Rules and Regulations in respect of the Borough Cemeteries
Inspection of Memorials
- The Council's Cemeteries Superintendent will inspect all memorials within the Borough Cemeteries at the point of installation or re-fixing. The inspection will ascertain whether the memorial corresponds with the details set out in the mason's written Application, and whether compliance with BS 8415 has been achieved, both in relation to the components used, and in the fixing methods employed. Where a memorial does not meet all of these requirements, the mason will be required to take such corrective action as may be necessary to achieve compliance.
- In addition, all newly- fixed or re-fixed memorials will be inspected for stability, 28 days after installation. When a memorial fails a stability test, the mason will be required to take immediate and appropriate corrective action. Should the memorial fail a second stability test 28 days thereafter, the Council will take disciplinary action against the mason.
- In order to ensure public safety, all memorials in the Borough Cemeteries will be inspected by the Asset Management Team on a 5-year cycle, pursuant to the Council's Management of Memorials Policy. The inspection will be fully documented, identifying all dangerous or unstable memorials.
- Where a memorial is identified as posing a danger, the level of risk will be assessed. Should a memorial require attention, then in most cases, the Grantee or Grantees will be notified by post in the first instance, advised of the situation and invited to rectify matters. Depending upon the level of risk, the Council may take interim measures to ensure the safety of the memorial, and also cemetery visitors. Such measures may include cordoning and temporary supports. If no response is received from the Grantee within 3 months, then the Council will take whatever action is required to make the memorial permanently safe, which is likely to result in the memorial being laid flat.
- Should a memorial pose an immediate danger, then the Council will take whatever urgent action may be necessary to make it safe, and notify the Grantee as soon as is practicable thereafter.
- In view of the above, Grantees should notify Bereavement Services of any change of address, so that they may be contacted in the future, if necessary.
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