15 May Cemetery Worker Safety

Cemetery Worker Safety Cemetery workers perform a wide variety of duties throughout the year, including grounds maintenance, grave excavation, monument installation, equipment operation, and graveside setup. These activities expose workers to excavation hazards, heavy equipment, material handling, uneven terrain, weather extremes, chemicals, and other outdoor hazards. Proper training, planning, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe work practices are essential for cemetery operations. Grave Excavation and Digging Grave excavation may be performed manually or with excavators, backhoes, and other powered equipment. Before excavation begins: Determine whether underground utilities, irrigation systems, piping, electrical lines, or other hazards are present. Do not assume an excavation area is clear...