Performance_Work_Statement_(PWS).doc

U. S. Navy Specifications for the Care of Remains Performance Work Statement (PWS) 1.

Purpose and Descriptions of Services

a. The Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, CA. is acquiring services for Mortuary Services for the handing of remains of authorized personnel. The U. S. Navy will award mortuary services contracts only to fully qualified professional funeral directors. The contractor shall provide facilities equipment, licensed personnel, motor vehicles, professional services, supplies, ten (10) death certificates, caskets, urns, outer shipping containers, transportation, and perform hygienic practices as specified in this Performance Work Statement. All mortuaries and funeral homes must be located within a maximum of 50 miles radius from Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton.

b.

These standards are applicable to regular funeral homes and the Port of Entry (POE) Mortuary at Dover, De. And describe the areas of performance and services required to meet the (Navy’s) minimum standard of acceptance for the care of remains of deceased personnel.

Wage Determination: In accordance with Title 29, of the Code of Federal Regulations, Labor Standards for Federal Service Contracts, GSA considers the Service Contract Act (SCA) applies to this task order, applicable Department of Labor Wage Determination attached.

Selected Occupational Code/Wage Category: 99095 - Embalmer

99310 - Mortician

The Contractor is put on notice that regardless of the rate proposed for billing purposes and payment purposes, the Contractor is required by the Department of Labor during contract performance to pay non-exempt employees at least the applicable wage determination rate for the specific area(s), if a specific wage determination(s) exist. If none exists, the Contractor must pay the non-exempt employees at least the salary portion of the applicable rate dictated by the DOL. In addition, the Contractor will be held to the legal guidelines set by the SCA regarding fringe benefits, safe and sanitary working conditions, and notification to employees of minimum compensation allowed, and equivalent federal employee classification wage rates.

2. Mortuary Services a.

Scope.

The contractor shall be responsible for providing professional services of the highest quality to ensure viewing of the remains under optimal conditions. The contractor shall practice hygienic measures that will ensure complete and satisfactory disinfection and sanitation of the funeral establishment. All supplies and technical procedures shall conform to the highest standards and professional techniques acceptable to the funeral service industry.

b.

Processing or Reprocessing Remains

(1) Processing of Remains. The complete preservation (embalming) and disinfection, application of restorative art techniques and cosmetics, dressing or wrapping, casketing, and transportation of remains as directed by the services contracting officer or designee.

(2) Reprocessing of Remains. The inspection of the remains, and correction, of all discrepancies noted regarding preservation of remains. Application of restorative art techniques and cosmetics, dressing and/or wrapping, casketing and transportation of remains as directed by the MAO or designee.

(3) Unidentified Remains. If identification of remains is not officially established, the remains will be placed under refrigeration at 38-40 degrees F (3.3-4.4 degrees C) if mechanical refrigeration is not available within a reasonable distance, ice (bagged) or ice packs will be used in lieu of mechanical refrigeration. Processing

(embalming) shall not be accomplished until remains are released as identified by a responsible official.

(4) Restorative Art. Major restorative art is an integral part of the processing and/or reprocessing of remains. It includes, but is not limited to, rebuilding a large wound area, rebuilding of facial features such as ear, nose, eye, mouth, chin, etc. removal of

(5) Chemical Preservative Preparations Arterial, cavity and other embalming chemicals use in the treatment of all remains will affect the maximum preservation and disinfection of all body tissue including those associated with body cavities (organs).

(6) Standards and Techniques. The contractor must provide hygienic measures that will ensure complete and satisfactory disinfection and sanitation of the funeral establishment. The contractor must provide high quality service and a sufficient number of licensed embalmers to process (embalm) or reprocess remains on a timely basis. In accordance with applicable state regulations, interns (apprentices) may be used to assist the licensed embalmer/ All supplies and technical procedures will conform to standard and professional techniques acceptable to the funeral service industry. Embalmers must utilize any and all techniques available to ensure complete and adequate treatment of remains

3. Classification of Remains. Autopsied (partial or complete) or non-autopsied remains are one of the following types

a. Non-Viewable Remains. Any remains where there exists extreme mutilation, advanced stages of decomposition, severe burn wounds or charring and restoration of viewable exposed tissue surfaces to the known ante mortem appearance of the deceased by restorative art is not possible, e.g., floater, homicidal, suicidal, and major trauma.

b. Viewable Remains. Any remains damaged or undamaged by trauma or disease that can restored to the known ante mortem appearance

4. Treatment of Remains

a. General. Frequently final disposition of processed or reprocessed remains may not affected for a period of 10 days or more, may be transported over long distances or be subjected to hot, humid, condition. At all time the remains must be free of putrefaction and infectious agents. This requires the thorough disinfection and uniform preservation of all body tissues

(1) Pre-Embalming Procedures. The following basic steps will be carried out during processing or reprocessing of all viewable remains and to the extent possible, non-viewable l remains

(a) Washing and Grooming. Remains will be bathed. When remains are to be buried in uniform, grooming will conform to military standards. Fingernails will be cleaned and trimmed. The mouth will be secured closed to form a natural expression.

Proper attention will be given to prevent wrinkling of the eyelids and a sunken appearance of the eyes. Cosmetics will be applied only in the amount necessary to produce natural color and texture.

(b) Wounds and Stains. All incisions, excisions, abrasions, lacerations and burn wounds will be sutured or sealed to prevent leakage. Swollen or distorted features will be reduced to the normal contours enjoyed during life. Postmortem stains will be chemically bleached by applying packs and/or needle infection. Masking cosmetics will be applied to render stains undetectable.

(c) Body Orifices and Injured Tissue. All body orifices will be treated with a disinfectant non-astringent chemical (such as phenyl phenols and iodophors) and then packed with cotton. Bedsores, ulcerated, burned, and necrotic tissue will be treated either by hypodermic injection and/or pack application of deodorizing and preserving chemical.

(d) Insect Treatment. Maggots and other insect larvae will be destroyed and their breeding sites in or on the remains thoroughly treated with an insecticide chemical.

(e) Contractor’s Performance. All remains will be effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved and all offensive odors eliminated before the remains are casketed.

5. Preparation of Remains.

a. General. The U.S. Navy requires that all remains be processed or reprocessed in a manner reflecting the highest standards of the funeral service profession. Remains, viewable and non-viewable, require some variation in the embalming treatment to accomplish the optimum results.

(1) Non-Viewable Remains. In all instances, multi-site infection and drainage technique must be attempted. When arterial infection is possible, each gallon of arterial fluid will have a minimum concentration of 5 percent by volume aldehyde or aldehyde derivative preservative agent(s). The total volume of solution injected will not be less than one gallon per

50 pounds of body weight.

(a) All body areas must be further treated by means of a trocar using undiluted cavity chemicals having a 30 index (%) or greater

(b) Cranial thoracic, and abdominal cavities, if present, will be relieved of gases and distention. The cavities will then be treated by injecting a minimum of 32 ounces of a concentrated cavity chemical, having a 30 index (%) or greater.

(c) When arterial infection or cavity treatment is impossible, all articulated and disarticulate anatomical portions will be thoroughly disinfected and preserved via accessory chemical embalming techniques.

(d) Non-injectable intact remains and /or disarticulated anatomical portions must be immersed or injected, hypodermically, with trocar or syringe and needle, using full strength cavity chemicals 30 index (%) or greater. Surface application of liquid, gel, or dry sanitizer and preservatives is also required to supplement primary needle and hypodermic infection techniques.

(2) Viewable Remains. A thorough pre-embalming analysis will be made for each case to determine the best embalming techniques to obtain optimum results. The technique of arterial injection and venous drainage as well as the need for adding humectants to the arterial solution injected are of utmost importance. Whenever necessary a multi-site arterial injection multisite drainage will be done.

(a) The arterial chemical injection solution will contain a 2 to 3 percent concentration by volume of aldehyde or aldehyde derivative preservative agent(s) with equal parts of a humectants chemical also being added to the injection solution.

(b) The thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic cavities must be thoroughly aspirated and injected with full strength cavity chemicals having a 30-index (%) or greater, using a minimum of 16 ounces for each cavity. The use of needle injections, packs, or other special treatment will be accomplished to assure the preservation and disinfection of all body tissues including those associated with body cavities (organs). Lanolin based (or comparable) massage cream will be applied on the face and hands.

(3) Autopsied Remains. If a partial or complete autopsy has been performed, a 6- point injection with multi-site drainage must be accomplished, using arterial chemical injection solutions as specified for processing viewable remains

(a) Thoracic and abdominal walls must be hypodermically injected using the same strength solution as injected arterially. On thoracic or abdominal autopsies, the viscera will be removed, thoroughly sectioned, and immersed in concentrated cavity chemical having a 30-index (%) or greater.

(b) When a cranial autopsy has performed, the calvarium must be secured and stabilized, replaced over the carvarium and neatly sutured to avoid an unnatural appearance, and the hair must be washed.

(c) The inner surfaces of the body cavities must be given a liberal application of gel preservative, and the organs replace within the cavities and liberally covered with hardening compound.

(4) Treatment of Scalp (Viewable Remains) if the scalp has been shaved because of medical treatment or surgery, processing or reprocessing must be performed as specified for viewable remains, after which the cranium must be wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner.

(5) Mutilated Hands (Viewable Remains) when the hands are mutilated to the point that restoration is not possible the hands shall be treated in a manner which renders all tissue firm, equivalent) in a neat, professional manner or by placing surgical gloves on the hands followed by white (military gloves).

(6) Dressing or Wrapping Remains provided.

(a) Viewable remains will be prepared, cosmetized and dressed in the clothing

(b) Identification tags (military issue, or remains identification body or toe tags) with name, rank, service, and SSN will be placed on the remains)

(c) Non-Viewable remains that cannot be restored, but dressing is possible, must be dressed following treatment and wrapping of non-restorable areas.

(d) Non-Viewable remains that cannot be dressed must be wrapped in the rubber or polyethylene sheeting and blanket furnished by the contracting officer. Each layer of wrapping must have some form of identification to include name, rank, service and SSN or the remains. The wrapping must be accomplished as follows:

1. The military specification blanket shall be spread on the dressing table with opposing corners at head and foot ends of the table. The blanket is then covered with a white cotton sheet followed by a sheet of polyethylene.

2. Two strips of roll type cotton are laid down the center of the plastic sheet and liberally sprinkled with hardening compound.

3. The remains are place on the cotton, coated with hardening compound and covered with an additional layer of cotton.

4. Polyethylene sheet is brought is brought up to wrap around the remains and secured with tape. Name and SSN may be written on the tape.

5. The cotton sheet is brought up, wrapped and secured, may be taped or pinned and identification added.

6. The blanket is wrapped with as few creases as possible and must be secured with large safety pins placed no more than 8 inches apart. Identification (military issue, or remains identification body or toe tags) with name, rank, service, and SSN will be fastened to the blanket.

7. The uniform will be placed on top of the wrapped remains following placement of the remains in the casket.

(7) Embalmer Evaluation

(a) Using DD form 2062 or 2063, the embalmer (contractor’s agent) and the inspector, will complete the embalming treatment section and certify that the services and supplies meet the specification in this appendix in it’s entirely.

any remains called for under this contract are effectively disinfected, uniformly preserved, and will arrive at final or reprocessing destination in satisfactory condition.

(8) Placement in Casket

(a) Remains will be placed in the specified casket in a manner that creates an appearance of rest and composure and prevent shifting during transit.

and cramping.

(b) The casket will be of sufficient size to prevent the appearance of crowding

(c) The pillow will be turned over and a clean sheet of plastic placed between head and pillow.

(d) The casket mattress will be lowered to prevent contact of remains with the lid of the casket.

(9) Quality Assurance Evaluation. Failure to pass the inspector’s evaluation before dressing, after placement of the remains in the casket and before delivery, will require the contractor to remove the remains from the casket and perform one or more of the following as directed by the inspecting official.

(a) Additional disinfectant or preservative treatment

(b) Re-dressing

(c) Change or add decorations or insignia

(d) Placement of remains in a new casket NOTE: When services listed above are performed, services as set forth in paragraphs 5a (6), (7) and (8) must again be accomplished by the contractor.

6. Transportation of Remains

a. Removal of Remains. A suitable removal vehicle, (e.g. hearse, van, station wagon) will be used to transport remains from place of death, or other location designated by the MAO, to the location where processing of reprocessing will be performed.

b. Encasing the Casket. When directed by the inspector, the casket must be carefully and professionally placed in the protective outer shipping container (air tray). All shipping documents will be attached or enclosed according to shipping regulations

c. Loading Remains. the remains are carefully and professionally place the delivery vehicle designated by the contracting officer

d. Delivery of Remains (to include escort). Remains will be transported in the contractor’s funeral coach to a place of religious service, a common carrier, another funeral home, or a

Government, or non-Government cemetery.

e. Delivery to Common Carrier. Remains shipped by common carrier will be delivered to the airport terminal, per requirements of the airline company, not later than 2 hours before scheduled departure or aircraft. Include additional time if the contractor needs to clear security/customs inspection.

f. Employee Attire. Personnel used in transportation of the remains or escort must be dressed professionally in a seasonal suit with shirt and tie.

g. Transfer Case. The reusable metal transfer case will be returned to a location as directed by the contracting officer or designee. The contractor will clean and sanitize the transfer case each time after removing remains from the case.

7. Cremation

a. Viewable. This paragraph identifies services, supplies and transportation requirements for local cremation when recommended by the contracting officer or designee.

(1) Remains must be prepared, cosmetized, dressed and placed in the appropriate casket as specified.

(a) The casket provided must meet or exceed the hardwood casket standards as stated in paragraph 10

(b) At services desertion, an alternative cremation casket may be used if disposition instructions indicate direct cremation.

(2) A tag with the decedent’s name, rank, service, SSN and date of death of death should be attached to the head-end casket handle.

(3) Transportation of the remains (including escort) must be provided to the crematory in sufficient time to ensure cremation is accomplished and the cremains returned to the processing facility or the port mortuary on the same day returned the processing center facility or port mortuary on the same day.

(4) The contracting officer or designee must advise the contractor which urn has been selected by the PADD and the contractor will provide an urn (either solid walnut or solid bronze).

(5) Cremator officials will place the cremated remains in the designated urn as soon as practical following the cremation process. The contractor will return the inured cremated remains to the funeral director.

death.

(6) The urn shall bear the decedent’s name, rank, date of birth and date of

(a.) The specified engraved plate must be affixed to the solid walnut urn.

(b.) The engraved plate may be affixed to the bronze urn or the engraving may be placed directly on the bronze urn in lieu of a brass plate.

b. Non-Viewable Follow the same procedures described in paragraphs 7a (1) through 7a

(6) in addition to the following:

(1) When remains are wrapped, attach tag listing the decedent’s name, rank, SSN and date of death to the top of the blanket.

(2) Attach tag listing the decedent’s name, rank, SSN, and date of death to the casket handle at the head end of the casket.

NOTE: The contractor will pay the cremation charges directly to the crematory. c. Crematory and Cremation Procedures

(1) Scope. This PWS establishes crematory and cremation procedures for remains of members of the U. S. Navy and Marine Corps.

(2) Definitions for the remains.

(a) Authorizing Agent(s) MAO of the military installation caring

(b) Casket. The container in which the human remains will be delivered to, and placed in, the cremation chamber for cremation.

1. Hardwood casket refers to the standard hardwood casket

2. Alternative cremation container may be used at the services discretion, when disposition instructions are for direct cremation.

process is completed.

(c) Cremains. The remaining bone fragments after the cremation

(d) Cremation. The heating process that reduces human remains to none fragments. The reduction takes place through combustion and evaporation

(e) Cremation Chamber. The enclosed space within which the cremation process takes place. Cremation chambers covered by these procedures will be used exclusively for the cremation of human remains.

(f) Crematory Authority. The legal entity or the authorized representative of the legal entity who conducts the cremation chamber.

(g) Cremator or Crematorium. The building that houses the cremation

(h) Holding Facility. An area for the retention of human remains prior to cremation within the crematory facilities that will comply with any applicable public health laws and preserve the dignity of the human remains.

cremation.

(i) Human Remains. The dead human body or portions thereof prior to

(j) Processed Cremains. The end result of pulverization, where the residual from the cremation process is cleaned leaving only none garment reduced to unidentifiable dimensions.

(k) Sealable Container. An appropriate container in which processed cremains can be placed and sealed so as to prevent leakage of remains or the entrance of foreign materials.

(3) Services. The contracted crematory authority will be responsible for providing professional crematory and cremation services. It will comply with all established principles, ordinances, and statutes of applicable agencies and licensing boards of the federal and state governments including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

(a) Pre-Cremation Accomplishment

1. Receipt of Remains. The government contracted funeral service establishment will deliver the casketed remains to the crematory on the same day the cremation must be accomplished.

2. Confirmation of Identification. Upon receipt of the casketed remains at the crematory, confirmation of the identity of the remains will be accomplished by crematory authority. A tag affixed to the casket to the casket handle at the head end of the casket will bear the decedent’s name, rank, social security number, and date of death. This verification will be compared with the documentation accompanying the remains. This verification constitutes adequate identification. In the event the information exhibited on the tag is not in agreement with the documentation accompanying, no cremation will be accomplished until the identification discrepancy is resolved with authorizing agent.

(b) Holding Human Remains for Cremation

1. Holding Facility. When the crematory authority is unable to cremate the human remains immediately upon taking custody thereof, the crematory authority will place the remains in the holding facility.

2. Non-Acceptance for Holding. A crematory authority will not accept for holding any casketed remains with evidence of leakage.

3. Security of Facilities. Holding facilities will be secure from access by anyone other than crematory authority personnel.

(c) Single Cremation

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

2. Identification. Immediately prior to being placed within the cremation chamber, the identification of the human remains will be verified again by the crematory authority. The identification tag from the outside of the hardwood casket will be removed and placed near the cremation chamber control panel until the cremation process is complete.

(d) Processing Cremated Remains

1. Removal from Cremation Chamber. Upon completion of the cremation, all residual of the cremation process will be removed from the cremation chamber and the chamber swept clean. The residual will be placed within a container or tray that ensures against commingling with other cremated remains. The identification tag will be removed from the control panel and attached to the container or tray to await final processing.

2. Final Processing. All residual of the cremation process will undergo final processing. The residual will be manually cleaned of anything other than bone fragments and fragments will be processed, reducing them to unidentifiable dimensions, less than one- eighth inch in size.

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

(e) Packaging of Cremated Remains polyurethane bag.

1. Sealable Container. The cremains will be placed in a sealable

2. Temporary Sealable Container(s). The sealed bag will be place in a temporary container. If the cremains within the sealed bag do not completely full the container, the space will be filled with clean absorbent cotton. I all of the cremains do not fit in the temporary container; the remainder will be placed in a second container. The lid or top of the temporary container(s) will be securely closed (sealed)

3. Boxed Sealable Container. When a temporary container is used to return the processed remains, the container will be place within a corrugated box. All box seams will be taped closed. The outside of the container will be clearly identified with the name, rank, and SSN of the deceased person.

(f) Release of Containerized Cremated Remains. The same day the pressed cremated are containerized, the crematory authority will release/deliver them the representative of the contract funeral service establishment, the MAO, the escort, or other designated individual, as specified.

8. Hygienic Practices

a. Concurrent and Terminal Decontamination and Disinfection. The contractor will employ protective, precautionary, hygienic measures and techniques designed to accomplish and terminal disinfection and decontamination of the entire funeral service establishment of POE mortuary preparation room and shipping area environment. The application of appropriate concentrations of chemical disinfectants (iodophors, phenyl phenols) to body surfaces and offices, instruments, preparation room, floor, walls, and equipment surfaces and general sanitation of pubic visitation areas will help prevent the transmission of pathogens to personnel.

b. Inhalation Protection. The contractor will provide mortuary employees protective, surgical type, oral nasal masks designed to prevent the inhalation of infectious particles originating from the surface, orifices, and cavities of human remains.

c. Public Health Guidelines. Procedural guidelines in the areas of public health, personal hygiene, and safety, as they pertain to the practices of personal and environmental disinfection and decontamination by practitioners of mortuary services are contained.

9. Metal Sealer Caskets

a. Scope. This PWS establishes minimum standards for the regulation, 18 gauge, metal sealer casket. Specifications will meet or exceed the American Funeral Industry’s standards with the following specific requirements for the American Armed Forces.

b. Classification

(1) Standard size 18- gauge metal sealer, cut-top casket. The inside dimensions will 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 panels.

(2) Over the 18-gauge metal sealer, cut-top casket. The inside dimensions will not be less than 81 inches in length, measured between the inner surfaces of the end panels, and

25 inches in width, measured between the inner surfaces of the side panel.

c. Applicable Documents. To the extent specified, the following documents of the issue in effect on the date of invitation for bids or request for proposals form a part of the specification. Copies of specifications and standards required by a bidder in connection with specific procurement function should be obtained from the procuring agency or as directed by the contracting officer.

(1) Federal Specifications. TT-C-490- Cleaning Methods and Pretreatment

Methods of Ferrous Surfaces for Organic Coatings.

(2) Military Standards. MIL-STD-1916-Sampling Procedures and Tables for

Inspection by Attributes.

d. Requirements.

(1) Sample Casket. When specified, a sample completed casket will be made available to the inspecting officer or authorized representative for quality assurance inspection in accordance with appendix. Approval of the sample is acceptance of the casket but does not relieve the contractor responsibility of compliance with all applicable provisions of this specification.

(2) Materials. Material will conform to the applicable specifications and requirements specified below. Tolerance for materials will conform to this specification.

(3) Steel. Sheet steel will be common or standard to that used within the metal casket industry.

(4) Fabric (liner). The construction of this cloth will be: warp, 92 ends-100 denier dull acetate yarn: filling, 52 picks-150 denier dull acetate yarn. The acetate taffeta fabric’s finish will be flat or embossed. The color will be white or ivory.

(5) Unwoven Fabric Material Tissue. The unwoven material for backing the fabric of the lining assemblies will be scrim laminate, white in color, consisting of 3 by 2 ½ nylon scrim with 2 plies of tissue adhesively bonded to each side of scrim.

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

(7) Upholstering

(a) Lining Assemblies. The lining assemblies for the interior of the head panel lid, sides and ends of casket, overlay, mattress spread , pillowcase, two piece top (lid) supports (one piece top (lid) supports will be finished to complement the casket, and the sides of the casket body will be as specified in this appendix, backed with fabric specified in this appendix. The head top will be lined with interior styling. The foot top will be lined with fabric and backing as specified in appendix or may be upholstered by applying a rigid by applying a rigid one piece insert, simulating fabric finish. The assemblies for the lid or head panel, top of the pillowcase, outside exposed body ling, and top side of overthrow will be “Wave Crushed” tufted or shirred. The interior assemblies for the sides and ends of the casket will be tailored or stirred. Before lining the casket, the inside of the shell will be cleaned of all foreign material

(b) Pillow. The pillow, sized to properly fit the casket, will be made of unwoven material specified in this appendix and filled with a minimum of 1 ¼ pounds of the specified filling material. The pillow will then be encase in an outer fabric cover as specified in this appendix.

(c) Mattress. The casket will be equipped with an adjustable inner spring and the mattress is sized to properly fit the casket. The mattress will be made of fabric specified in this appendix, or polyethylene (.004) film and filled with cotton as specified in this appendix or synthetic filling in one piece, such as polyester, or fiberglass, excluding all foam type and excelsior materials. The quantity of mattress fill, if cotton or similar, will be 15-17 pounds. The mattress fill will render a minimum uniform thickness of two inches.

(d) Side Panels. Side panels of the casket body will have padding consisting of similar material used in the pillow, shirting or apron area.

(8) Finish. The color of the casket’s painted finish will be within the range of silvertone to grey. The painted finish may be achieved through one of the two methods.

(a) Baked Synthetic Enamel. All surfaces of metal components will be thoroughly cleaned and given phosphate coating conforming to TT-C-490. A primer will be applied to all exposed surfaces and edges and to the outside of bottom and inside of shell. The primer will be scuff sanded in all exposed view areas. Forced drying may be used. All exterior metal surfaces exposed to view, including surfaces that are exposed to when casket is opened

(not applicable to bottom), will be given an adequate coating of the appropriate color lacquer. All surfaces will then be coated with a clear lacquer to achieve at least the required 2.0 mils dry film thickness. The exposed heads of screws used for assembling the casket will be appropriately finished (plated or painted) to match or compliment the parent metal finish. The finish coat will level out to produce a smooth and uniform flow without orange peel, runs, wrinkles, drops, streaks, or areas of thin film or no film. The casket will be well finished, smooth, clear, and free from defects which may affect the appearance or serviceability.

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

(9) Casket Protective Cover. A paper or plastic casket protective cover, common to the casket industry, will be placed over each casket

e. Construction Design

(1) Sealer Casket. The casket will be 18-gauge U.S. standard steel, with square or round ends and top and bottom molding, and with a painted finish specified in this appendix. The casket may have appropriate shading effect. The handle assembly will continuous fixed bar or swing out type handle. Applied lugs and corners will be plated. The casket will be furnished in the sizes specified in this appendix. As stated in this appendix, the casket will be constructed to yield an airtight seal when closed, which will prevent the escape of odors and leakage.

(a) Body. The casket will be fabricated from steel, 18-gauge in thickness. The top flange will be of the same material and thickness as the body and reinforced to provide sufficient bearing to support lid assemblies. The full length of all mitered joint will be welded.

(b) Bottom Panel. The bottom panel must be of one piece of metal, 18 gauge or thicker with adequate reinforcing edges extending lengthwise or crosswise to meet weight and stress requirements. The entire length and width of the bottom seams must be a continuous weld.

(c) Lid. The casket will consist of a two-pieced (stamped from one piece of metal) cut-top lid with traditional oval panel and top frame (in certain circumstances, the contracting officer ma approve a one-piece lid (full couch) casket). The lid will be fabricated of, 18-gauge in thickness. The bridge between the lids, to accommodate the bridge or cross gasket, will be a full header.

(d) Shell Hardware. Each lid will be hinged with two hinges. Lids will be provided with locking supports for retaining the lids in an open position. Each lid will have two sealer locks (opposing each hinge) lever-operated with non-detachable lever operating handles, a crank-type positive locking system with two locking device engagements on each lid opposing the hinges.

(e) Handle Assembly. The handle assembly will be continuous fixed bar or fixed bar or a swing out handle assembly. The entire handle assembly, bars, lugs, and corners will be fabricated of metal or a combination of metals standard to the metal casket industry. The entire handle assembly will be fastened to the casket body in a manner that will ensure the handle assembly will not rupture or show deformation when tested in accordance with this appendix. The finish applied to the handle assembly’s lugs and corner will be plated in a manner common to the metal casket industry. The fixed bar or swing out handles will be painted or finished to complement the casket.

(f) Perimeter and Bridge or Cross Gasket System. The gaskets will be fabricated from natural rubber, neoprene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), closed cell polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or their equivalent. Gasket corners will mitered and molded and vulcanized (if rubber) or heat sealed (if EVA, PVC).

f. Quality Assurance Provisions

(1) Responsibility for Inspection. Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all inspection requirements specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the contract or order, the contractor may use his own or any facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection requirements specified herein. The Government reserves the right to perform any of the inspections stated in this appendix when such inspection are called for to assure supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements.

(2) Quality Conformance Inspection. Sampling for inspection and acceptance will be performed in accordance with the provisions set forth in MIL-STD 105 and in the contract

(a) Inspection of Materials and Components. Component and materials will be inspected and tested in accordance with all the requirements of this appendix and federal standards unless otherwise exclude, amended, modified, or qualified.

(b) End Item Inspection. The lot will include all caskets offered for inspection at one time. The sample unit for inspection will be one complete casket.

1. Visual Examination. Examination of the caskets will be conducted utilizing the classification of defects set forth in Table H-1

2. Dimension of Examination. Inspection will be made of the finished caskets for dimensions specified. Any non-compliance with specified requirements will constitute a defect.

3. Best Methods

a. Awareness. A vacuum test will be applied to all joints, bottom, gasket and sealing system, and handle assembly for the purpose of detecting leaks for the casket. The test results will be used to determine compliance with appendix.

b. Bottom Deformation Test. The casket will be loaded with a uniformly distributed weight of 350 pounds, the lids closed and locked. The casket will then be attached to a rectangular suspension frame by metal straps at six evenly spaced points along each side handle, as close to hardware attachment points as possible and arranged to produce uniform weight distribution by means of adjusting wedges. The width of the strap around the handle will be three inches. The suspension frame will be lifted until the bottom of the casket has cleared the floor by four inches. Bottom deformation will be measured by placing a straight edge under the casket from the front side to the backside at the casket’s midpoint. The extent of deformation will be the average of two measurement readings taken simultaneously at the edge of the front side and backside of the casket. The readings will be determined by measuring the distance from the bottom of the casket to the top of the straight edge. The casket will remain suspended for a period of 15 minutes and examined for compliance with this appendix.

c. Handle Bend Test, Static Loading. This test will be made in accordance with this appendix, except that the casket will be suspended at two points on each side. These points will be located midway between the lugs toward the ends of the casket. The same test will be performed on the end handles; each end will be lifted separately using two pints of suspension on the end handle. Handles will then be examined for compliance with this appendix.

g. Casket Certification. The contractor will be required to provide a statement that the casket to be furnished for use under the terms of the contract conforms in all details to the minimum specifications contained herein. Extra copies of the specification may be obtained from the contracting officer.

Classification of Metal Casket Defects Table 1

Min or

X

Finish

All exterior metal surfaces exposed to view, including surfaces that are exposed when casket is opened (not applicable to bottom.)

Not within specified range of color.

Orange peel or texture. Area of no film.

Gritty surface or overspray that is rough to touch.

Wet or tacky surface. Any permanent stain or blemish.

Paint on gasket.

Finish dirty, e.g., oil, glue, or other nonpermanent stain.

X

Construction and Workmenship

All components made of metal, rubber, and vinyl, in general (unless otherwise classified herein).

Any functioning assembly that is inoperative, e.g., lid locks will not operate as intended.

Any part loose, e.g., fixed bar is loosely fitted to lug or corner, but bar is adequately retained, or swing out bar bent or fails to swing out smoothly. Any functioning assembly that requires abnormal pressure t operate.

welding.

Weld burned through pits, holes, or fissures present. Outside flash not stripped.

Exposed welded joints not ground and surface

Metal Fasteners

Screws, bolts, nuts, etc.

Any missing, stripped, or otherwise damaged.

Any fastener cocked.

Not specified type fastener. Any component missing or stained.

Any open seam, tear, or material defect Waving or pleating crushed or matted down where it should be affixed.

NOTE(s): (belongs to Table 1 on page 16 - 17)

1. Major Defect – A casket exhibiting one or more major defects will not be used by the contractor.

2. Minor Defect – A casket exhibiting minor defect(s) that can be corrected by the contractor (to the satisfaction of the inspecting official), may be used. A casket exhibiting minor defect(s) that are unable to be corrected to the inspecting official satisfaction will not be used.

10. Hardwood Caskets

a. Scope. This PWS establishes minimum standards for the hardwood casket. Specifications will meet or exceed the American Funeral Industry’s standards with the following specific requirements for the American Armed Forces.

b. Classification

(1) Standard size will be Perfection Cut Half Couch Hardwood Casket. Select hardwoods shall be used throughout the caskets. The hardwood used must be one of the following: poplar, salix (willow) or cottonwood, the thickness of the rough lumber used in the casket must not be less than 4/4 (1-inch) stock. The color will be a walnut satin finish with a rose ran crepe interior. The inside dimensions must 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.

(2) Over size (order to size required). Select hardwood must be used throughout the caskets. The hardwood used must be one of the following: poplar, salix (willow), or cottonwood. Thickness of the rough lumber used in the casket must not be less than 4/4 (1-lnch) stock. The color will be a walnut satin finish with a rose tan crepe interior.

c. Applicable Documents. The issue of the military standard MIL-STD-1916 (Sampling Procedures and Tables of Inspection by Attributes) that is in effect on the date of invitation for bids or requests for proposals forms a part of this armed services specification to the extent specified herein.

d. Requirements

(1) Sample Casket. A sample completed casket will be made available to the inspecting officer or their authorized representatives for quality assurance inspection in accordance with this appendix. The approval of the sample is acceptance of the casket but does not relieve the contractor of responsibilityfor compliance with all applicable provisions of this specification. The pre- furnished samples and the caskets furnished under this contract will be manufactured.

(2) Materials. Materials will conform to the applicable specifications and requirements. Tolerances for materials will conform to this specification.

(3) Woods. Select hardwoods will be used throughout the casket.

(a) The hardwood used in fabricating or constructing the casket will be one of the following: oak, poplar, salix (willow), or cottonwood.

(b) The rough lumbar used in the casket must have a thickness of not less than one inch stock.

(4) Fabric (lining). The construction of this cloth will be as follows: wrap, 92 ends

– 100 denier dull acetate yarn; filling, 92 picks – 150 denier dull acetate yarn. The acetate taffeta fabric’s finish will be flat or embossed. The color will be rose tan.

(5) Unwoven Fabric Material Tissue. The unwoven material for backing the fabric of the lining assemblies will be scrim laminate consisting of 3 by 2 ½ nylon scrim with two plies of tissue adhesively bonded to each side of scrim and white in color.

(6) Upholstery.

(a) Lining Assemblies. The lining assemblies for the interior of the head panel lid, sides and ends of casket, overlay, mattress spread, pillowcase two-piece top (lid) supports (one-piece top (lid) will be finished to complement the casket), and the sides of the casket body will be as specifies in this appendix, backed with fabric specified in this appendix. The head panel will be lined with interior styling. The foot panel will be lined with fabric and backing as specified in this appendix or may be upholstered by applying a rigid one-piece insert, simulating fabric finish. The assemblies for the lid or head panel, top of the pillowcase, outside exposed body lining, and top side of overthrow will be wave rushed, tufted tailored or shirred. The puffing may be shirred or tailored. The Interior assemblies for the sides and ends of casket will be tailored or shirred. Before lining the casket, the inside of the shell will be cleaned of all foreign material.

(b) Pillow. The pillow will be made of unwoven material specified in this appendix, filled with a minimum of 2 1/4 pounds of filling material, and encased in an outer fabric cover as specified in this appendix. The pillow will be sized to properly fit the casket.

(c) Mattress. The casket will be equipped with an adjustable inner spring and a mattress sized to properly fit the casket. The mattress will be made of fabric specified in this appendix or polyethylene (.004) film and filled with cotton as per this appendix, or synthetic filling in one piece, such as polyester, excluding all foam type, excelsior materials, and fiberglass. The mattress fill will render a minimum uniform thickness of two inches.

(d) Side Panels. Side panels of the casket body will have padding consisting of similar material used in the pillow, the skirting or apron area.

(7) Finish. All exposed surfaces of wood components will be thoroughly sanded. A walnut color stain and sealer will be applied to all viewable surfaces and edges. A walnut color stain will be applied to the outside edge of the bottom of the hardwood casket. Exterior wood surfaces, viewable, including surfaces that are exposed when the casket is opened (excludes bottom, will be given an adequate coating of the appropriate finish. The casket will have either a satin or high-gloss appearance following final finishing process. The sealer will be scuff-sanded in all exposed areas. Forced drying may be used. The exposed heads of screws used for assembling the casket will be appropriately finished (plated or painted) to correspond or complement the parent finish. The finish coat will level out to produce a smooth and uniform flow without orange peel, runs, wrinkles, drops, streaks, or areas of thin coating or no coating. The casket will be well finished, smooth, clear, and free from defects that may affect appearance or serviceability.

(8) Casket Protective Cover. A cover common to the casket industry, paper or plastic will be placed over each casket.

e. Construction Design

(1) Hardwood Casket. The casket will be of hardwood, one inch stock and have a ledge and base molds (also commonly known within the hardwood industry as a “stateside” design). The handle assembly will be a swing-out type. Applied hardwood lugs and corners will be finished in the same manner according to this appendix. Metal lugs and corners will be plated in finish.

(a) Body. The casket will be fabricated/constructed from not less than one inch stock hardwood. The ledge will be of the same material as the body and reinforced to provide sufficient support bearing for lid assemblies.

(b) Bottom Panel. The bottom panel will be constructed from hardwood lumber not less than one inch rough hardwood stock. The bottom panel will withstand, at a minimum, a 350 pound load with no deformation when tested according to the appendix. The bottom panel will be appropriately reinforced to meet weight and stress requirements.

(c) Lid. The casket will consist of a two-pieced cut-top lid with traditional oval panel, top frame, and header (the inspecting officer may approve a one-piece lid (full couch) casket in certain circumstances).

(d) Assembly. Accurate tightly mitered joints will be assembled, using joint locks, nails, and glue common to standard industry practices. Exterior surfaces will be sanded to a uniform condition to accept exterior finishing materials. Bottoms will be installed in accordance with industry practices. Top and base moldings before milling will have been at least one inch stock. No trace of screw or nail heads will be visible after finishing.

(e) Shell Hardware. Each lid must be hinged with two hinges each for proper support. Lids must be provided with locking support for retaining the lids in an open position. Each lid must have a positive lock.

(f) Handle Assembly. The handle assembly will be continuous swing out. The entire handle assembly will be fastened to the casket body in a manner that will ensure that the handle assembly will not rupture or show deformation when tested in accordance with this appendix.