must utilize the standards contained herein when contracting for mortuary services. The standards contained herein are not applicable to deaths where the person authorized to direct disposition (PADD), or where the person with authority to effect disposition (PAED), elects to make all arrangements for the disposition of remains.

2. Description of Services

2.1. Purpose: The 19th Contracting 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, transportation and perform hygienic practices 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. The contractor will work within their licensing authority or within the DoD PWS, whichever is more stringent.

2.2. Authorized Personnel

2.2.1. The preparation of human remains for final disposition shall be performed with regard to the confidentiality of the deceased and the wishes of the family. The following types of personnel may be authorized by management to be present in the preparation room while human remains are being embalmed, washed, or otherwise prepared for final disposition.

2.2.1.1. Licensed embalmers and unlicensed assistants as defined in this document;

2.2.1.2. Licensed and registered interns/apprentices/students as defined by state licensing boards;

2.2.1.3. Public officials or representatives in the discharge of their official duties; and

2.2.1.4. Licensed medical personnel.

2.2.2. Contracted licensed funeral homes may work with family and friends of the deceased to allow their participation in washing and dressing of the body in a private location other than the preparation room of the funeral home if their state law allows accommodating religious practices.

2.2.3. Licensed Embalmer: For the purposes of this document, a licensed embalmer is a person licensed by a state board or certified by a funeral service board as an embalmer or as an embalmer intern or apprentice. A licensed embalmer is required for the application or injection of an embalming chemical solution. The application or injection of an embalming chemical solution is required for the following embalming procedures and requires a licensed embalmer: 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. A licensed embalmer and a licensed intern or apprentice must follow the terms of the licensing authority or certification board of the state that issued the license or certificate. The

Military Service is responsible for verifying the mortuary director and embalmers have valid licensure to perform the tasks required for their position. The licensure will be reviewed at least annually and upon initial assignment. The director and embalmers are responsible for maintaining current licenses per their state licensing authority. Licensed embalmers will complete the Continuing Education Unit (CEU) requirements set by their state. No DoD employee will perform embalming, to include the application of chemicals externally, internally, or both, unless they possess a current license to embalm from a state licensing authority.

2.2.4. Unlicensed Assistant: The use of unlicensed personnel to assist an embalmer or funeral director is only authorized as specified in this document. Contract funeral homes must comply with applicable federal, state, local, or jurisdiction laws in which the contract funeral home is located when using unlicensed personnel to assist the embalmer or funeral director in the performance of their duties. Contracted facilities may use interns

(apprentices) per applicable state regulations. An unlicensed assistant may not perform any tasks identified in Paragraph 2.2.3. and any other tasks prohibited by the state of the licensee responsible for the preparation of the remains. The utilization of unlicensed assistants for the preparation of remains will be at the discretion of the licensee.

2.3. Time allotted for Services

2.3.1. Time allotted to initiate services: The contractor will furnish the materials ordered and perform the services specified by the contracting officer or designee as promptly as possible. The contractor will initiate the services not later than 24 hours after receiving notification to remove the remains, or after the remains have been released to U.S.

Government control, excluding the time necessary for the Government to inspect and check the results.

2.3.2. Time allotted to perform services: The time allotted to perform embalming and restoration work shall be based on the condition of the remains and procedures necessary to restore the remains to a condition that facilitates viewing and on the volume of work at the facility. At no time will preset time restrictions be placed on the amount of time a contract embalmer can take to restore remains to a viewable state. NOTE: It is not unreasonable to expect an embalmer to spend several hours suturing extensive amounts of lacerations and wounds or working to restore the head/face to a condition that facilitates viewing. However, the contracted facility will notify the Military Service Mortuary Affairs

Office if the procedure is expected to take more than 24 hours to complete (this does not include post-embalming surveillance). The Military Service Mortuary Affairs Office will keep the PADD or PAED informed on the time required to prepare the remains. The mortuary case file will be updated to reflect when the time required to prepare the remains exceeds the 24-hour time limit.

2.4. Hours of Operation for the contracted funeral home are in accordance with the contractor’s established business hours. The Government may request the contractor to initiate work outside of the contractor’s established business hours due to extenuating circumstances

(e.g. late/early arrival of aircraft carrying remains for dignified arrival).

2.5. Area of performance: The area of performance is determined by geographic boundaries.

The mortuary services contract applies to the resourced services required by the Military

Services. The other determining factor is whether transportation charges for removal or delivery of the remains may be incurred. (See DFARS 252.237-7004.)

2.6. Quality Control and Quality Assurance

2.6.1. Quality Control Plan: The contractor shall have an effective Quality Control Plan

(QCP) to ensure the facility meets approved standards and the services are performed per contract requirements. The contractor shall provide the QCP to the contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR) for acceptance not later than 30 calendar days after award. The COTR will notify the contractor of acceptance or required modifications to the plan. The contractor shall make appropriate modifications and obtain acceptance of the plan within 30 calendar days from the date of the award. The QCP shall include the following minimum requirements.

2.6.1.1. Contract and task order number;

2.6.1.2. Description of processes and controls used to verify acceptable performance;

2.6.1.3. The contractor-developed metrics used to verify the performance level of each task order objective;

2.6.1.4. The metrics reported as a quantitative value (%, ˃, ˂, etc.) and the definition and numerical figures used to calculate the percent or reportable outcome;

2.6.1.5. The task order objectives, associated standards, metrics, and quantitative values for each metric shall be reported per the PWS;

2.6.1.6. Description of the methods to be used for identifying and preventing defects in the quality of service performed;

2.6.1.7. Description of the records to be kept to document inspections and corrective or preventative actions taken; and

2.6.1.8. The frequency of surveillance and minimum acceptable defect rate(s).

2.6.2. Quality Assurance Plan: The Government will evaluate the contractor’s performance for the contract and task/delivery orders awarded. For those tasks listed in this PWS, the COTR or other designated evaluator will follow the method of surveillance specified. Government personnel will record all surveillance observations. When an observation indicates defective performance, the COTR or other designated evaluator will require the contractor manager or representative at the site to initial the observation. The initialing of the observation does not necessarily constitute concurrence with the observation. It acknowledges that the contractor was made aware of the noncompliance.

Government surveillance of tasks not listed in the PWS or by methods other than those listed in the PWS (such as provided in the inspection clause) may occur during the performance period of this task order. Such surveillance will be performed according to standard inspection procedures or other task order provisions. Any action taken by the contracting officer as a result of surveillance will be in accordance with the terms of the contract or task orders.

2.6.2.1. The Government reserves the right to perform inspections to ensure facilities, supplies, and services conform to approved and prescribed requirements as outlined in this document. The goods and services purchased from the contracted facility will meet or exceed the standards contained within this document. Caskets and urns must meet the requirements of DFARS 225.1.

2.7. Physical Security: The contracted facility providing mortuary services will be secure, and areas where remains are received, stored, or processed will not be accessible to the public. If the contracted facility has the ability for the family to view the remains, this area will be clean and orderly and will conform to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for viewing remains. The contracted facilities must have controlled access with appropriate signage posted on all entrances that complies with OSHA standards, applicable laws, regulations, ordinances, and codes.

3. Classification of Remains

3.1. General: The embalmer will make a recommendation to the Military Service representative regarding the ability to view the deceased. Remains will be classified in one of three categories: viewable, viewable for identification, or nonviewable. Every attempt will be made to restore remains to a natural form and color that permits the PADD or PAED to decide whether the remains are to be viewed or not. The cultural and religious customs and traditions of the deceased, as well as the PADD’s or PAED’s preferences, should be taken into consideration for the remains preparation.

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 natural color and form. The condition of remains allows for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD or PAED.

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

PAED.

3.1.3.1. HEAD WRAP. Remains are categorized as nonviewable with the face or head having severe trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration such that restoration to a condition of viewable recognition is not possible. However, the condition of remains allows for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD or PAED. The head wrap will be accomplished as directed by Paragraph 4.4.4.

3.1.3.2. FULL BODY WRAP. Remains are categorized as nonviewable. Remains may not be intact or may have sustained severe trauma, edema, dehydration, advanced decomposition, or discoloration where restoration to a condition of viewable recognition is not possible and the remains cannot be dressed. In this situation, remains will be prepared using a full-body wrap. The full-body wrap will be accomplished as directed by Paragraphs 4.4.2. and 4.4.3.

4. Embalming Standards

4.1. General: The contractor will prepare and embalm the remains of all entitled personnel per the written instructions of the PADD/PAED and per law. The embalmer will verify

PADD/PAED elections before beginning the preparation and embalming of the remains. No remains will be embalmed without written or oral instructions as outlined below. Oral instructions may be accepted if confirmed by the Military Service Casualty or Mortuary

Affairs Office representative; however, follow-on written authorization must be obtained before the release of the remains, subsequent remains, or organ(s) collected at autopsy and released for disposition. The mortuary officer will note in the case file who provided the oral instructions and when (date and time) they were provided. The written authorization will be obtained at the first reasonable opportunity and uploaded into the case file. Predeath directives authorizing embalming, duly executed by the deceased, shall be given full legal effect and shall constitute an effective authorization to embalm. Human remains prepared by the contractor 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. Please refer to DD Form 3045.

4.1.1. Insect Treatment. Maggots and other insect larvae will 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 will 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, e.g., the face and hands.

4.1.4. 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 at the discretion of the embalmer.

4.1.5. 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. All excised tissues will be retained with the remains and not disposed of as medical waste. The excised tissue will be treated with the organs and placed in the body cavity.

4.1.5.1. Preventing Leakage. All lacerations, penetrating wounds, and autopsy incisions will be sutured closed to prevent leakage. In cases where there has been a significant loss of tissue due to dismemberment, blast damage, or charring and the tissue is unable to be closed, the embalmer will ensure exposed tissue is thoroughly embalmed, dried, and packed with drying powders, and secured with an absorbent material to prevent leakage and facilitate dressing in uniform or clothing provided by the PADD or PAED.

4.1.5.2. General full-body wrap guidance. The use of full-body wraps as prescribed in this document will be utilized as a last resort in cases where viewing is not recommended (e.g., severe charring of the upper torso and head, decapitation of the head, severe crushing of the head, uncontrolled odor caused by decomposition, etc.).

The DoD facility or contractor cannot justify the use of full-body wrap to only prevent leakage or address missing limbs. There are procedures and supplies available for use by the preparing embalmer to prevent the leakage of bodily fluids onto the uniform and address missing limbs.

4.1.5.3. Communication required with full-body wrap. The recommendation for the use of a full-body wrap must be a collaborative effort between the embalmer and

Service liaison or case manager. Whenever possible, the Service liaison/case manager must view the remains and discuss preparation procedures with the contract embalmer so they can effectively communicate the condition of remains and reason for the recommendation of a full-body wrap with the PADD or PAED. The final decision for the use of the full-body wrap in circumstances as described in Paragraph 4.1.5.2. rests with the signatory on the contract for DoD mortuary services provided by the civilian mortuary facility. All communication among the preparing embalmer, Service liaison/case manager, and the PADD or PAED shall be documented in writing and entered in the appropriate mortuary case file.

4.1.6. Dressing Remains. The PADD or PAED will be consulted and provided the opportunity to determine the clothing in which the deceased is to be dressed, or to be displayed upon the top of wrapped remains, as the situation dictates. The contract funeral home will be provided the clothing selected by the PADD or PAED or will be provided a uniform by the Military Service. Before dressing, all remains will be placed in a white, opaque, or clear leakproof protective undergarment (one-piece plastic garment used to cover the entire body from the neck down, including the feet). Drying powder and/or preservative powders will be placed inside the protective undergarment to absorb any possible leakage or odors. Viewable remains will be dressed in the clothing provided by the Service mortuary representative.

4.1.7. Grooming. Military personnel who are dressed in their Service uniform will be groomed per Military Service regulations and standards. Male facial and scalp hair shall be washed and groomed to conform to military standards; suitable hair preparation shall be accomplished for females to conform to military standards. If the PADD or PAED requests other accommodations, the contractor will consult with the appropriate Military

Service to ensure compliance with Service standards. Fingernails shall be cleaned and trimmed. When the PADD or PAED has requested that the Service member not be dressed in the Service uniform, the mortuary representative will check with the PADD or PAED to determine the correct attire. For nonmilitary personnel, the Military Service mortuary representative will check with the family to ascertain personal preferences.

4.1.8. 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 unless expressly requested otherwise in writing by the PADD or PAED.

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

4.1.10. Semblance of limbs. The contract funeral home will not undertake the creation of the semblance of limbs without express written authorization on a DOD, Service, local, or civilian mortuary equivalent form, from the person with authority to direct or effect disposition. A copy of the written authorization will be placed in the deceased's casualty/mortuary file.

4.2. Preparation of Unembalmed Remains. When the PADD or PAED has requested the deceased be prepared for shipment to the receiving funeral home without embalming, the contractor will evaluate the condition of the remains and determine the feasibility of complying with the request based upon local and national regulations or laws at the place of origin and destination and any restrictions imposed by available transportation methods, such as air, train, or hearse. Unless prohibited by law, regulation, or the availability of transportation options, the preparing contractor will prepare unembalmed remains per Paragraphs 4.1.1.

through 4.1.9., above, and to the extent possible, will adhere to religious preparation practices or other preferences as directed by the PADD or PAED. This section applies to subsequent remains recovered and identified after mortuary processing or interment or inurnment has occurred.

4.3. Preparation of Viewable Remains

4.3.1. General: 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. Case analysis is an iterative process that continues throughout the embalming operation. The embalmer will adjust the embalming treatment as case analysis dictates to include multiple site injection, if necessary, to ensure maximum disinfection and preservation. Post-embalming surveillance is crucial to ensure all areas are disinfected and preserved, or, if deficiencies are discovered, treated with further chemical treatment to ensure disinfection and preservation. 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. 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 place 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 (percent) 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 the preservation of contents of the cranial cavity, having a 36-index (percent) or greater. Hypodermic injections, packs, or other special treatments shall be accomplished, as required, to ensure the disinfection and preservation of all body tissues. A suitable cream or lotion shall be applied on the face and hands to prevent dehydration.

4.3.2. 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 neatly and professionally wrapped with gauze or equivalent. The Military Service retains the ability to use an authorized uniform hat or beret instead of gauze wrap. For remains requiring a partial head wrap, the remains will be prepared per Paragraph 4.4.4. The embalmer will ensure the tissue is firm, dry, and thoroughly preserved. The wrapping will be accomplished per Paragraph 4.4.4. but will be limited to covering the affected area of trauma, providing the possibility of viewing if desired by the PADD or PAED.

4.3.3. 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 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.

4.3.4. 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 antemortem or postmortem stains. On viewable areas, masking cosmetics may be used to render stains/discolorations nondetectable.

4.3.5. 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.

4.3.5.1. 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).

4.3.5.2. 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.

4.4. Preparation of Nonviewable Remains

4.4.1. General: To obtain optimum results, a thorough pre-embalming case analysis will be completed. Case analysis is an iterative process that continues throughout the embalming operation. The embalmer will adjust the embalming treatment as case analysis dictates to include multiple site injection, if necessary, to ensure maximum disinfection and preservation. Post-embalming surveillance is crucial to ensure all areas are disinfected and preserved, or, if deficiencies are discovered, treated with further chemical treatment to ensure disinfection and preservation. Each gallon of arterial fluid shall contain a minimum 10 percent concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s), with the exception for those remains determined to be a head wrap only according to paragraph 3.1.3.1. The embalmer may choose to use a 5 percent concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s), for preservation of the body only and with a restricted cervical injection, if necessary, and 10 percent concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s), to treat the head.

4.4.1.1. Preservation treatment. 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 utilizing a hypodermic injection using undiluted cavity chemicals having a 36-index (percent) or greater concentration. In addition, packs, special gels, and/or dry sanitizers shall be used, as required, to ensure preservation, prevent leakage, and eliminate all offensive odors.

4.4.1.2. Cavity and genital treatment. 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. Injected cavity chemical must have a 36-index (percent) or greater concentration.

4.4.1.3. Procedure when arterial injection and/or cavity treatment is not possible.

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 of a 36-index (percent) or greater concentration, is acceptable. Surface application of liquid, gel, or dry sanitizers and preservatives is also required to supplement primary needle and/or hypodermic injection techniques.

4.4.2. Nonviewable with full-body wrap. Remains that have been processed or reprocessed as outlined in Paragraph 4.3. or 4.4. and are mutilated, decomposed or have physical trauma to the extent that the remains cannot be dressed shall be wrapped.

4.4.2.1. Preparation for full-body wrap. Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows:

Polyethylene sheeting (5 millimeters or greater) and a wool blanket shall be furnished by the Military 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 a 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). NOTE: 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.

4.4.2.2. Dorsal side preparation. The dorsal side of the remains shall be liberally coated with a gel preservative followed by a liberal coating of drying compound

(hardening compound), and then laid on top of the prepared wrapping material on the dressing table.

4.4.2.3. Ventral side preparation. The ventral side of the remains shall be liberally coated with a gel preservative followed by a liberal coating of drying compound

(hardening compound).

4.4.2.4. Strips, sheeting, and blanket preparation. Additional cotton strips shall completely cover the remains. The polyethylene sheet is then folded around the remains per Paragraph 4.4.2.1. The folding of the polyethylene sheeting, white cotton sheet, and wool blanket shall be uniform, with the head and foot ends folded in first.

4.4.3. Full-body wrap procedure. 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 (See 4.4.2.1. for materials that may be used).

The white cotton sheet is then wrapped around the polyethylene- sheathed remains and secured with large safety pins (silver in color, 2 to 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 (silver in color, 2 to 3 inches) 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 that have been processed or reprocessed as outlined in Paragraph 4.4.2. will be draped in the clothing provided by the Military Service mortuary representative.

4.4.4. Nonviewable head wrap. Before beginning the wrapping process, all tissue and hair shall be rendered as dry as possible. 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.

4.4.4.1. Materials. Required materials to accomplish the head wrap process include:

two clear or semitransparent plastic (0.78 millimeter or greater) liner bags approximately 24 inches by 23 inches; 2-inch white surgical tape or 2-inch clear strapping tape; 12 yards of 4.5-inch (sterile or nonsterile) gauze bandage

(approximately three rolls); cotton prep towels (sterile or nonsterile); and absorbent cotton or an absorbent sheet product.

4.4.4.2. Procedure. Wrapping shall be completed as follows: The embalmer will place one clear or semitransparent bag over the head and tuck it down into the full-body plastic garment, as required in Paragraph 4.1.6. The embalmer will ensure all air is removed from the bag before securing the bag 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 semitransparent bag over the head and repeat the above steps, taking care not to lose the shape of the facial features if present. A minimum of three strips of gauze bandage will be prepared, side by side, overlapping one-quarter 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 the gauze bandage roll. Once secure, the gauze bandage will be wrapped around the head, overlapping the previous row of bandages by one-half the width of the gauze bandage.

This ensures no visibility of the underlying plastic bag and presents 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 will then be dressed as described in Paragraph 4.1.6., ensuring no tape is visible above the collar of the shirt or blouse. Trauma that is isolated to a specific area will be neatly and professionally wrapped with gauze or equivalent.

4.5. Preparation of Autopsied Remains. If a partial or complete autopsy is performed, chemical injection and application with multisite drainage shall be accomplished, using the arterial chemical solutions requirements as specified in Paragraph 4.3. or 4.4. 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. The scalp will be injected by syringe and needle with the chemical solution used for the arterial injection.

4.5.1. Internal organs (viscera). 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 (percent) or greater concentration, for an appropriate amount of time but typically a minimum of two hours. The inner surfaces of the body cavities shall be given a liberal application of gel formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s). 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.

4.5.2. Cranial cavity and scalp. 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. NOTE: If the autopsy is a partial autopsy on the cranium only, treat the cranium and calvarium as above and prepare the cranium contents according to 4.5.1. and wrap in accordance with

4.4.2.1. for discrete placement in the casket.

4.6. Embalmer Evaluation. The contracted facility embalmer processing or reprocessing the remains shall critically evaluate the completed treatment to ensure all remains are effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved, and will arrive at their destination in excellent condition.

The Military Service mortuary representative will authorize delivery or shipment of remains from a contracted facility when assured that the services and supplies furnished by the contractor, including the signed DD Form 2062 (Record of Preparation and Disposition of

Remains Outside CONUS) or the signed DD Form 2063 (Record of Preparation and

Disposition of Remains, Contracted Mortuary Facility), meet the PWS, DoD standards within this document, and commercial item descriptions in their entirety.

4.7. Quality Assurance Evaluation

4.7.1. Remains will be inspected after embalming, after dressing, and after placement of remains in a casket. 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 contracting officer or designee: additional disinfectant or preservative treatment, re-dressing or rewrapping, or placement of remains in a new casket when the original casket is defective.

4.7.2. Corrective action. When the Military Service mortuary representative directs corrective action under this paragraph, the contractor shall perform the corrective measures and other required services again at no additional cost to the Government.

5. Casketing Standards

5.1. General. Casket specifications are provided in Appendix A. Caskets will meet the specifications outlined and will be checked for defects (Appendix B) before casketing of remains. Defective caskets will not be used by the contracted facility providing DoD mortuary services.

5.2. 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 and folded over the top of the hands, for transit, to ensure cosmetics are not transferred onto the uniform or clothing, or casket interior. When white gloves are utilized, no plastic is required for 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 contractor will notify the Military Service mortuary representative.

6. Transportation of Remains

6.1. General.

6.1.1. Unembalmed remains. When unembalmed remains are transported, they shall be wrapped in a polyethylene sheet that is impervious to liquids, covered in such a manner that the body cannot be viewed, encased in a secure pouch, and placed on a cot, stretcher, or rigid tray and carried feet first. When unembalmed remains are transported by air, the remains will be placed in a transfer case after being placed in a secure pouch.

6.1.2. Embalmed remains. When embalmed remains are transported, they must be enclosed in a casket or alternative container and an appropriate outside shipping container

(as applicable). All applicable regulations and policies of the jurisdiction and carrier must be followed.

6.1.3. Remains movement and transportation vehicle. The deceased must be transported in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Military Service Casualty and Mortuary Affairs Office in a manner that promotes respect for and preserves the dignity of the deceased and shields the remains from being viewed from outside of the conveyance. The capacity of the transportation vehicle must be sufficient to permit loading and unloading of the remains without excessive tilting of the cot, stretcher, rigid tray, casket, alternative container, or cremation container, and to allow the remains to remain in a horizontal position during transport. The remains will be secured to prevent the remains or container from excessive movement within the conveyance during transport.

6.1.4. The contractor's funeral coach or first-call vehicle must be clean, properly maintained without visible defects, and in compliance with applicable State Department of Transportation requirements.

6.1.5. The contractor will register and comply with Transportation Security

Administration requirements for shipment of human remains.

6.2. State, Territory, Local, or International Authority-issued Permits and Certificates

6.2.1. Transit, burial, cremation permits, and certificates. The contracted facility representative will obtain the necessary permits, licenses, and documentation issued by the appropriate authority to remove, inter, cremate, or transport remains (e.g. Burial/Transit

Permits, a medical examiner cremation authorization certificate, or a cremation certificate) and provide two copies to the Service mortuary representative at the time the remains are inspected and accepted by the Service mortuary representative.

6.2.2. Death certificates. The contracted facility representative will submit the necessary information and documents to the appropriate authority authorized to issue death certificates.

6.2.2.1. The contracted facility representative will obtain 15 certified copies of the final death certificate from the issuing authority and will provide them to the Military

Service mortuary representative or the Military Service Mortuary Affairs Office within

10 business days of issuance. The Military Service mortuary representative or the

Military Service Mortuary Affairs Office will provide certified copies of the death certificate to the family per policy and Service regulations.

6.2.2.2. In the event a supplemental or amended death certificate is issued, the contracted facility representative will provide 10 copies of the supplemental/amended death certificate to the Military Service mortuary representative or the Military Service

Mortuary Affairs Office within 10 business days of issuance. The Military Service mortuary representative or the Military Service Mortuary Affairs Office will provide certified copies of supplemental/amended death certificates to the family per policy and Service regulations.

6.2.3. The preparing facility representative will provide two copies of any other official document(s) issued in conjunction with the death to the Service mortuary representative or the Service Mortuary Affairs Office.

6.3. Removal. Transport remains in a funeral coach, or appropriate first-call vehicle, from the place where death occurs, from where remains are released by convening medical authority, or from any place designated by the Service mortuary representative to the place where processing, reprocessing, or cremation is to be performed.

6.4. Employee Attire. Personnel providing any transportation of casketed/inurned 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.

6.5. Overland Transportation of Casketed Remains.

6.5.1. Remains will be transported in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Military Service mortuary representative or Mortuary Affairs Office to a place designated by the PADD or PAED. This may include delivery directly to a common carrier, the receiving funeral home, or a government or nongovernment cemetery. The vehicle carrying the remains shall arrive at the designated location at the time specified by the Military Service mortuary representative.

6.5.2. Preparing for transport.

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

6.5.2.2. The casketed remains will be placed feet first in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Military Service mortuary representative or

Mortuary Affairs Office. For authorized personnel, the casket will be flag-draped before transport.

6.6. Overland Transport of Noncasketed Remains.

6.6.1. Subsequently identified remains will be transported in a funeral coach or other appropriate vehicle authorized by the Military Service mortuary representative or

Mortuary Affairs Office. When remains are transferred to a crematorium, the cremation container will be accompanied by a flag, when authorized, during the movement.

6.6.2. Cremated remains will be delivered to the designated location as directed by the

PADD or PAED. When authorized an escort, the inurned remains will be transported in a government-provided vehicle (i.e., Government-owned vehicle or appropriate government-provided rental vehicle).

6.7. Transportation of Remains on a Common Carrier.

6.7.1. Preparing for transport.

6.7.1.1. 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 before being placed in the air tray.

(See Appendix A for information on the air tray.)

6.7.2. Remains shipped by common carrier will be delivered to the airport, in compliance with 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 Military Service mortuary representative or Mortuary Affairs Office.

6.8. Sheltering of Remains. All remains awaiting final disposition shall be kept in an appropriate holding facility or preparation and embalming room. The holding facility must be secure from access by anyone except the authorized personnel of the contractor; it must preserve the dignity and integrity of the human remains and protect the health and safety of the personnel working in the facility. Unembalmed remains will be sheltered in refrigeration until embalmed or released for final disposition. The unembalmed remains will be stored at a temperature between 36 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce decomposition. The Government may, at no additional charge, require the contractor to hold the remains for an additional period to accommodate the movement of escorts and/or family members.