A cremator operates the furnace that reduces human remains to bone fragments and gases. They calibrate the oven, scrape the ashes, and sift them before placing them in a labeled container. They also keep the crematorium clean and follow local guidelines. A high school diploma is required, and on-the-job training is usually provided.
A cremator operates the furnace in which human remains are reduced to bone fragments and gaseous chemical compounds. He usually works alone, but sometimes he has an assistant to help slide the caskets into the kiln. Some cremators also serve as funeral directors. A cremator can work for a small, family-owned funeral home or for a large organization.
A cremator’s job requires a basic understanding of the science and knowledge of how the crematory works. After he starts the oven, he usually checks all the gauges and thermostats to make sure they are working properly. He then calibrates the oven to reach the high temperatures needed for the procedure and sets the timer based on the coffin materials and the deceased’s body weight.
At the end of the process, the cremator waits for the kiln and its contents to cool down. He then uses tools to pull the unburned parts of the coffin out of the furnace. These parts are usually made of metal or other non-flammable materials.
Typically, the next step in cremation work is to carefully scrape the bone fragments, commonly referred to as ashes, into a designated container. The remains are usually quite coarse and are usually broken down into a fine texture by a machine called an electric cremated remains processor. This process can also be done by hand.
The cremator usually sifts the sand-like material through a fine screen. Any remaining superfluous materials are removed from the mixture before transferring it to a cardboard box or container. The desired final product should be thin enough to be easily spreadable without additives. The average weight of cremated remains is around 6 pounds (2.7 kg) for men and 4 pounds (1.8 kg) for women.
The receptacle is usually labeled with the name of the deceased, as well as the person to whom the remains will be transferred. If any jewelry or other personal items remain, he traditionally packs them separately for return to the family. He usually keeps accurate records of all parts of the process.
Keeping a crematorium clean and tidy is often part of a cremator’s job. He is also normally required to assist in the care of the property’s landscaping and memorial service area. Following local and regional guidelines for cremation practices is an important part of your job. Keeping crematory equipment up to date is also a common job responsibility, as is ensuring all local and regional permits are up to date.
To become a cremator, all you need is a high school diploma or equivalent. Most cremator jobs offer on-the-job training. Good mechanical skills and attention to detail are desirable attributes for job seekers.
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