The furnace in which human remains are reduced to bone fragments and gaseous chemical compounds is controlled by a cremator. He usually works alone, but he occasionally has help sliding the caskets into the furnace. Some crematoria also serve as funeral homes. A cremator can work for a small, family-run funeral home or a large corporation.
A cremator’s job necessitates a basic understanding of science as well as knowledge of how the crematory furnace operates. He usually double-checks all gauges and thermostats after starting the furnace to ensure they are working properly. He then calibrates the furnace to reach the high temperatures needed for the procedure and sets the timer for the procedure based on the casket materials and the deceased’s body weight.
The cremator waits for the furnace and its contents to cool before continuing the process. He then uses tools to remove the casket’s unburned parts from the furnace’s interior. Metal or other non-flammable materials are commonly used for these components.
The bone fragments, commonly referred to as ashes, are typically scraped into a designated container as the next step in the cremation process. The remains are usually quite coarse, and an electric cremated remains processor is used to break them down to a fine texture. This procedure can also be carried out by hand.
The sand-like material is then sifted through a fine screen by the cremator. Before transferring the mixture to a cardboard box or canister, any remaining superfluous materials are removed. Without any additives, the desired end product should be fine enough to be easily scattered. Cremated remains weigh approximately 6 pounds (2.7 kg) for men and 4 pounds (1.8 kg) for women.
The name of the deceased as well as the person to whom the remains will be transferred are usually written on the receptacle. If any jewelry or other personal belongings remain, he usually packs them separately and returns them to the family. In general, he keeps meticulous records of every step of the process.
The cremator’s job usually includes keeping the crematorium clean and tidy. In most cases, he is also expected to help with the property’s landscaping and memorial service area. Part of his job entails adhering to local and regional guidelines for crematory practices. Keeping the crematory equipment up to code, as well as ensuring that all local and regional permits are current, is a common job responsibility.
A high school diploma or equivalent is all that is required to work as a cremator. The majority of cremator jobs include on-the-job training. Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail are desirable qualities in job candidates.