Do you have to undergo any training to work at Baldarroch Chapel and Crematorium?


All staff who will conduct cremations at Baldarroch Chapel and Crematorium have to undergo training to qualify as a Crematorium Technician. The content and the standards to be met during the training and subsequent examinations are directed by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities. This training involves conducting a minimum of 50 cremations under supervision of a mentor. In addition to this all trainees must also conduct 2 days of baby and infant cremation training which is conducted at a crematorium which is deemed as a centre of excellence on this particular subject. On successful completion of this trainees have to sit a written examination which is marked by the Federation of Burial and Cremation Authorities. Finally, all trainees must sit a 3 hour practical examination where they are examined on the full cremation process. This covers from the moment the coffin enters the crematorium to the production of the ashes following the cremation. In addition to this the examiner will question the trainee on the Code of Cremation Practice and technical/ maintenance questions relating to the cremator and abatement equipment (the equipment which prevents pollution being released into the atmosphere).

On successful completion of this training there is further in house training by the Crematorium Manager to cover front of house duties. This covers things like:

  • Crematorium Administration which includes the maintenance of statutory and legal documentation.
  • The standards required for the reception of the deceased and their families at the crematorium.
  • How to conduct services including the audio and visual equipment.