Exhumation
Exhumations are generally rare and tend to be traumatic occasions. To arrange an exhumation for both buried and cremated remains you will require a Home Office Exhumation Licence. The licence is free and can be obtained by telephoning 020 7035 5530/5531.
It is an offence to exhume any human remains without first obtaining the necessary lawful permissions. Funeral directors can help in obtaining these.
Exhumation licences will also contain certain conditions that have to be observed.
If the person is buried in Consecrated grounds, permission from the church must also be obtained.
An Environmental Health Officer must be present at the exhumation of a body and supervises the event to ensure that respect for the deceased person is maintained and that public health is protected. The Officer will also ensure that:
- The correct grave is opened.
- The exhumation commences as early as possible in the morning to ensure maximum privacy.
- The plot is screened as appropriate for privacy.
- Health and safety of all workers is maintained e.g. protective clothing including masks and gloves, task lights and all other necessary equipment.
- Everyone present shows due respect to the deceased person and to adjoining graves.
- The nameplate on the casket corresponds to that on the licence.
- Tthe new casket has been approved by the Environmental Health Officer.
- All human remains and all the pieces of casket are placed in the new casket.
- The new casket is properly sealed.
- The area of exhumation is properly disinfected.
- Satisfactory arrangements are in place for the onward transmission of the remains.
