Operations Handbook for Worker and Volunteer Safety
Oliverian Everlasting Burial Groun

​PURPOSE
The purpose of this manual is to promote safety procedures and reduce risk of injury to workers, volunteers, and visitors to the burial ground and its White Mountain Conservation Burial land holdings. This handbook is also designed to provide protection for the land, structures, property, and incidentals that are part of the burial ground. The following protocols and procedures constitute Best Practices that benefit the property and all those who interact with the land and its governing body while reducing exposure to harm inherent in burial ground management.

CONSTITUENCIES

• Volunteers (including both on-site and the Board of Directors)
• Contracted and Subcontracted Workers
• Employees
• Members of the Public
• Recreational Visitors

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR VISITORS TO THE PROPERTY

GENERAL SAFETY RULES FOR WORKERS AND VOLUNTEERS

1. All individuals who enter the burial ground property for any reason will comply with existing safety rules.
2. Immediately report to the person in charge any unsafe practices or conditions you feel might be a hazard, including defects in machinery, tools and equipment or any other hazards.
3. If an object is too heavy, get help. Always use ergonomic practices, e.g. “lift with the legs and not the back.”
4. Never throw tools, materials or supplies to another worker.
5. Never leave an unsafe condition unguarded or unmarked; never leave machinery unattended, even temporarily.
6. Alcoholic beverages and narcotics will not be allowed on burial ground property at any time.
7. Bringing or attempting to bring firearms, weapons or explosives onto burial ground property is prohibited.
8. No-smoking is allowed.
9. Suitable clothing and footwear for the weather and the type of work shall be worn.
10. Emergency medical care contact information will be posted in a visible place on site. Workers will be provided with emergency contqct information in advance.
11. Chemicals used for eradicating invasive or other unwanted plants or animals must be approved and the process for use in an Integrative Pest Management Plan followed. 
12. Universal precautions, including disposable gloves, facial masks, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) are recommended for use in the event of possible exposure to blood-borne pathogens.
13. Eye protection and other precautionary equipment (goggles, face shields, chaps, etc.) are recommended for persons operating machinery of any kind on the property.
14. Work areas will be kept organized and cleaned up leaving no potential hazards in place.
15. Do not leave equipment or tools unattended.
16. Unplug, disconnect, or turn off equipment prior to maintenance.

FAMILY SERVICES PROCEDURES
Visitor safety is paramount. Responsibility is shared between visitors and those providing access to spaces for public use, spelled out clearly in the Rules and Regulations.
 
To maximize safety for all visitors, volunteers, workers, and employees will:

1. Assist visitors in keeping to pathways and trails, and away from designated work areas.
2. Inform visitors of any particular circumstances in place at the time of the visit (e.g., slip, fall, or trip hazards; insect or wildlife presence; weather conditions; anything to be aware of that may impact their visit or event)
3. Help visitors, especially children and pets (including companion animals of any kind), avoid freshly dug soil.
4. Help direct traffic and parking at the entrance.
5. Gather visitors at the gate before leading to the grave area.
6. Have a first aid kit on hand, plus extra water, umbrellas, walking sticks, etc.
7. Know where to find emergency numbers for First Responders.
8. Be prepared to assist with evacuation.

STANDARD SAFETY GEAR
General Clothing and Footwear

1. For safety and comfort, work clothes should be sturdy, fit well, and be washable.
2. Loose clothing worn by volunteers/employees working on or near moving machinery or equipment is prohibited.
3. Steel toe safety shoes should be worn on all jobs involving handling or moving heavy material. Soft-soled shoes (such as athletic shoes) do not afford protection from puncture wounds when in the field.
4. Work clothes should be washed frequently as a safeguard against skin infections and irritations.
5. For outdoor work in winter weather, it is best to wear several layers of loose, warm, lightweight clothing. This will enable workers to remove layers of clothing as temperatures rise or add layers as temperatures fall.
6. Chaps or leg protection should be worn when operating chainsaws, or in terrain with barbed shrubs.

 
Ear, Face, and Eye Protection

1. Ear protection is needed around power equipment with high noise levels.
2. There are many types of safety glasses, goggles, shields, etc., made of glass or plastic to protect the worker from hazards. Face and eye protection should be worn for any task where there is a probability that an injury may occur without such protection.
3. Replace eyewear that is scratched, punctured, or otherwise impaired.

 
Finger, Palm, and Hand Protection

1. Gloves with leather palms should be worn when handling rough edges or abrasive materials or when the job subjects hands to possible lacerations, punctures, or bums.
2. Skin irritation should be prevented by washing with soap and water, not gasoline.
3. Wear gloves when dealing with poisonous plants such as poison ivy and poison oak.
4. Protective gloves designed for specific hazards should be worn when handling irritating materials or chemicals.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION
Tractors

1. Be physically and mentally fit when operating tractors. Fatigue, stress, medication, alcohol and drugs can detract from safe tractor operation.
2. Read operator's manual and warning decals. Pay attention to safety information.
3. Equip the tractor with a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) and wear seat belts.
4. Inspect the tractor for any hazards and correct them before operating.
5. Make sure everyone who operates a tractor has received training and is physically able to operate it safely.
6. Shut down equipment, turn off engine, remove key and wait for moving parts to stop before dismounting equipment.
7. Keep bystanders and others away from tractor operation area. Do not allow "extra riders," especially children.
8. Install a first aid kit to the tractor.
9. Ensure that all lights and flashers are operational.
10. Ensure that all tires are fully inflated.

 
Hand Tools

1. Select the right tool for the job.
2. Store tools properly between use to avoid unnecessary damage to surfaces such as wooden or metal parts.
3. Sharpen the cutting edges of tools and carry tools with their sharp edges down.
4. Sand wooden handles on shovels, rakes, mauls, etc., thus preventing splinters and burns.
5. Check the handle of each tool for tightness.
6. Check the head on each tool and have the tool dressed, if it has mushroomed (includes burrs and chipped edges). i.e., hammers, chisels, punches, mauls, etc.
7. Wear shatterproof, clear goggles, or safety glasses when using chisels, punches, wedges, grinders, drills, wire brushes, etc. Be sure no one is in the area before using such a tool.
8. Avoid using metal measuring tape, fabric tapes containing woven metal strands, rope with wire cord, or other tools and equipment that have conductive properties while around energized electrical circuits or equipment.
9. Use only properly insulated tools (screwdrivers, wire cutters, etc.) when working around energized electrical circuits or equipment.
10. Return tools to their proper place so that they do not fall from a ledge and/or create a trip/fall hazard.

 
Chainsaws

1. Saws must be checked to ensure they are in proper working order, brakes, chain, controls, etc., according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Chainsaws that are not in complete operating condition shall be taken out of service until repaired.
3. Ensure chain break is functional and that chain does not slip when engaged.
4. Visually inspect chain stop to ensure it is properly attached to the saw.
5. Always start chain saw with chain break engaged.
6. Always evaluate work area to identify potential hazards that may exist.
7. Identify escape route before operating saw.

 
 Mowers

1. Mowers with motors running should not be left unattended.
2. Be aware of foreign objects that may be in the area that is being mowed. Wire, stones, bottle caps, sticks, etc., should be removed before mowing.
3. The operator shall warn bystanders of the danger of flying objects. Extreme precaution must be taken when there are children in the immediate area.
4. Operators must keep their hands and feet from the undercarriage of mowers.
5. After mowing, all dirt, grass, etc., must be removed from the tip of the mower. Place mower in a dry location under cover.
6. Operators of power mowers should not wear open toe shoes.
7. Power lawn mowers with motors running will not be lifted or tilted from the ground.
8. Before the start of any work on a lawn mower the spark plug must be disconnected.
9. Avoid getting close to visitors in the burial ground.
10. Always use care when filling the tank with gasoline. Wipe up spills. Never fill the tank on a mower that has been operating and is hot. Vapors from the gasoline can be ignited by a hot muffler.
11. Close-fitting clothes are less likely to get caught on controls or moving parts. Long pants and sturdy leather shoes protect you from flying sticks, stones, or other items not caught by the rear guard. Shoes also should provide good traction. A canvas or open toed shoe cannot protect your foot if it slips into the blade.
12. When mowing for long periods of time or if noise is objectionable, wear hearing protection such as earplugs.
13. Never point the discharge chute at anyone.
14. Wet grass is slippery and the operator can lose footing, slip under the mower, or allow the mower to roll backwards. Wet grass also clogs the discharge chute and can cause the engine to falter. When this happens, always turn off the engine and wait a few seconds for the blades to stop rotating before correcting it.
15. Some slopes are too steep to mow safely, so use good judgment. Always push walk behind mowers across slopes to avoid coming in contact with the mower (e.g., by sliding down the hill onto the mower, or allowing the mower to roll backwards on top of operator). Drive riding mowers up and down slopes.
16. Never leave a running mower unattended. When you leave the operator's position the mower should be turned off. New models have an operator presence switch that automatically kills the engine when the operator releases the handle.
17. Disconnect spark plug to service. Disconnect the spark plug when you work on the mower. This prevents the engine from accidentally being started. Keep all parts in working condition.
18. Fluid leaks (gas or oil), blade sharpening, and balancing may require professional service.
19. Add mulch one to three feet around a tree (depending on size) makes trimming easier. Keep trees pruned properly so that you can see while mowing.
20. Fill depressions or low spots with soil can help you prevent sprains.

GRAVE OPERATIONS
Grave Digging Safety Guidelines

1. All graves that are left open and/or unattended will be covered with plywood and blocked off with caution tape or cones to warn individuals.
2. Markers will only be reset by burial ground workers.
3. The grave should not be any deeper than 4 feet in depth. 3 ½ feet is ideal.
4. Grave digging should always be performed by a minimum of two people. Never dig alone.
5. No one shall be exposed to heights greater than four (4) feet when working on a “walking/working surface,” without a secure means of preventing catastrophic falls.
6. Each employee that creates an opening, pits, graves or similar excavation four (4) feet shall not leave the area unprotected and shall provide barricades or covers to eliminate potential for fall exposure.

 
Preparing the Grave

1. Frames, or templates, may be used for marking grave dimensions. Remove frames as soon as possible to avoid tripping hazards.
2. Place horizontal side boards or planks on long sides of the grave to provide stability for pallbearers and carriers, and to reduce grave subsidence, or side wall cave-in.
3. Sheets of plywood may be used vertically to maintain side wall integrity if necessary.
4. Soil must be piled with a “spoil distance of 2 feet from the opening sides of the grave. (OSHA)
5. Remove the turf in sections and set aside on a tarp.
6. Remove the humus layer and set aside on a tarp.
7. Remove the next section to a depth of 3 ½ to 4 feet and set aside on a tarp.
8. Once the soil has been removed, dig a trench on top and bottom to create a reservoir or contour the entire bottom of the grave to provide runoff for any water.
9. Layer the bottom of the grave with biomass to create an oxygen trap to promote aerobic decomposition.

 
Use of Ladders

1. Never use a defective ladder.
2. Before working from a ladder, be sure that it is secured, tied or that someone is holding it.
3. When going up or down a ladder, always face the ladder.
4. When working from a ladder, never reach too far out in any direction. Keep one hand gripping the rail.
5. Never climb a ladder and carry cumbersome objects at the same time. Use a bucket and rope to lift tools and other objects.
6. Ladders may be placed to a 4-foot depth, with 3 feet extending above horizon (OSHA).

 
Lifting, Transferring, and Transporting
Use the Four-Step Lifting Process when carrying heavy loads:

1. Get Ready: Size up the load. If it is too heavy or bulky, play it smart - get help. Check the load and remove protruding nails, splinters, sharp edges, oil, grease, or moisture. If the surface is rough - wear gloves. Wear safety shoes with treaded soles to aid in the prevention of foot or ankle injuries. Know where the load is going and where you are going to put it down. Be sure the path you take is free from obstacles.
2. Pick It Up: Get a firm footing and good balance. Place your feet about shoulder width apart. If the load is below waist level, bend your knees to get into position. Keep your back as straight as possible. Grip the load firmly. Lift the object to carrying position, keeping it close to the body. Allow the leg and arm muscles to do the work.
3. Carry It Carefully: Be sure you can see where you are going. When changing directions, be careful not to twist your body. Turn your body with changes in the position of your feet. Use extra caution in tight places so as not to smash your fingers or hands.
4. Put It Down: If the receiving surface is about waist high, use the edge to take part of the load. Then push it forward. If you lower the load to the floor, bend your knees, keep your back as straight as possible, and the load close to your body.

 
Carrying a Casket or Shrouding Board

1. Apply basic techniques of lifting and lowering as described in the Four-Step Lifting Process when possible.
2. Match carriers (or pallbearers) for size and height on either side of the casket or shrouding board, with the strongest in the middle positions on either side.
3. Appoint a leader to watch for hazards, uneven ground, and for issues with carriers who can communicate clearly and solve issues in the moment.
4. The leader will proceed along the predetermined route to graveside ahead of the casket and alerts pallbearers to any potential trip hazards.

 
Lowering a Casket or Shrouded Body Into the Grave

1. Assemble carriers on either side of the grave evenly by height and strength.
2. Leader gives the go order to lift by the ropes slowing and evenly, using legs, not backs.
3. Rails are removed. If a shrouding board is in place, it will also need to be removed from the head or feet direction.
4. Lowering begins by letting out rope slowing and evenly.
5. Ropes can be removed by one side gently pulling.

 
Backfilling and Finishing the Grave

1. The lowered casket or shroud will be covered with a layer of organic material prior to backfilling.
2. Shovels of all sizes in good repair will be available on site for use by visitors to the service.
3. If someone is wheelchair-bound it may be appropriate to offer them a rock or small container of earth to touch or hold and then deliver it to the grave on their behalf.
4. Starting with the last soil to be removed, return soil to the grave, including rocks and roots.
5. Excess soil may be mounded, tamped, or left.
6. Additional stabilizing pine boughs or other organic material may be placed on the mound for erosion protection.

 
Handling of Markers

1. Markers will be placed by burial ground staff.
2. Work gloves are required for handling and placement.

TRAIL BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE

1. Regular monthly safety audits and inspections of burial areas, equipment storage, walkways and trails, and work zones will be conducted by WMCB (OSHA).
2. Checks will be made for uneven ground, downed trees, hanging or semi-detached tree branches, wildlife presence, or other potential changes.
3. All standard safety equipment as detailed here is required.

VEHICLE USE AND PARKING

1. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the property unless authorized by WMCB.
2. Parking is allowed on the road.
3. All parking safety precautions as are commonly followed are required.
4. Speed along the road must be controlled at all times, not to exceed 10 mph.
5. Parking attendants will assist with parking during high traffic events.

CHEMICAL EXPOSURE

1. WMCB will not use chemicals for plant or wildlife management unless the product has been identified for use in the Integrative Pest Management Plan.
2. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for chemicals used with equipment will be on file and distributed to workers and volunteers for any chemical brought on to burial ground property.
3. Proper labeling of all chemicals must be maintained at all times.
4. Labeling of any chemicals must contain the following information:

• Identity of the chemical
• Physical and health hazards
• Whether it is a carcinogen
• Primary routes of entry
• Precautions for safe handling and use
• Emergency and first-aid procedures
• Date of preparation of the latest revision
• Name, address and telephone of the manufacturer, importer or other responsible party.
• Clear or plastic containers must be marked with the chemical contained within the bottle.

HARASSMENT

1. All people associated with WMCB are entitled to work in an environment free from all forms of harassment by staff, management, visitors, or other.
2. Harassment of individuals for any reason will not be tolerated, including harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or military status.
3. Comments, conduct, and innuendoes that might be perceived by others as offensive or harassing are wholly inappropriate and are to be strictly forbidden.
4. Legally, employers and employees may be held personally liable for acts of harassment, whether committed by an employee, a supervisor, a visitor, a volunteer, or a vendor. An employee can be held individually liable for harassment and will be subject to the same penalties which may be imposed upon employers under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and as outlined in the EEOC
5. Sexual harassment is considered conduct which is focused on a person or group of persons including, but not limited to, physical or verbal abuse, unwelcome activity of a sexual nature, retaliation, as well as any behavior or action which interferes with an employee’s ability.

​ACCIDENT/INCIDENT/INJURY REPORTING
A written report will be generated by the presiding authority who will detail information in writing, including:

• Name, address, contact info of subject
• Time and date of assistance
• How the exposure/incident occurred
• Types of care provided
• Names of First Aid providers
• Signatures of both parties (injured and person reporting) 

 
The report will be made available to the injured person and kept on file at WMCB. (OSHA)

REFERENCES
Osha Regulations
Master List of Regulations 
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910
Ladders
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.23
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910SubpartI
Safety Color Code for Marking Hazards
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.144
Hand and Power Tools
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910SubpartP
 
Catholic Diocese of Portland
Thanks to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland for their Best Practices Manual Cemeteries document that helped inform this handbook. https://portlanddiocese.org/sites/default/files/2021-10/2457_BestPracticesManualCemeteries11-2012.pd

safeguarding ecological integrity through natural burial