How to Lower a Casket Into the Ground
A casket-lowering device is used to lower a casket into the ground. Until 1894, when the device was patented by Albert Richardson, ropes and other awkward means were used to lower the remains of the deceased into the grave.
Basic casket-lowering devices consist of a set of straps, a frame, a crank handle and a hand brake. Higher-end models include placement rollers to make placement easier for the pallbearers. These models also typically include an "end stop" device to prevent the casket from rolling off the end of the device once it has been placed.
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Instructions
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Lowering the Casket
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1
Set up the casket-lowering device according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using the crank handle, adjust the straps as necessary. Ideally, the straps should be tightened completely and then lowered 2 to 3 inches to prevent damage to the metal tubing supporting the straps. Once the lowering device is set up, set the hand brake to lock the device in place.
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2
Place the casket onto the straps of the lowering device. If a higher-end model is being used, use the rollers to gently guide the casket into place.
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3
Release the hand brake and lower the casket into the ground. The casket's weight will aid in the lowering from this point on.
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4
Remove the straps from the device according to the manufacturer's instructions once the casket has been lowered into the ground completely.
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Tips & Warnings
Never attempt to raise the casket using the crank handle once the lowering process has begun. Doing so can irreparably damage the gears of the lowering device.
If there are especially sharp edges on the casket, be careful when placing it to prevent damage to the straps. Damaged straps can fail, causing the casket to fall and be damaged.
