PWS Mortuary Services.pdf

Solicitation Number

Performance Work Statement (PWS) For

Mortuary Services

Mountain Home AFB (MHAFB), ID

21 June 2023

Table of Contents

1. General

1.1. Description of Services/Introduction

1.2. Background

1.3. Scope: Mortuary Services

1.3.1. Time Allotted to Initiate Services

1.3.2. Time Allotted to Perform Services

1.3.3. Area of Performance

1.4. Period of Performance

1.5. General Information

1.5.1. Quality Control

1.5.2. Quality Assurance:

1.5.3. Recognized Holidays:

1.5.4. Place of Performance:

1.5.5. Type of Contract:

1.5.6. Contracting Officer Representative (COR):

1.5.7. Identification of Contractor Employees:

1.5.8. Data Rights:

2. Definitions and Acronyms

2.1. Definitions

2.2. Acronyms

3. Contractor Furnished Items and Responsibilities:

3.1. General

4. Specific Tasks:

4.1. Authorized Personnel:

4.1.1. Licensed Embalmer:

4.1.2. Unlicensed Assistant:

4.2. Classification of Remains Standards

4.2.1. General:

4.2.2. Viewable:

4.3. Embalming Standards

4.3.1. General:

4.3.2. Dressing Remains:

4.3.3. Grooming:

4.3.4. Cosmetics:

4.3.5. Setting Features:

4.4. Preparation of Un-embalmed Remains:

4.5. Preparation of Viewable Remains:

4.5.1. General:

4.5.2. Treatment of Scalp (Viewable Remains):

4.5.3. Mutilated Hands (Viewable Remains):

4.5.4. Wounds, stains, and discolorations:

4.6. Preparation of Non-viewable Remains

4.6.1. General

4.6.2. Non-viewable with Full Body Wrap: Wrapped Remains

4.6.3. Full-body Wrap Procedure

4.6.4. Non-viewable Head Wrap

4.7. Preparation of Autopsied Remains:

4.7.1. Internal Organs (Viscera)

4.7.2. Cranial Cavity and scalp

4.8. Embalmer Evaluation:

4.9. Quality Assurance Evaluation:

4.9.1 Contracted Facility

4.9.2. Corrective Action

5. Casketing Standards

5.1. General

5.2. Placement in Casket

6. Transportation of Remains

6.1. General:

6.1.1. Un-embalmed Remains

6.1.2. Embalmed remains

6.1.3. Remains movement and transportation vehicle

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

6.2.1. Transit, Burial, Cremation Permits and Certificates

6.2.2. Death Certificates

6.3. Removal:

6.4. Employee Attire:

6.5. Overland transportation of casketed remains:

6.5.1. Preparing for transport

6.6. Overland Transport of Non-Casketed Remains:

6.7. Transportation of Casketed Remains on a Common Carrier:

6.8. Sheltering of Remains:

7. Cremation

7.1. Facility Pre-Inspection:

7.2. Payment for Cremation Services:

7.3. Remains for Cremation:

7.3.1. Subsequent Remains – PADD/PAED Disposition

7.3.2. Subsequent remains - Military Service disposition

7.3.3. Cremation of Unidentified Subsequent Portions

7.4. Crematorium and cremation procedures:

7.4.1. Receipt and verification of remains within the cremation container at the crematorium

7.4.2. Sheltering of remains for cremation

7.4.3. Remains Accountability

7.4.4. Processing Cremated Remains

7.4.5. Inurnment of cremated remains

7.4.6. Release of cremated remains

7.4.7. Release Documentation

8. Facility Standards

8.1. General:

8.1.1. Minimum Requirements – General

8.1.2. Minimum Requirements – Plumbing Connections

8.1.3. Minimum Requirements – Lighting and Ventilation

8.1.4. Minimum Requirements – Flooring, walls, ceiling, doors, and windows

8.1.5. Minimum Requirements – Equipment and Supplies

8.1.6. Minimum Requirements – Access and Privacy

8.1.7. Minimum Requirements – Sanitary conditions and permitted use

8.1.8. Minimum Requirements – Waste disposal

8.1.9. Minimum Requirements – Signage

8.1.10. Maintenance

9. Health and Safety Standards

9.1. General

9.2. Required Plans and Programs

9.3. Housekeeping Plans and Maintenance:

10. Records Management and Release of Information

10.1. General:

10.2. Photographic Records and Practices

11. Applicable Publications (Current Editions)

Appendix A - Commercial Item Descriptions

A1. Commercial Item Description

Appendix B- Classification of Defects

B.1. Classification of Metal Casket Defects

B.2. Classification of Metal Urn Defects

B.3. Classification of Hardwood Urn Defects

Appendix C- First Aid Kits and Required Supplies

C.1. Maintenance and Inspection

C.2. Marking and Labeling

C.3. Sources for More Information

1. General.

This is a non-personal services agreement to provide mortuary services to Mountain Home Air Force Base (MHAFB). The Government will not exercise any supervision or control over the contractors performing the services herein. Service providers shall be accountable solely to the contractor who, in turn, is responsible to the Government. This document provides a description of services for use by both Department of Defense (DoD) Mortuary Facilities and funeral homes contracted by DoD to provide mortuary services.

1.1. Description of Services/Introduction.

The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform mortuary services as defined in this Performance of Work Statement (PWS) except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this agreement.

1.2. Background.

The 366th Financial Acquisition Squadron is acquiring mortuary services for the embalming, restoration, other preparation, care, and disposition of remains of eligible military 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), in support of the 366th Force Support Squadron, Mountain Home AFB, ID. The contractor will comply with all existing federal, state, territory, and local licensing requirements and regulatory standards applicable in the area of performance of this contract.

1.3. Scope: Mortuary Services.

Services include processing remains, classification of remains, treatment of remains, preparation of remains, transportation of remains, storage of remains, cremation of remains, and hygienic practices. The contractor shall accomplish state or other civil authority permits. The contractor shall be responsible for providing mortuary services reflecting the greatest dignity, respect, and professional care of the funeral service industry by ensuring complete disinfection, preservation, and restoration of the remains. The contractor shall practice hygienic measures that comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws. The contractor shall comply with state and federal laws. Note: Disciplinary action by a state or federal regulatory agency or state licensing authority may be the basis for cancelling this agreement.

1.3.1. Time Allotted to Initiate Services.

The contracted facility will furnish the materials ordered and perform the services specified by the Contracting Officer (CO) or designee as promptly as possible. The DoD mortuary facility or contactor will initiate the services not later than 24 hours after (1) receiving notification to remove the remains, or (2) after the remains have been released to U.S. Government control.

1.3.2. Time Allotted to Perform Services.

The time allotted to perform embalming and restoration work shall be based upon 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. However, the contracted facility will notify the Military Service Mortuary Affairs office if the procedure takes more than 24 hours to complete services (this does not include post embalming surveillance).

1.3.3. Area of Performance.

The area of performance is the geographic boundary that determines whether or not the mortuary services agreement applies to the services required by the Armed Services and whether or not transportation charges for removal or delivery of the remains may be incurred. The geographic boundary for this contract is an approximate 60-mile radius of Mountain Home, Idaho. Services may also be required within the State of Idaho and other immediate surrounding areas, with transportation charges outside of the 60-mile radius at the rate designated in the schedule.

Exceptions to the boundary shall be coordinated by the CO and the Mortuary Affairs Officer.

1.4. Period of Performance.

The ordering period shall be for five (5) years from the date of award.

1.5. General Information

1.5.1. Quality Control.

The contractor shall have an effective Quality Control Plan (QCP) to ensure their facility meets approved standards and the services are performed in accordance with contract requirements.

The contractor shall provide the QCP to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for acceptance not later than thirty (30) calendar days after award. The COR 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 thirty (30) calendar days from the date of award. The QCP shall include the following minimum requirements:

i. Contract and Task Order Number

ii. Description of processes and controls used to verify acceptable performance.

iii. Contractor developed metrics used to verify performance level of each task order objective.

iv. The Metrics will be reported as a quantitative value (%, ˃, ˂, etc.) and the definition and numerical figures used to calculate the % or reportable outcome.

v. The Task Order Objectives, associated Standards, metrics, and quantitative values for each metric shall be reported in accordance with the PWS.

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

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

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

1.5.2. Quality Assurance:

The Government will evaluate the contractor’s performance for the contract and task/delivery orders awarded. For those tasks listed in the Performance Matrix, the COR 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 COR or other designated evaluator will require the contractor manager or representative at the site to initial the observation. The Government surveillance of tasks not listed in the Performance Matrix or by methods other than those listed in the Performance Matrix (such as provided in the Inspection clause) may occur during the performance period of this task order. Such surveillance will be done according to standard inspection procedures or other task order provisions. Any action taken by the contracting officer as a result of surveillance will be according to the terms of the contract or task orders.

Therefore, the Government reserves the right to perform inspections to ensure facilities, supplies and services conform to approved and prescribed requirements as set forth in this document and the PWS. 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 Subpart 225.1 Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation (DFAR).

1.5.3. Recognized Holidays:

Contractor is required to perform services on holidays as needed.

Table 1.

New Year’s Day Labor Day Martin Luther’s King Jr’s Birthday

Columbus Day

President’s Day Veteran’s Day Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day

Independence Day Christmas Day Juneteenth National Independence Day

1.5.4. Place of Performance:

The contractor shall perform services under this task order at contractor facility.

1.5.5. Type of Contract:

The government will award a Firm-Fixed Price contract with contractor provided, CO approved Price List.

1.5.6. Contracting Officer Representative (COR):

The COR will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with the contract performance; maintain written and oral communication with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issues written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notify both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property; and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.5.7. Identification of Contractor Employees:

All contractor personnel attending meetings, answering Government telephones, and working in other situations where their contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. The contractor shall ensure that all documents or reports produced by contractor employees are suitably marked as contractor products or that contractor participation is appropriately disclosed.

1.5.8. Data Rights:

The Government has unlimited rights to all documents/material produced under this contract. All documents and materials, to include the source codes of any software, produced under this contract shall be Government owned and are the property of the Government with all rights and privileges of ownership/copyright belonging exclusively to the Government. These documents and materials may not be used or sold by the contractor without written permission from the Contracting Officer. All materials supplied to the Government will be the sole property of the Government and may not be used for any other purpose. This right does not abrogate any other Government rights.

2. Definitions and Acronyms

2.1. Definitions

2.1.1. Chemical Preservative Preparations.

Arterial, cavity, and other embalming chemicals used in the treatment of all remains under this contract shall affect the maximum preservation and disinfection of all body tissues, including those associated with body cavities (internal organs).

2.1.2. Contractor.

A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or service to the government.

The term used in this contract refers to the prime.

2.1.3. Contracting Officer (CO).

A person with authority to enter into, administer, and or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the government. Note: The only individual who can legally bind the government.

2.1.4. Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).

An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the contracting officer to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.5. Crematory Operator.

The legal entity or the authorized representative of the legal entity who conducts the cremation.

2.1.6. Crematory Or Crematorium.

The building that houses the cremation chamber.

2.1.7. Cremated Remains.

The remaining bone fragments after the cremation process is completed.

2.1.8. Cremation.

The technical heating process that reduces human remains to bone fragments. The reduction takes place through combustion and evaporation.

2.1.9. Cremation Chamber.

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

2.1.10. Defective Service.

A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.

2.1.11. Deliverable.

Anything that can be physically delivered but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

2.1.12. Hardwood Casket.

The container in which the human remains shall be delivered to the crematory to be placed in the cremation chamber for cremation. The casket shall meet or exceed the hardwood casket specifications.

2.1.13. Holding Facility.

An area designated for the retention of human remains prior to cremation within the crematory facilities that shall comply with any applicable public health laws, preserve the dignity of human remains, and recognize the personal integrity and health of the crematory authority personnel operating the cremation chamber.

2.1.14. Human Remains.

The dead human body or portions thereof

2.1.15. Non-Viewable Remains.

Any remains which, due to extreme mutilation, advanced decomposition, or severe burns or charring, cannot be restored to the known ante mortem appearance by restorative art.

2.1.16. Physical Security.

Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

2.1.17. Processed Cremated Remains.

The end result of pulverization where the residual from the cremation process is cleaned, leaving only bone fragments reduced to unidentifiable dimensions.

2.1.18. Processing Of Remains.

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

2.1.19. Quality Assurance.

The government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor are performed according to acceptable standards.

2.1.20. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance.

2.1.21. Quality Control.

All necessary measures taken by the Contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.

2.1.22. Reprocessing Of Remains.

The inspection and correction of all discrepancies noted in preservation (embalming). Application of restorative art techniques and/or cosmetics, dressing or wrapping, casketing, and transportation of remains as directed by the contracting officer or designated representative.

2.1.23. Sealable Container.

Any container in which processed remains can be placed and sealed to prevent leakage of processed remains or the entrance of foreign materials.

2.1.24. Subcontractor.

One that enters into a contract with a prime contractor. The Government does not have privacy of contract with the subcontractor.

2.1.25. Viewable Remains.

Any remains undamaged by trauma or disease; or those damaged by trauma or disease, but viewable tissue surfaces have been restored to the known ante mortem appearance of the deceased by restorative artwork.

2.1.26. Workday.

The number of hours per day the Contractor provides services in accordance with the contract.

2.1.27. Work Week.

Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.

2.2. Acronyms

Table 2.

CO Contracting Officer CONUS Continental United States (excludes Alaska and Hawaii) COR Contracting Officer Representative DAFI Department of Armed Forces Instructions DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DoD Department of Defense FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation KO Contracting Officer OCI Organizational Conflict of Interest OCONUS Outside Continental United States (includes Alaska and ODC Other Direct Costs POC Point of Contact PRS Performance Requirements Summary PWS Performance Work Statement QA Quality Assurance QASP Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan QC Quality Control QCP Quality Control Plan TE Technical Exhibit PADD Person Authorized to Direct Disposition

PAED Person with Authority to Effect Disposition

3. Contractor Furnished Items and Responsibilities:

3.1. General.

The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities, and services required to perform work under this contract except government furnished items.

3.1.1. Burial Clothing will be provided by the government.

3.1.2. Polyethylene sheeting (5 mil or greater) and a wool blanket shall be furnished by the Military

Service’s Mortuary Representative (Full Body Wrap only).

4. Specific Tasks:

4.1. Authorized Personnel:

The preparation of a human remains for final disposition shall be performed with respect to the confidentiality for the deceased and 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:

(1) Licensed embalmers; and unlicensed assistance as defined in this document.

(2) Licensed and registered interns/apprentices/students as defined by State Licensing Boards

(3) Public officials or representatives in the discharge of their official duties; and

(4) Licensed medical personnel

Contracted Licensed funeral homes may work with family and friends of the deceased to allow for 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 to accommodate religious practices.

4.1.1. 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 require 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 COR is responsible for verifying that 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 a current license in accordance with their state licensing authority.

4.1.2. 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) in accordance with applicable state regulations.

4.1.2.1. Tasks authorized to be performed by unlicensed assistant under the direct supervision of a licensed embalmer:

The following tasks may be performed by an unlicensed assistant who has received the required training in 4.1.2. when under the direct supervision of a licensed embalmer: removing remains from place of death and transporting to a mortuary facility, performing work as a remains handler to move remains throughout workstations in a mortuary, cleaning and dissecting viscera, suturing below the neck, preparing remains for large and small scale cavity fluid packs for the application of chemicals by the licensed embalmer, removing large and small scale cavity fluid packs, cleansing and drying remains, placing protective barriers over wounds and or sutures to prevent leakage, performing actions described in this document for a full body wrap, dressing remains in protective garments, underclothes, and uniforms or other clothing as directed by the Person Authorized to Direct Disposition (PADD)/Person with Authority to Effect Disposition (PAED), and placing remains in a casket. Additional activities that may be performed by an unlicensed assistant or person holding an appropriate license (e.g., cosmetologist, hairdresser, barber), include the application of cosmetics and the styling or cutting of hair to comply with Branch of Military Service grooming standards or to meet styling preferences directed by the PADD/PAED.

4.1.2.2. Tasks specifically not authorized to be performed by unlicensed assistant:

An unlicensed assistant may not perform any 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.

4.2. Classification of Remains Standards

4.2.1. General:

The embalmer will make a recommendation to the Military Service representative regarding the view ability of the deceased. Remains will be classified in one of three categories: viewable, viewable for identification, or non-viewable. Every attempt will be made to restore remains to a natural form and color that permits the person with the authority to direct or effect disposition to make the decision on whether the remains are to be viewed or not. The manner in which the remains are to be prepared will take into consideration cultural and religious customs and traditions of the deceased as well as the PADD’s preferences.

4.2.2. Viewable:

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

4.2.2.2. Viewable for Identification:

Remains may or may not be fully intact with face and hands that may have trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration. Although remains may be missing limbs or have received other trauma, condition of remains allows for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the person with the authority to direct or effect disposition. Remains may be restored to an appearance suitable for visual recognition.

4.2.2.3. 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. Condition of remains may not allow for dressing in uniform or other clothing selected by the PADD or PAED.

4.2.2.3.1. Head Wrap:

Remains are categorized as such when they are categorized as non-viewable 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 person with the authority to direct or effect disposition.

4.2.2.3.2. Full Body Wrap:

Remains categorized as non-viewable. The remains may not be intact or may have sustained severe trauma, edema, dehydration, or discoloration where restoration to a condition of viewable recognition is not possible and the remains cannot be dressed. In this situation the remains will be prepared using a full body wrap.

4.3. Embalming Standards

4.3.1. General:

Mortuary Facilities under contract to provide DoD mortuary services will prepare and embalm the remains of all entitled personnel in accordance with the written instructions of the PADD/PAED and in accordance with law. The embalmer will verify PADD/PAED elections prior to 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 prior to the release of the remains, subsequent remains or retained organs. 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. Pre-death 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 at a DoD Mortuary Facility or contracted facility may not receive final disposition for an extended period of time (10 or more days), and may have been subjected to extreme trauma, weather conditions, or have been transported over long distances. Therefore, all remains, whether viewable or non-viewable, require variations in preservation techniques and procedures to accomplish maximum disinfection, preservation, and restoration of all body tissues. The following procedures will be accomplished in the course of processing or reprocessing all viewable remains, and to the extent possible for non-viewable remains.

4.3.1.1. Insect Treatment:

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

4.3.1.2. Disinfecting

All body orifices shall be treated with a non-astringent disinfectant chemical.

4.3.1.3. Washing

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

4.3.1.4. 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 at the discretion of the embalmer.

4.3.1.5. 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.

4.3.1.5.1. Prevent Leakage

All lacerations, penetrating wounds, and autopsy incisions shall be sutured closed to prevent leakage. In cases where there has been 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.

4.3.1.5.2. 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 would not be possible (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 contractor cannot justify the use of full body wrap to just prevent leakage or to 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 to address missing limbs.

4.3.1.5.3. Communication required with full body wrap:

The recommendation for the use of a full body wrap must be a collaborative effort between embalmer and Branch of Service liaison/case manager. Whenever possible, the Branch of Service liaison/case manager must view the remains and discuss preparation procedures with the contract embalmer so that they can effectively communicate condition of remains and reason for the recommendation of a Full Body Wrap with the PADD. 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 a civilian mortuary facility. All communication among the preparing embalmer, Branch of Service liaison/case manager and the PADD shall be documented in writing and entered in the appropriate mortuary case file.

4.3.2. Dressing Remains:

The PADD/PAED will be consulted and provided the opportunity to determine the clothing the deceased is to be dressed, or which is to be displayed upon the top of wrapped remains, as the situation dictates.

The contract funeral home providing mortuary services will be provided the clothing selected by the PADD/PAED or will be provided a uniform by the Military Service. Prior to dressing, all remains will be placed in a white, opaque, or clear leak proof protective undergarment (one-piece plastic garment used to cover the entire body from the neck down to include the feet). Drying powder and/or preservative powders will be placed inside the protective undergarment to absorb any possible leakage or odors.

4.3.3. Grooming:

Military personnel who are dressed in their service uniform will be groomed in accordance with 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 requests other accommodations, the preparing mortuary will consult with the appropriate Military Service to ensure compliance with Military Service standards. Fingernails shall be cleaned and trimmed. When the PADD has requested that the Service member not be dressed in the service uniform, the mortuary representative will check with the PADD to determine the correct attire. For non-military personnel, the Military Service mortuary representative will check with the family to ascertain personal preferences.

4.3.4. 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.

4.3.5. Setting Features:

The mouth will be securely closed by needle injector, muscular or mandibular suture, where the lips abut to form a natural expression. The eyes shall 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.

4.4. Preparation of Un-embalmed Remains:

When the PADD/PAED has requested the deceased, be prepared for shipment to the receiving funeral home without embalming, the preparing mortuary 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 mortuary will prepare un-embalmed remains IAW paragraphs 4.3.2 through 4.3.5.

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

4.5. Preparation of Viewable Remains:

4.5.1. 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. The only exception to this requirement is in the absence of a limb or the head. The arterial chemical solution injected into the remains shall contain a minimum 5% concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s). The total volume of arterial solution injected shall not be less than 1 gallon per 50 pounds of body weight.

Unless the decedent is edematous, a humectant must be added in equal volume to the arterial chemical, in the total fluid solution injected into the head and arms. It is permissible for a humectant based arterial chemical to be used in lieu of humectant additive being incorporated into the total fluid solution. For non- autopsied cases, the thoracic, abdominal, male genitals, and cranial cavities shall be thoroughly aspirated and injected with full-strength cavity chemicals having a 36-index (%) or greater. A minimum of 16 ounces of cavity chemical must be injected into the thoracic cavity, and a minimum of 16 ounces in the abdominal cavity and male genitals, and a minimum of 2 ounces of cavity chemical to ensure preservation of contents of the cranial cavity, having a 36-index (%) or greater. Hypodermic injections, packs, or other special treatments shall be accomplished, as required, to assure the disinfection and preservation of all body tissues. A suitable cream or lotion shall be applied on the face and hands to prevent dehydration.

4.5.2. 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 wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner. The Military Service retains the ability to use an authorized uniform hat or beret, in lieu of gauze wrap. For remains requiring a partial head wrap the remains will be prepared IAW paragraph 4.6.4. The embalmer will ensure the tissue is firm, dry, and thoroughly preserved. The wrapping will be accomplished IAW paragraph 4.6.4. but will be limited to covering the affected area of trauma providing the possibility of viewing if desired by the person with authority to direct or effect disposition.

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

4.5.4. 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 ante mortem/postmortem stains. On viewable areas, masking cosmetics may be used to render stains/discolorations non-detectable.

4.6. Preparation of Non-viewable Remains.

4.6.1. General.

To obtain optimum results, a thorough pre- embalming case analysis will be completed. Each gallon of arterial fluid shall contain a minimum 10% concentration, by volume, of formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent(s).

4.6.1.1. 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 by means of hypodermic injection using undiluted cavity chemicals having a 36-index (%) or greater. In addition, packs, special gels, and/or dry sanitizers shall be used, as required, to ensure preservation, prevent leakage, and eliminate all offensive odors.

4.6.1.2. 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 (%) or greater. A minimum of 16 ounces of cavity chemical must be injected into the thoracic cavity, and a minimum of 16 ounces in the abdominal cavity and male genitals, and a minimum of 2 ounces of cavity chemical to ensure preservation of contents of the cranial cavity, having a 36-index (%) or greater.

4.6.1.3. 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 36-index (%) or greater is acceptable. Surface application of liquid, gel, or dry sanitizers and preservatives is also required to supplement primary needle and/or hypodermic injection techniques.

4.6.2. Non-viewable with Full Body Wrap: Wrapped Remains.

Remains that have been processed or reprocessed as outlined in paragraphs 4.5 or 4.6. and are traumatized to the extent that the remains cannot be dressed, shall be wrapped.

4.6.2.1. Preparation for Full Body Wrap.

Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows: Polyethylene sheeting (5 mil 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 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).

4.6.2.1.1. 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.

4.6.2.1.2. 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).

4.6.2.1.3. Strips, sheeting, and blanket preparation.

Additional cotton strips shall be placed over the remains, completely covering them. The polyethylene sheet is then folded in around the remains IAW paragraph 4.6.2.1. The folding of the polyethylene sheeting, white cotton sheet and wool blanket shall be uniform, with the head and foot ends folded in first.

4.6.3. 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. The white cotton sheet is then wrapped around the polyethylene- sheathed remains, secured with large safety pins (silver in color, 2-3 inches) placed no more than 4 inches apart. The wool blanket is then wrapped around the white cotton sheet, which shall have as few creases as possible, and secured with large safety pins (silver in color, 2-3 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 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 4.6.2. will be draped in the clothing provided by the Military Service mortuary representative.

4.6.4. Non-viewable Head Wrap.

Prior to 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.

4.6.4.1. Materials.

Required materials to accomplish the head wrap process include: two (2) clear or semi-transparent plastic (.78 mil or greater) liner bags approximately 24” by 23”; 2” white surgical tape or 2” clear strapping tape; 12 yards of 4.5” (sterile or non-sterile) gauze bandage (approx. 3 rolls);

cotton prep towels; (sterile or non- sterile) absorbent cotton or absorbent sheet product.

4.6.4.2. Procedure.

Wrapping shall be accomplished as follows: the embalmer will place one clear or semi-transparent bag over the head and tuck down into the full-body, plastic garment, as required in paragraph 4.3.2.

Ensure all air is removed from the bag before it is secured at the base of the neck with tape.

Taping the bag around the forehead, over the nose and over the chin may provide a more aesthetically pleasing shape. The embalmer will place a second clear or semi-transparent bag over the head and repeat the above steps, taking care not to lose shape of the facial features if present.

A minimum of three (3) strips of gauze bandage will be prepared side by side, overlapping .25 inch and centered over the crown of the head extending to the base of the skull and the base of the chin.

The bandage will be tightly stretched and unobtrusively secured by tape. Beginning at the natural hairline on the left side of the head, the embalmer will secure the end of gauze bandage roll.

Once secure, the gauze bandage will be wrapped around the head, overlapping the previous row of bandage by one half the width of the gauze bandage. This is done to ensure no visibility of the underlying plastic bag and to present a neat and professional appearance.

The gauze bandage will continue to be wrapped around the head, down the neck until it reaches the base of the neck and will be secured with white surgical tape. The remains should then be dressed IAW paragraph 4.3.2. ensuring no tape is visible above the collar of the shirt or blouse.

Trauma that is isolated to a specific area will be wrapped with gauze or equivalent in a neat and professional manner.

4.7. 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 4.5. or 4.6.

Hypodermic-injection of the thoracic and abdominal walls; back, buttocks, male genitals, shoulders, vertebral column with an undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (%) or greater is required. The scalp will be injected by syringe and needle with the chemical solution used for the arterial injection.

4.7.1. 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 x 2 inch and immersed in an undiluted cavity chemical having a 36-index (%) or greater, for an appropriate amount of time but typically a minimum of 2 hours.

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

The preserved organs are to be placed into the thoracic or abdominal cavities and liberally coated with a formaldehyde or isomer of formaldehyde derivative preservative agent and drying compound (hardening compound).

4.7.2. 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 the calvarium secured by cranial clamps or wiring. The scalp shall be replaced over the calvarium, the incision will be coated with drying compound and tightly and neatly sutured to avoid leakage and unnatural appearance. The color of the suture cord should blend with the deceased’s hair.

4.8. 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 its 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, DoD Mortuary Facility) or the signed DD Form 2063 (Record of Preparation and Disposition of Remains, Contracted Mortuary Facility) meets the PWS, DoD Standards within this document, and commercial item descriptions in their entirety.

4.9. Quality Assurance Evaluation:

4.9.1 Contracted Facility.

Remains will be inspected before embalming, 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 (CO) 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.

4.9.2. 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.

Caskets specifications are provided in PWS Appendix A. Caskets will meet the specifications outlined in this Appendix and will be checked for defects (PWS Appendix B) prior to casketing of remains.

Defective caskets will not be utilized by a contracted facility providing DoD mortuary services.

5.2.…