State Board of Registration of Funeral Directors and Embalmers

Health & Welfare Building

Hazen Drive

Tel. #(603) 271-4648

 

PART Frl 101  PURPOSE AND SCOPE

 

Frl 101.01  Purpose and Scope.  The rules of this title implement the statutory responsibilities of the New Hampshire board of registration of funeral directors and embalmers created by RSA 325.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; rpld by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

PART Frl 102  DEFINITIONS

 

Frl 102.01  Terms Used.  As used in these rules, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

 

(a)  “Active in practice” means performing the function of embalming or funeral directing in handling human remains;

 

(b)  “Applicant” means a person who has submitted an application for licensure to the office of professional licensure and certification (OPLC);

 

(c) “Approved” means the review and acceptance of a specific activity, agency, institution, organization, or program of study by the board, or by a legally authorized board or agency involved in embalming or funeral service education or embalming or funeral service practice in another jurisdiction.

 

(d)  “Board” means the New Hampshire board of registration of funeral directors and embalmers created by RSA 325:2;

 

(e) “Endorsement” means the issuance of a license which meets New Hampshire licensing requirements based on the applicant’s possession of a current license in another jurisdiction pursuant to RSA 310:17;

 

(f)  “Executive director” means the executive director of the office of professional licensure and certification;

 

(g)  “Final transcript” means a record including name of the institution, the student’s name, the official signature and seal, the courses studied, the date of successful program completion, the certificate, and the degree or diploma awarded;

 

(h)  “Funeral assistant” means individuals other than licensed funeral directors, embalmers, or apprentices who are employed to remove and transport human remains;

 

(i)  “Lapse” means “lapse” as defined in RSA 310:2, I(e);

 

(j)  “License” means  “license” as defined in RSA 310:2, I(f);

 

(k)  “Licensee” means “licensee” as defined in Plc 102.20;

 

(l)  “Principal occupation” means an occupation which a person engages in as a primary means of employment;

 

(m)  “Rulemaking” means the statutory procedures for the formulation of a rule as set forth in RSA 541-A:3; and

 

(n)  “Solicitation” means direct contact in person, by individualized mail, individualized electronic or telephone message for purposes of offering to perform services including but not limited to at-need and pre-need funeral arrangements.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; rpld by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #6927, eff 1-1-99, para (g) EXPIRED: 7-1-16 pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II and 2015, 176:108, XIX; para (g) amd by #12672, eff 11-20-18; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

PART Frl 103  AGENCY ORGANIZATION

 

Frl 103.01  Description.  The New Hampshire board of registration of funeral directors and embalmers created by RSA 325 shall be responsible for:

 

(a)  Approving educational programs pertinent to continued competence for embalmers, funeral directors, and the funeral service profession;

 

(b)  Funeral service practice standards;

 

(c)  Establishing the qualifications of applicants for licensure of apprentice embalmers, embalmers, funeral directors, funeral homes, and chapels;

 

(d)  Establishing the eligibility requirements for license renewal, including the requirements for continuing education; and

 

(e)  The administration and enforcement of RSA 325-A relative to the cremation of human remains pursuant to RSA 325:8-a.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

Frl 103.02  Composition of the Board.  The board consists of 5 members who meet the eligibility requirements of RSA 325:2, II.

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

Frl 103.03 Office Hours, Office Location, Mailing Address, and Telephone.

 

(a)  The board’s office shall be located at the office of professional licensure and certification, 7 Eagle Square, Concord, NH 03301, and shall be open to the public during the normal business hours established in Plc 103.03(b).

 

(b)  Correspondence, filings, and other communications intended for the board shall be addressed to the board at the address in paragraph (a) above.

 

(c)  The board’s telephone number is (603) 271-2152.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26 (formerly Frl 103.04)

 

Frl 103.04 Meetings.  The board shall meet monthly or at such other times as may be called for by the chairman or by vote of the board.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26 (formerly Frl 103.05)

 

PART Frl 104  PUBLIC INFORMATION

 

Frl 104.01  Record of Board Actions.  Minutes shall be kept of board meetings and of official actions taken by the staff member designated by the executive director of the OPLC.  These minutes shall record the members who participate in each vote and shall separately record the position of members who choose to dissent, abstain, or concur.  Minutes of board actions which are not confidential under RSA 91-A:3, II or RSA 91-A:5 shall be public records and shall be available for inspection during the board's ordinary office hours within 5 business days from the close of the meeting or vote in question unless the 72 hour availability requirement of RSA 91-A:3, III is applicable.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99, EXPIRED: 7-1-09 pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II and 2008, 303:4

 

New.  #12672, eff 11-20-18; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

Frl 104.02  Custodian of Records.  The executive director shall be the custodian of the board’s records and shall respond to requests to examine those records which are subject to public inspection, or which may otherwise be properly examined by the person requesting access.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 

Frl 104.03  Copies of Records.  Persons desiring copies of board records shall submit a request as required by Plc 104.01 in writing which identifies as particularly as possible the information being sought and agrees to pay the cost of copying as required by Plc 1001.05.

 

Source.  #6927, eff 1-1-99; ss by #14456, eff 1-1-26

 


 

CHAPTER Frl 200 RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

 

Statutory Authority: RSA 325:9, VIII

 

REVISION NOTE:

 

         Document #13901, effective 5-12-24, repealed Part Frl 201 through Part Frl 216 in Chapter Frl 200, titled “Practice and Procedure”, and renamed the chapter as “Rules of Practice and Procedure”.  Document #13901 also adopted a new Part Frl 201 titled “Applicability and Waiver of Substantive Rules”, containing Frl 201.01 titled “Applicability of Plc 200” and Frl 201.02 titled “Waiver of Administrative Rules.” 

 

         Document #13901 replaces all prior filings affecting the rules in the former Chapter Frl 200.  The prior filings included the following documents.  Italics indicate the rules were subject to expiration only pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II:

 

#1689, eff 12-23-80

#2276(e), eff 12-23-82

#2344, eff 4-15-83

#2986, eff 3-18-85

#4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

#6928, eff 1-1-99, EXPIRED: 1-1-07

#9784, INTERIM, eff 9-20-10, EXPIRED: 3-21-11

#9949-A, eff 6-24-11 (Frl 201-Frl 210, Frl 212, Frl 213, and Frl 215)

#9949-B, eff 6-24-11 (Frl 211, Frl 214, and Frl 216)

#12672, eff 11-20-18 (Frl 211, Frl 214, and Frl 216)

 

         As practice and procedure rules, the rules in Document #13789 will not expire except pursuant to RSA 541-A:17, II.

 

PART Frl 201  APPLICABILITY AND WAIVER OF SUBSTANTIVE RULES

 

         Frl 201.01  Rules of Practice and Procedure.  The Plc 200 rules shall govern with regards to all procedures for:

 

         (a)  Adjudicatory proceedings;

 

         (b)  Rulemaking submissions, considerations, and dispositions of rule making petitions;

 

         (c)  Public comment hearings;

 

         (d)  Declaratory rulings;

 

         (e)  All statements of policy and interpretation;

 

         (f)  Explanation of adopted rules; and

 

         (g)  Voluntary surrender of licenses.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 200) #13901, eff 5-12-24

 

            Frl 201.02  Waiver of Administrative Rules.

 

         (a)  The board shall initiate a waiver of a substantive rule upon its own motion by providing affected parties with notice and opportunity to be heard, and issuing an order which finds that waiver would be necessary to advance the purpose of the rules of the board.

 

         (b)  Individuals who wish to request a waiver of a rule shall submit a written request to the board, which includes:

 

(1)  The rule for which a waiver is requested;

 

(2)  The anticipated length of time the requested waiver will be needed;

 

(3)  The reason for requesting the waiver;

 

(4)  Evidence of how the waiver will provide for the health and safety of the consumer or licensee;

 

(5)  A time-limited written compliance plan which sets forth plans to achieve compliance including an estimated date of compliance; and

 

(6)  The signature of the applicant.

 

         (c)  The board shall consider the following when determining whether to approve or deny a waiver:

 

(1)  If adherence to the rule would cause the petitioner unnecessary or undue hardship;

 

(2)  If the requested waiver is necessary because of any neglect or misfeasance on the part of the practitioner;

 

(3)  If enforcement of the rule would injure a third person(s); and

 

(4)  If waiver of the rule would injure a third person(s).

 

         (d)  The board shall approve a waiver of an administrative rule request only if:

 

(1)  Granting a waiver does not have the effect of waiving or modifying a provision of RSA 325;

 

(2)  The petitioner has shown good cause exists pursuant to (c) above to waive the rule; and

 

(3)  The board determines that the individual’s plans for compliance with the rule includes an estimated date of compliance and eventual compliance.

 

         (e)  If the board, after receiving and reviewing a request for a waiver, requires further information or documentation to grant or deny the waiver, the board shall:

 

(1)  Notify the applicant in writing within 30 days; and

 

(2)  Specify the information or documentation the board requires.

 

         (f)  The board shall issue a written approval or denial of the waiver within 60 days of the date the request is received, unless additional information or documentation is required.  If additional information and documentation is required, then the board shall issue a written approval or denial within 60 days of receiving the requested information or documentation.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 200) #13901, eff 5-12-24


CHAPTER Frl 300  REGISTRATION AND LICENSURE

 

Statutory Authority  RSA 325:9 V and RSA 325:12-a

 

         Frl 301.01  Application for Embalmer’s Apprentice License.

 

         (a)  Each applicant for a license to practice as an embalmer’s apprentice in the state of New Hampshire shall comply with the requirements of Plc 304 on initial licensure by submitting the following to the office of professional licensure and certification (OPLC) licensing bureau:

 

(1)  A completed and signed “Universal Application for Initial License” as required by Plc 304.03;

 

(2)  The additional information and documentation specified in Plc 304.04;

 

(3)  A completed “Addendum to the Universal Application for Initial License for Apprentice Embalmers”, revised 9/2025, attesting that they have provided the following information and supporting documentation with their application;

 

a.  An affidavit from the applicant’s sponsoring licensed embalmer stating that the sponsor is accepting the apprentice embalmer for apprenticeship.

 

b.  A copy if their high school diploma or equivalent.

 

         (b)  Each applicant shall submit the apprentice embalmer licensing fee specified in Plc 1002.17

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14; ss by #13252, eff 8-13-21; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.02  Qualifications.  Each applicant for apprentice embalmer shall possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24, EXPIRES: 1-29-25; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.03  Requirements.  Each applicant for apprentice embalmer shall meet the following conditions and requirements to fulfill an apprenticeship:

 

         (a)  Each apprentice embalmer applicant and all of their sponsors shall meet with the board to review the apprenticeship requirements;

 

         (b)  Each apprentice embalmer shall be employed by a funeral establishment inspected by the board during their apprenticeship;

 

         (c)  Each apprentice embalmer shall complete an “Apprentice Embalmer Monthly Report”, revised 9/2025,  documenting the funeral related duties performed each month, by providing the following:

 

(1)  Name and license number of apprentice embalmer;

 

(2)  Month and year of reporting period;

 

(3)  Date of license expiration;

 

(4)  Number of reports the apprentice has completed for each of the following:

 

a.  Funerals directed;

 

b. Embalmings completed with assistance; and 

 

c. Embalmings completed without assistance;

 

(5) A yes or no response to indicate if the apprentice is enrolled in mortuary school and, if applicable, the apprentice’s anticipated graduation date;

 

(6) Signature of the apprentice embalmer that is dated and certifies the accuracy of the information contained in the report; and

 

(7) Signature, and license number of the sponsor that is dated and certifies the accuracy of the information contained in the report;

 

         (d)  Each apprentice embalmer shall work at all times under the instruction and personal supervision of the sponsoring licensed embalmer and funeral director;

 

         (e)  Each apprentice embalmer so employed shall comply with any and all requirements of RSA 325, Frl 100 through Frl 700, and any and all other federal, state, and local laws and rules, and regulations pertaining to the business or profession of embalming and funeral directing;

 

         (f)  Each apprentice embalmer shall notify the OPLC licensing bureau in writing, of any change in the identity of the sponsoring licensed embalmer or funeral director to whom that apprentice embalmer is responsible, and of any change in the name and address of the licensed funeral establishment(s) in which each such apprentice embalmer works;

 

         (g)  Each apprentice embalmer shall successfully complete a full course of instruction of at least 12 months in an accredited institution of mortuary science approved by the American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) and earn an associate’s degree.  No time spent attending embalming school or any postsecondary institution shall constitute any part of the required apprentice funeral home working requirement;

 

         (h)  Each apprentice embalmer shall provide certified transcript(s) of completion of 30 credit hours of postsecondary education; and

 

         (i)  Prior to the conclusion of the apprentice embalmer’s first year as a licensed apprentice embalmer, each apprentice embalmer shall provide, in writing, a letter of acceptance at an accredited school of mortuary science.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.04  Additional Requirements.

 

         (a)  Each apprentice embalmer shall assist in embalming 25 bodies according to (e) below.  Assisted embalmings shall be completed prior to unassisted embalmings.

 

         (b)  Each apprentice embalmer shall embalm 25 bodies unassisted according to (e) below.

 

         (c)  Each apprentice embalmer shall arrange the details required for conducting 25 funerals along with conducting the arrangement conference, assisting families with selection of merchandise, and other phases of the profession.

 

         (d)  Each apprentice embalmer shall complete 25 “Apprentice Funeral Directing Form” revised 9/2025 by providing the following:

 

(1)  Consecutive apprentice funeral directing form number;

 

(2)  Name and license number of apprentice embalmer;

 

(3)  Name and license number of sponsor;

 

(4)  Name and address of funeral home sponsoring apprentice;

 

(5)  Name of deceased;

 

(6)  Place and date of death of deceased;

 

(7)  Type of funeral service, checking all that apply:

 

a.  Full service funeral;

 

b.  Calling hours;

 

c.  Memorial service;

 

d.  Graveside service; or

 

e.  Direct cremation;

 

(8)  Place and time of funeral service;

 

(9)  Name and denomination of officiating clergy;

 

(10)  List of funeral participation, checking all that apply;

 

a.  Assisted in filing death certificate;

 

b.  Assisted family with selection of merchandise;

 

c.  Assisted with arrangement conference;

 

d.  Arranged for clergy;

 

e.  Arranged flowers;

 

f.  Arranged for military honors;

 

g.  Parked cars;

 

h.   Ordered casket or vault;

 

i.   Directed traffic;

 

j.  Drove family car;

 

k.  Drove hearse;

 

l.  Prepared newspaper notices;

 

m.  Received visitors;

 

n.  Drove service car;

 

o.  Seated guests at service;

 

p.  Contacted cemetery;

 

q.  Arranged for cremation;

 

r.  Arranged for fraternal services;

 

s.  Assisted with Social Security and Veterans Administration forms;

 

t.  Assisted to obtain a disposition permit;

 

u.  Assisted with office work; or

 

v.  Carried casket;

 

(11)  Signature of apprentice embalmer and date; and

 

(12)  Signature of sponsor and date.

 

         (e)  Each apprentice embalmer shall complete an “Apprentice Embalming Form” revised 9/2025 for each embalming completed in (a) and (b) above, by providing the following:

 

(1)  Either the unassisted embalming report number, or the assisted embalming report number, using consecutive numbers in chronological order;

 

(2)  Name and license number of apprentice embalmer;

 

(3)  Name and license number of sponsor;

 

(4)  Name and address of funeral home sponsoring apprentice;

 

(5)  Name and date of death of deceased;

 

(6)  Place and time of death;

 

(7)  Primary cause of death;

 

(8)  Date and time body received at funeral home;

 

(9)  Name of funeral home receiving body;

 

(10)  Name of attendants on first call;

 

(11)  Pre-embalming condition of body, checking all that apply;

 

a.  Straight;

 

b.  Partial or full autopsy;

 

c.  Emaciated or dehydrated;

 

d.  Edematous or dropsical;

 

e.  Purge;

 

f.  Tissue gas;

 

g.  Odor;

 

h.  Skin slip;

 

i.  Discoloration;

 

j.  Rigor mortis;

 

k.  Mutilations;

 

l.  Jaundice;

 

m.  Organ or tissue donor, describe;

 

n.  Surgery;

 

o.  Exposure to temperature extremes or

 

p.  Other, describe;

 

(12)  Time between death and embalming;

 

(13)  Body refrigerated, indicating ‘yes’ or ‘no’;

 

(14)  Arteries used for injection;

 

(15)  Veins used for drainage;

 

(16)  Type and index of arterial fluid used, rate of flow;

 

(17)  Method of injection, hand pump, gravity, or machine pressure;

 

(18)  Concentration of arterial fluid injected, and number of gallons injected;

 

(19)  Type and amount of cavity fluid used;

 

(20)  Other supplemental chemicals or fluids used;

 

(21)  Occurrences during embalming, checking all that apply;

 

a.  Clearing;

 

b.  Purge;

 

c.  Distention of face or hands;

 

d.  Firming;

 

e.  Leakage; or

 

f.  Vascular problems;

 

(22)  How any problems were encountered and rectified, with a description;

 

(23)  Checking the following procedures completed;

 

a.  Undressed and washed body;

 

b.  Disinfected and packed orifices;

 

c.  Shaved;

 

d  Set features, including closing eyes and mouth;

 

e.  Inserted cannula drain tubes;

 

f.  Mixed and injected fluids;

 

g.  Aspirated cavities, injected cavity fluid;

 

h.  Treated cavities and viscera for autopsy;

 

i.  Reaspirated cavities;

 

j.  Sutered and sealed incisions;

 

k  Treated skin slip and ulcers;

 

l.  Washed body and prepared for dressing;

 

m.  Dressed and casketed body;

 

n.  Applied cosmetics;

 

o.  Applied restorative measures;

 

p.  Cleaned and sanitized table, floor, prep room;

 

q.  Washed and sterilized instruments;

 

r.  Hypodermic treatment; or

 

s.  Chose injection site, indicating incisions, raised vessels;

 

(24)  Embalming operation complications, indicating “yes” or “no”;

 

(25)  Description of embalming complications and methods used for correction;

 

(26)  Signature of apprentice embalmer and date; and

 

(27)  Signature of sponsor and date.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.05  Effective.

 

         (a)  Licenses shall expire 2 years from the date of issuance.

 

         (b)  Apprenticeships shall become effective on the date the completed application is approved by the OPLC licensing bureau.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.06  Extensions.

 

         (a)  Extension requests shall be made in writing 30 days prior to the expiration date and shall be signed by the requesting apprentice embalmer. Apprentice embalmers shall be limited to one extension. 

 

         (b)  Apprenticeships shall be completed within a contiguous 4 year period and limited to one 2 year extension unless the apprentice embalmer petitions the OPLC licensing bureau, in writing, and shows cause why the licensing bureau should extend special consideration. Cause shall include personal, financial, or medical hardship.  The OPLC licensing bureau shall request that the apprentice embalmer appear before the OPLC licensing bureau.

 

         (c)  Once the 4 year period is exceeded, if the OPLC licensing bureau does not grant a special exception, the apprentice embalmer shall be required to reapply for an embalmer’s apprentice license as specified in Frl 301.

 

         (d)  Failure to file extension requests at least 30 days prior to the expiration date shall be considered a lapsed license.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.07  Responsibilities of Sponsor.

 

         (a)  If there is a change in the employment status of any apprentice embalmer, the entity, or sponsor which employed the apprentice embalmer shall submit to the OPLC licensing bureau a written affidavit indicating the length of time that the apprentice embalmer was employed.  The new entity or sponsor shall notify the OPLC licensing bureau of the new employee apprentice embalmer.

 

         (b)  The sponsor(s) shall be responsible for all acts or omissions of the apprentice embalmer which occur during the apprenticeship. The licensed embalmer and funeral director who serves as the chief executive or chief operating officer of the sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, association, limited liability partnership, limited liability company, or other business organization which employs said apprentice embalmer shall also be responsible for all acts or omissions of the apprentice embalmer which occur in the course of that apprentice embalmer’s employment with that entity.

 

         (c)  The total number of apprentice embalmers employed by any one entity shall not exceed one apprentice embalmer for each 50 cases, or fraction thereof, for which funeral goods and services were provided by the entity during the preceding calendar year.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 301.08  Examination. No prior examination shall be required to become an apprentice embalmer.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35 (formerly Frl 301.09)

 

PART Frl 302  EMBALMER

 

         Frl 302.01  Application for Embalmer License.

 

         (a)  Each applicant for a license to practice as an embalmer in the state of New Hampshire, and who is not currently licensed in New Hampshire or another jurisdiction, shall submit the following to the OPLC licensing bureau using the portal available via www.oplc.nh.gov or, if the portal is not available or if submitting the application via the portal is not practicable for the applicant, by mailing a paper application to the address specified in Plc 103.03;

 

(1)  A signed and completed “Universal Application for Initial License”, as required by Plc 304.03 and Plc 304.05;

 

(2)  The additional information or documentation specified in Plc 304.04, as applicable;

 

(3)  The application-related fees for initial licensure, pursuant to Plc 1002.17 unless Plc 304.02(a) applies;

 

(4)  An affidavit signed by all sponsor(s) indicating that the apprentice embalmer has successfully completed the requirements set forth in Frl 301.03 and Frl 301.04; and

 

(5)  An affidavit of good professional character that is signed and attested to by a New Hampshire licensed funeral director or embalmer.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #13252, eff 8-13-21; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

     Frl 302.02  Qualifications.  Each applicant shall meet the qualifications as set forth in RSA 325:13.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 302.03  Requirements.  Each applicant shall pass a practical and oral examination.

 

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 302.04  Practical and Oral Examination.

 

         (a)  Each applicant shall have served an apprenticeship as described in Frl 301.03 to be eligible to take the practical and oral examination.

 

         (b)  Each applicant shall receive a letter of eligibility for the practical and oral examination from the OPLC licensing bureau.  This letter shall be presented to the board member administering the examination.

 

         (c)  Oral questions shall be part of the practical examination. These questions shall pertain to embalming as defined in RSA 325:1, VI and shall be administered by the board member conducting the examination.

 

         (d)  In order to be eligible for licensure, each applicant shall successfully complete the practical and oral examination as confirmed by the board member administering the examination.

 

         (e)  Each applicant shall submit the examination fee pursuant to Plc 1002.17 for each examination at or before the time of examination.

 

         (f)  Any applicant that fails the practical and oral examination shall submit to the OPLC licensing bureau a written request for reexamination after 30 days.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

PART Frl 303  FUNERAL DIRECTOR

 

         Frl 303.01  Application for Funeral Director’s License.  An application for funeral director’s license shall consist of a written request for the board to administer the written examination.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 303.02  Qualifications.  Each applicant shall meet the qualifications as set forth in RSA 325:14.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

         Frl 303.03  Written Examination.

 

         (a)  The written examination shall consist of questions derived from RSA 5-C, RSA 289, RSA 290, RSA 325, RSA 325-A, RSA 611-B, and administrative rules Frl 100 through Frl 700;

 

         (b)  Each applicant shall submit the written examination fee pursuant to Plc 1002.19 for each examination, at or before the time of examination.

 

         (c)  An applicant shall pass the written examination with a minimum grade of 75% to be eligible for licensure.  Any applicant that fails the written examination shall submit to the OPLC licensing bureau a written request for reexamination after 30 days.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #8257, eff 1-15-05, EXPIRED: 1-15-13

 

New.  #10310, INTERIM, eff 4-12-13, EXPIRES: 10-9-13; ss by #10567, eff 5-1-14, EXPIRED: 5-1-24

 

New.  #14041, INTERIM, eff 8-2-24; ss by #14370, eff 11-14-25, EXPIRES: 11-14-35

 

PART Frl 304  UNLICENSED PERSONNEL

 

          Frl 304.01  Registration Procedure.

 

          (a)  Upon employment of an unlicensed individual the funeral home owner/manager shall register the employee with the board, in writing, within 30 days.

 

          (b)  Registration shall include:

 

(1)  The individual’s name;

 

(2)  Address;

 

(3)  Date of employment and

 

(4)  Employment status, either full-time at 40 hours per week or part-time at less than 40 hours per week or per-diem.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

    Frl 304.02  Limitation of Unlicensed Personnel.

 

          (a)  Unlicensed personnel shall not be employed to perform activities that are solely the functions of a licensed funeral director, licensed embalmer or licensed apprentice, including:

 

(1)  Making funeral arrangements;

 

(2)  Embalming a body or being present in an embalming room during an embalming procedure; or

 

(3)  Conducting funerals, including:

 

a.  Funeral services;

 

b.  Memorial services;

 

c.  Graveside services; or

 

d.  Any other services recognized by the public to be conducted by a licensed funeral director.

 

          (b)  Unlicensed personnel, acting under the direction of a licensed funeral director, may assist in transporting a deceased human being from the place of death to a funeral home, crematory or cemetery. 

 

          (c)  Unlicensed personnel may in the presence of a licensed funeral director or embalmer assist in other aspects of funeral service including lifting a deceased human body at the funeral home or assisting a licensed funeral director during a visitation, funeral service, memorial service, graveside service or any other service recognized by the public as a funeral.

 

          (d)  The funeral home and individual licensee shall be fully accountable for all actions of the unlicensed employee.

 

Source.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

          Frl 304.03  Violations.

 

          (a)  Other than immediate license suspensions authorized by RSA 541-A:30, III the board shall impose disciplinary sanctions for violations of this part only:

 

(1)  After prior notice and an opportunity to be heard; or

 

(2)  Pursuant to a mutually agreed upon settlement or consent decree.

 

          (b)  When the board receives notice that a licensee has been subjected to disciplinary action related to professional conduct by the licensing authority of another jurisdiction, the board shall issue an order providing the opportunity for a hearing and directing the licensee to demonstrate why reciprocal discipline should note be imposed in New Hampshire.

 

          (c)  In a disciplinary proceeding brought on the basis of discipline imposed in another jurisdiction the certificate holder shall be subject to any disciplinary sanction authorized by RSA 325:32, III after considering the presence of aggravating and mitigating circumstances as specified in Frl 304.03(f) and (g).

 

          (d)  After a finding that misconduct has occurred, the board shall impose one or more of the disciplinary sanctions authorized by RSA 325:32, III.

 

          (e)  The board shall determine the sanctions to be imposed after considering the presence of aggravating or mitigating circumstances as specified in Frl 304.03(f) and (g).

 

          (f)  The following shall be considered aggravating circumstances:

 

(1)  The seriousness of the offense;

 

(2)  The licensee’s prior disciplinary record;

 

(3)  Lack of willingness to cooperate with the board;

 

(4)  Potential harm to public health and safety; and

 

(5)  The purpose of the rule or statute violated.

 

          (g)  The following shall be considered mitigating circumstances:

 

(1)  Absence of a prior disciplinary record;

 

(2)  Willingness to cooperate with the board;

 

(3)  Acknowledgement of his or her wrongdoing;

 

(4)  The purpose of the rule or statute violated.

 

Source.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

PART Frl 305 - RESERVED

 

PART Frl 306 - RESERVED

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

PART Frl 307  FEE SCHEDULE

 

          Frl 307.01  Fees.  Fees shall apply as specified in Plc 1002.17.

 

 

Source.  #6928, eff 1-1-99, EXPIRED: 1-1-07

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-13-09; ss by #12128, eff 3-10-17; ss by #14371, eff 11-15-25, EXPIRES: 11-15-35

 

PART Frl 308  EYE PROCUREMENT

 

          Frl 308.01  Eye Procurement.  In accordance with RSA 325:31-a, an individual desiring to perform eye procurement shall successfully complete a course of training acceptable to a procurement organization as defined in RSA 291-A:2, XX.

 

Source.  #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18


CHAPTER Frl 400  CONTINUED STATUS

 

PART Frl 401 - 402 - RESERVED

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94; amd by #4937, eff 9-24-90, EXPIRED: 9-24-96

 

PART Frl 403  CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

          Frl 403.01  Purpose.

 

          The purpose of Frl 403 is to require all licensed embalmers and funeral directors to obtain continuing education as a condition for renewal of their licenses in order to maintain the high standards of the profession and business of funeral directing and embalming, and to establish criteria for approval of continuing education programs to be used in fulfilling such continuing education requirements.

 

Source.  #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09; ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.02  Definitions.

 

          (a) “Biennial licensing period” means the license period occurring every two years and ending June 30 every odd numbered year.

 

          (b)  "Board approved programs or courses" means continuing education which has been reviewed and recommended by the continuing education review committee and approved by the board.

 

          (c) "Continuing education" means approved post-licensure education designed to maintain professional competence in the practice of funeral directing and embalming, improve professional skills, and preserve standards for the purpose of protecting the health and welfare of the citizens in the state of New Hampshire.

 

          (d)  "Continuing education review committee (CERC)" means a group of at least 2 individuals or board members appointed by the board to review programs or courses and make recommendations relative to the standards of such continuing education.

 

          (e)  "Continuing education credit" means one hour of satisfactory participation in an accredited or approved program or course of continuing education.

 

          (f)  "Certification of attendance and/or participation" means a document, issued to a particular licensee by a provider certifying that the licensee has satisfactorily completed a specified number of continuing education credits.

 

          (g)  "Didactic" means continuing education earned via live presentation.

 

Source.  #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #6516, eff 5-24-97; amd by #7420, eff 1-1-01; paragraphs (a)-(h) & (j) EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.01); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

    Frl 403.03  Renewal Requirements.

 

          (a)  The board shall not issue license renewals until proof has been submitted, indicating the completion of continuing education programs or courses, approved by the board, during the 2-years immediately preceding the application for renewal as required by Frl 403.03(f).      

 

          (b)  The licensee shall submit to the board proof of successful program or course completion.  The licensee shall maintain such documentation for a period of not less than 2 biennial licensing periods.

 

          (c)  Proof of successful program or course completion shall be in the form of a certificate which shall contain at a minimum the following:

 

(1)  The name of the provider;

 

(2)  The completion date of the continuing education program;

 

(3)  The name of the participant;

 

(4)  The title of the program; and

 

(5)  The number of continuing education credits the program or course has been assigned.

 

          (d)  A renewal application submitted by a licensee that is not in compliance with the requirements of Frl 403.03(f) shall not be accepted or processed and shall be returned to the applicant.

 

          (e)  Every embalmer and funeral director submitting application for the first renewal following issuance of the original license, shall complete 14 hours of continuing education credit if licensed more than 12 months prior to expiration and 7 hours of continuing education credit if licensed less than 12 months  prior to expiration.

 

          (f)  Every embalmer and funeral director shall complete 14 hours of continuing education credits every biennial licensing period.

 

          (g)  Continuing education credits shall not be recognized for the same program attended or completed within the same biennial licensing period.

 

          (h)  Continuing education approval is granted on a biennial basis ending June 30th every odd numbered year.

 

Source.  #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.02); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.04  Home Study or Internet Continuing Education.

 

          (a)  Continuing education credit shall be granted for the completion of home study or online internet programs or courses, provided that such programs or courses require the completion of a written exam by the funeral director or embalmer to be scored by the provider.

 

          (b)  Satellite transmissions which provide for group discussion and include a facilitator shall be granted credit.

 

          (c)  A maximum of 10 hours in this category may be applied toward fulfilling the total continuing education credit requirements for biennial license renewal.

 

          (d) Notwithstanding (c) above, due to the governor’s executive order 12, which expired June 11, 2021, during the renewal cycle ending in June 30, 2021, all continuing education hours may be completed via home study or online internet programs or courses.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.05); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17; ss by #13252, eff 8-13-21

 

          Frl 403.05  Postgraduate Funeral Science Curricula.

 

          A funeral director or embalmer who matriculates in a postgraduate funeral science curriculum or program shall be awarded continuing education credits for satisfactory completion of each course within said curriculum or program.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.07); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.06  Waivers.

 

          (a)  Any licensee with a serious illness, disability, hardship, or extenuating circumstances shall notify the Board, in writing, and request a waiver of Frl 403 not less than 30 days prior to June 30th of a biennial licensing period. The letter of request shall include documentation from the licensee's physician to verify the illness or disability. The Board shall have the power to review the request for a waiver of all or a portion of the continuing education requirements as defined in Frl 403.03(f) on a case by case basis.

 

          (b)  The board shall approve or deny a waiver request, in writing, within 30 days of receipt of the request.

 

          (c)  The board shall approve a waiver request only if:

 

(1)  The length of time an illness, disability, hardship, or extenuating circumstances exceeds 6 months; and

 

(2)  The licensee has provided a plan for obtaining the required continuing education credits and an estimated date of completion.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.08); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.07  Reinstatement.  Any individual desiring reinstatement of his or her license shall show evidence of completion of at least the following minimum continuing education credits:

 

          (a)  Individuals who have not held an active license for 3 months or less shall complete 14 hours of continuing education credit, of which up to 10 hours may be home study completed pursuant to Frl 403.04 (f);

 

          (b)  Individuals who have not held an active license for more than 3 months and less than 6 years shall complete the following continuing education credits;

 

(1)  Four hours continuing education of Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) 29 CFR Part 1910 compliance training;

 

(2)  Four hours continuing education of bloodborne pathogen training;

 

(3)  Four hours continuing education of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 16 CFR Part 453 compliance training;

 

(4)  One hour continuing education of current didactic compliance training of Secretary of State, Division of Vital Records Administration automated death registration submission procedures; and

 

(5)  Four hours continuing education of current funeral and cremation trends;

 

          (c)  Individuals who have not held an active license for more than six (6) years shall, in additional to the requirements set forth in Frl 403.07(b), complete the following:

 

(1)  Pass a practical examination; and

 

(2) Pass a written examination on the current state laws and rules governing the practice of funeral directing and embalming in the State of New Hampshire.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.09); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.08  Penalty.  Any funeral director or embalmer who alters, forges, or falsifies, or causes to be altered, forged, or falsified any documents, or records required to be kept or submitted by this rule shall be subject to disciplinary action under RSA 325:32, II and Frl 207.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.10); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.09  Continuing Funeral Service Education Requirements.

 

          (a)  In order to obtain continuing education credit the provider, funeral director or embalmer shall submit a written request for approval of programs or courses.

 

          (b)  The written request shall at a minimum contain the following:

 

(1)  The name of the provider;

 

(2)  The title of the program or course;

 

(3)  Date and location of the program or course;

 

(4)  The number of continuing education credits requested for the program or course;

 

(5)  The name of the program or course presenters;

 

(6)  A copy of the program or course description, agenda and handout materials;

 

(7)  A biographical sketch of each presenter: and

 

(8)  A sample certificate of attendance or completion.

 

          (c)  The following programs or courses shall be approved for continuing education credit:

 

(1)  Funeral service/funeral home management to include:

 

a.  Subjects related to meeting the needs of families and the community funeral service;

 

b.  Management functions and concepts as related to funeral service;

 

c.  Management of human resources that include personnel management relevant to funeral service operations;

 

d.  Financial management;

 

e.  Marketing management to include:

 

1.  Merchandising;

 

(i)  Casket types and materials, not brand specific;

 

(ii)  Vault types and materials, not brand specific;

 

(iii)  Selection room guidelines, not brand specific;

 

(iv)  Urns, not brand specific; and

 

(v)  Display, not brand specific;

 

2.  Product;

 

3.  Price;

 

4.  Pricing methods, not brand specific;

 

5.  Distribution; and

 

6.  Promotion of funeral service to include advertising, public relations and customer relations;

 

(2)  Requirements of facilities and equipment to include:

 

a.  Requirements for state licensure;

 

b.  Provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act applicable to funeral service; and

 

c.  OSHA standards and requirements relevant to funeral service;

 

(3)  Office systems and records to include:

 

a.  Client service records such as case reports, first call methods, arrangement forms, sales contracts, and disclaimers;

 

b.  Records required by government agencies; and

 

c.  Required personnel records;

 

(4)  Funeral service operational procedures to include:

 

a.  Notification of death;

 

b.  Transfer of remains or removal of remains from place of death;

 

c.  Arrangement conference or statistical information recovery; and

 

d.  Dressing, casketing, and preparing the deceased for viewing by family or public;

 

(5)  Preparing and directing of funeral;

 

(6)  Post need services, aftercare, and estate procedures;

 

(7)  Disaster procedures to include:

 

a.  Role of funeral professionals and other personnel;

 

b.  Responses to disasters, both natural and man made;

 

c.  General consequences and concerns that occur due to disasters;

 

d.  Investigational procedures and concerns related to funeral personnel; and

 

e.  Federal, state, and local concerns and roles in disasters;

 

(8)  Trends and changes in funeral service and areas related to funeral service, including:

 

a.  Population and death projections pertaining to funeral service;

 

b.  The place of death and how it has changed as a result of medical technology;

 

c.  Changes in the family unit structure;

 

d.  Religion and the clergy;

 

e.  Alternatives to current legal forms of disposition;

 

f.  Regulatory issues;

 

g.  Recruitment and retention of personnel in funeral service;

 

h.  Diversity in funeral service employment;

 

i.  Role of computers and their effects in funeral service;

 

j.  Pre-need service and pre-financing of funerals and its growth in the industry;

 

k.  World-wide Funeral customs; and

 

l.  Changing attitudes of consumers relative to funeral service;

 

(9)  Funeral service law;

 

(10)  NH state statutes and administrative rules;

 

(11)  Religious customs in funeral service;

 

(12)  History of funeral service;

 

(13)  Accounting as related to funeral law;

 

(14)  Business law;

 

(15)  Restorative art;

 

(16)  Embalming and embalming theory;

 

(17)  Psychology including;

 

a.  Grief processes; and

 

b.  Effects of grief on family, caregivers, and funeral professionals;

 

(18)  Sociology including;

 

a.  Cultural and ethnic sociology; and

 

b.  Society as related to funeral service;

 

(19)  Cremation including;

 

a.  Trends;

 

b.  Statistics;

 

c.  Laws and rules; and

 

d.  Training programs required for Crematory Operator certification;

 

(20)  Anatomy and physiology;

 

(21)  Pre-need funeral service laws and rules:

 

(22)  Veteran Administration (VA) including;

 

a.  Laws;

 

b.  Benefits;

 

c.  Procedures; and

 

d.  VA and national cemetery requirements and procedures;

 

(23)  Military including:

 

a.  Mortuary affairs;

 

b.  Benefits as related to funeral service;

 

c.  National cemetery requirements and procedures; and

 

d. Military burials;

 

(24)  Organ procurement including:

 

a.  Trends; and

 

b.  Clinical harvesting of organs;

 

(25)  Agencies not previously mentioned that are relevant to funeral service;

 

(26)  Federal trade commission, especially its funeral rule, 16 CFR 453;

 

(27)  Insurance seminars that are relevant to pre-need funeral services; and

 

(28)  Trade association business meeting;

 

          (d)  The following programs or courses shall not be approved for continuing education credit:

 

(1)  Courses within the normal college curriculum such as english, history, and social studies;

 

(2)  Courses that deal with sales and advertising of brand specific products only and would not further educate a licensee as to his or her product knowledge and development of funeral procedures and management models designed to increase the level of service provided to the consumer;

 

(3)  Courses that deal with promoting brand specific marketing and merchandising of funeral goods and funeral services;

 

(4)  Courses in psychology and sociology that are not grief specific to families, care-givers, and funeral professionals including participation in an ongoing grief support group(s);

 

(5)  Courses that are offered for academic credit by a mortuary science college approved by the American Board of Funeral Service Education, and taken to obtain licensure as a funeral director or embalmer shall not be approved;

 

(6)  Courses involving cemetery operations and procedures shall not be construed as allowable topics under the funeral service management curriculum in that because regulation of cemeteries is not in the scope of regulation and authority of the board;

 

(7)  Courses and instruction in non-human related services such as but not limited to pets and merchandising and related topics; and

 

(8)  Activities such as social occasions, meals, receptions, sporting events, and business meetings to include sales meetings, or exhibits displayed at such activities.

 

          (e)  The board shall monitor, inspect, or review any approved continuing education program or course as necessary to determine compliance, and upon evidence of variations in the program presented from the program approved, shall disapprove any or all of the approved hours granted to the course or program if the board determines the program or course is not in compliance with these rules.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09 (from Frl 403.11); ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

          Frl 403.10  Procedure for Funeral Service Program or Course Approval.

 

          (a)  A continuing education program or course shall be recognized and approved by the board upon submission of a completed application for approval of said program or course, provided that said sponsor meets all the following requirements:

 

(1)  The sponsor establishes and maintains an accurate record of program or course attendance showing the date of the program or course, the location at which the program or course was given, the name of each person who attended, and the license or registration number of each person who attended;

 

(2)  The sponsor issues certificates or other written evidence of completion of the program or course to each person who attends the entire program or course;

 

(3)  Names and signatures of persons authorized to certify attendance forms are completed and submitted for each date, time and location the program or course will be offered; 

 

(4)  If multiple courses are being offered for one program, then all courses are listed together provided the same individual(s) are certifying attendance for all courses;

 

(5)  The sponsor does not issue certificates or other written evidence of completion of the program or course until the program or course is completed;

 

(6)  The program or course meets all applicable requirements of Frl 403.09(c); and

 

(7)  The sponsor maintains a copy of the program or course outline, and all records required by Frl 403.09(b) for a period of at least two years from the date on which the program or course is presented.

 

Source.  #6516, eff 5-24-97, EXPIRED: 5-24-05

 

New.  #9387, eff 2-12-09; ss by #12129, eff 3-10-17

 

PART Frl 404  ONGOING REQUIREMENTS

 

          Frl 404.01  Conducting of Funeral.  No funeral director shall permit or request a person, who is not licensed by the board as a funeral director or apprentice embalmer to arrange, prearrange, conduct, direct or supervise a funeral.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88; amd by #4937, eff 9-24-90, EXPIRED: 9-24-96

 

New.  #10548, eff 3-21-14

 

          Frl 404.02  Financial Disclosure.

 

          (a)  Every funeral establishment in this state or the funeral service licensee thereof shall give or cause to be given to the person or persons making funeral arrangements or arranging for the disposition of a dead human body a written statement of funeral goods and services selected.

 

          (b)  The written statement of funeral goods and services selected shall be given, at the time the funeral arrangements are completed and prior to the time of rendering the service and providing the merchandise except for the removal of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home.

 

          (c)  The written statement of funeral goods and services selected shall, to the extent then known, include:

 

(1)  The price of the service(s) that the person or persons have selected and what is included therein;

 

(2)  The price of each of the supplemental items of service and merchandise requested; and

 

(3)  The amount involved for each of the items for which the firm will advance monies as an accommodation to the family.

 

          (d)  A statement of funeral goods and services selected shall be signed by the licensed funeral director making the arrangements with a copy given for retention to the financially responsible party(ies).  Said signature shall be original in format.  A copy of the signed statement shall be retained by the funeral establishment for 6 years and made available upon inspection of the funeral establishment.

 

          (e)  A statement of funeral goods and services selected shall include such other disclosure standards as found in 16 C.F.R. Section 453 (Federal Trade Commission).

 

Source.  #10548, eff 3-21-14

 

          Frl 404.03  Entombment.  When a body is entombed to await burial, the funeral establishment of record in charge of the burial, shall label the casket to identify the body.  A body shall be embalmed when it shall be entombed for 24 hours or more.  The funeral establishment of record shall be responsible for taking corrective action within 24 hours of becoming aware of any leakage or strong odor resulting from an entombed body.  Corrective action shall include any procedure that will prevent exposure to the public and/or any potential health hazard.

 

Source.  #10548, eff 3-21-14

 

CHAPTER Frl 500  ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

 

PART Frl 501  ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

 

          Frl 501.01  Ethical and Professional Standards. All licensees shall comply with the “Code of Professional Conduct” of the National Funeral Directors Association, as amended March 10, 2008, available as noted in Appendix II.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88,
EXPIRED: 1-20-94

 

New.  #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

CHAPTER Frl 600  LICENSED FUNERAL HOME

 

Statutory Authority:  RSA 325:9

 

PART Frl 601  DEFINITIONS

 

          Frl 601.01  Definitions.  Except where the context makes another meaning manifest, the following words have the meanings indicated when used in this chapter:

 

          (a)  “Funeral home” means “funeral home” as defined in RSA 325:1, IX.  The term “funeral home” also includes a chapel, which is a location at which funeral services are provided, but which does not have a preparation room.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

PART Frl 602  LICENSURE

 

          Frl 602.01  Notification of Board.

 

          (a)  A funeral director who changes the location of his or her funeral home, or who adds a funeral home away from their main or primary funeral home, or both, or who purchases a funeral home, shall request an inspection within 10 days of the close of the transaction or relocation. 

 

          (b)  The notification shall contain the following:

 

(1)  The name and address of the funeral home;

 

(2)  Whether the facility is a funeral home or chapel;

 

(3)  The telephone number; and

 

(4)  Name of owner(s) and name(s) of licensed New Hampshire funeral directors who are employed by the funeral home(s) for a minimum of 40 hours per week.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.02  Personnel.

 

          (a)  Upon employment of licensed personnel, funeral home owners or managers shall provide the board with the following information regarding those personnel:

 

(1)  Name(s);

 

(2)  Position(s);

 

(3)  License certificate number(s); and

 

(4)  Full-time or part-time status. 

 

          (b)  All certificates of licensure of a funeral director, embalmer, or apprentice employed by the funeral home shall be displayed in a place clearly visible to the general public.  In instances of multiple funeral homes, a photocopy of the license shall be displayed at each remote location, with the original displayed within the primary funeral home.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.03  Operations.  The sale or provision of the following goods or services shall require licensure as a funeral home, except as provided in RSA 290:

 

          (a)  Consulting with members of the general public about, or making arrangements concerning the disposition of human remains, including arrangements for cremation, for compensation;

 

          (b)  Removing a deceased human body from a place of death;

 

          (c)  Transporting human remains;

 

          (d)  Embalming human remains;

 

          (e)  Performing restorative and cosmetic work on human remains, including hairdressing;

 

          (f)  Dressing human remains;

 

          (g)  Casketing human remains;

 

          (h)  Making burial, cemetery, cremation or anatomical gift arrangements at the request of the decedent or decedent’s family, or any other person(s) of proper legal authority pursuant to RSA 290:16 IV;

 

          (i)  Providing of professional vehicles in connection with a funeral service;

 

          (j) Arranging for religious services and clergy for funeral or memorial services and the final disposition of human remains;

 

          (k)  Providing assistance during visiting hours and at the funeral service, and for other funeral service related functions and responsibilities;

 

          (l)  Securing and processing required documents, such as death certificates, burial permits, certified copies of the death certificate, and documents for foreign shipment of human remains;

 

          (m)  Making arrangements with medical examiners;

 

          (n)  Preparing, negotiating or executing any pre-need funeral contract, or receiving any funds tendered as payment for the funeral goods or services identified in such a pre-need funeral contract; or

 

          (o)  Engaging in such other activities considered to be a part of the business, practice, science or profession of embalming or funeral directing as commonly practiced.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.04  Licensed Personnel.  All aspects of funeral directing and embalming, arranged and conducted by a funeral home, shall be conducted by a licensed funeral director or licensed funeral apprentice.  Unlicensed personnel may assist in conducting a funeral service or visitation, but only in the presence of a licensed funeral director or licensed funeral apprentice.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.05  License Required.  Any funeral service, shipping service, direct disposition service, trade service, or any service which prepares dead human bodies for final disposition, shall be licensed as a funeral home.  Nothing herein contained shall be construed or interpreted to prohibit the practice of funeral directing and embalming by more than one funeral home from the same physical location.  Licensed funeral directors or licensed embalmers leasing space in a licensed funeral home, but providing funeral service independently as a separate business, shall be engaged in the operation of a separate and distinct funeral home, and therefore shall obtain a funeral home license and shall be subject to inspection as required under Frl 603.01.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.06  Notification.  Any person desiring to construct or purchase a funeral home shall notify the board in writing.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.07  Issuing a License.  A license shall be issued upon successful completion of an inspection pursuant to Frl 603.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.08  Accessibility.  A funeral home shall be accessible to individuals with disabilities to the extent required by all applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act 42 U.S.C.12101 et seq., 28 CFR Part 35, and all applicable provisions of any other federal, state, or local laws and regulations.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.09  Preparation Room.  A funeral home shall include a preparation room equipped as defined in Frl 700.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.10  Chapel.  A funeral home shall include a chapel or room specifically for providing or conducting visitation, a funeral service, or memorial service.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.11  Sanitary Facilities.  A funeral home shall contain such toilets, lavatories and other sanitary facilities for men and women as may be required by applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.12  Funeral Home Maintenance.

 

          (a)  The general interior of the funeral home shall be continually maintained to ensure that public and non-public areas are clean and safe.  All flooring, walls, and ceilings shall be free of holes, peeling paint, or any other deterioration beyond reasonable wear and tear.  All outside openings shall be screened, covered, or otherwise sealed to prevent the entrance of insects or rodents.

 

          (b)  The general exterior and overall grounds of the funeral home shall be continually maintained to ensure that areas of public travel are free of debris and hazards that could cause possible injury.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.13  Documentation.

 

          (a)  A funeral home shall retain and offer for review and retention all documentation stipulated by the Federal Trade Commission and the Funeral Rule 16 CFR 453.  Said documentation shall be in compliance with the rules set forth by the Federal Trade Commission and the Funeral Rule 16 CFR 453.

 

          (b)  Any funeral chapel or location operating as a separate facility directly associated with a funeral home shall offer for review and retention to consumers, all documentation required by the Federal Trade Commission and the Funeral Rule 16 CFR 453, and said documentation shall depict the legal name, address and phone number of all locations affiliated with the funeral home. 

 

          (c)  All services and associated costs offered to the consumer by a funeral chapel or location operating in direct association with a funeral home shall be the same as those being offered by the primary funeral home.

 

          (d)  All websites directly related to a funeral home shall be maintained with current documentation and information associated with the funeral home, funeral chapel or location, and said documentation shall be in compliance with the rules set forth by the Federal Trade Commission and the Funeral Rule 16 CFR 453.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.14  Documentation Retention.

 

          (a)  Price lists shall be retained for a minimum of three years following the date on which they are no longer effective.

 

          (b)  Itemized statements of funeral goods and services shall be retained for a minimum of six years from the date on which arrangements were made.

 

          (c)  All documents, pre-need and at-need, shall be maintained on the premises and made available for inspection.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 602.15  Signage.  Every funeral home shall maintain a clearly legible exterior sign displaying the legal name of the funeral home.  The sign shall be placed in a location that is clearly visible to the public.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

PART Frl 603  INSPECTION

 

         Frl 603.01  Funeral Home Inspections.

 

         (a)  The board shall inspect every funeral home or chapel where funeral directing is conducted or where embalming is practiced at least once every 3 years but no more than 2 times per year unless just cause such as evidence of repeated complaints.  Inspections shall be performed by members of the board or the board’s appointed designee, and shall be conducted in the presence of the owner(s) or a licensed New Hampshire funeral director employed by the funeral home.

 

         (b)  Upon notification from the applicant that the establishment for which they have requested a license is ready for inspection, the board shall conduct an inspection pursuant to Frl 603.

 

         (c)  Once every 3 years the board shall request each licensee’s consent to conduct a routine inspection and if such consent is given, the board shall conduct an inspection.

 

         (d)  If a request pursuant to (c) above is denied, or if the board determines it is necessary to conduct a surprise inspection, the board shall obtain an administrative warrant pursuant to RSA 595-B and shall then conduct the inspection.

 

         (e)  Any inspection shall be conducted, pursuant to Frl 603, during regular business hours for the purpose of inspecting such records and conducting such investigations as may reasonably be necessary to ensure that the funeral home or chapel, and its owners and employees, are in compliance with all applicable requirements set forth in Frl 700 and all other applicable federal, state, and local laws or regulations.

 

         (f)  The inspection report shall be completed by a board member or the board’s authorized designee and shall include the following:

 

(1)  The name of the funeral home or chapel, its physical address, telephone number, fax number, e-mail, and web site address;

 

(2)  The funeral home or chapel license number, the date and time of inspection, the type of inspection, and type of ownership;

 

(3)  The name, position, license number and hours worked for each employee of the funeral home or chapel;

 

(4)  The name and address of the financial institution where pre-need funds are deposited including name of any licensed insurance agent;

 

(5)  Whether the funeral home or chapel displays certificates of inspection and certificates of licensed individuals in accordance with Frl 602.02 (b) and Frl 603.02;

 

(6)  Whether the funeral home or chapel complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act;

 

(7)  Whether the funeral home or chapel complies with Frl 602.10, Frl 602.11, Frl 602.12 (a) and (b);

 

(8)  Whether the funeral home or chapel maintains a clearly legible exterior sign in accordance with Frl 602.15;

 

(9)  Whether the funeral home or chapel maintains a preparation room in compliance with Frl 701.01 (a)-(r);

 

(10)  Whether the funeral home or chapel maintains proper sanitation and universal precautions in compliance with Frl 701.02 (c)-(f);

 

(11)  Whether the funeral home or chapel maintains a general price list, casket price list, outer burial container price list, and statement of funeral goods and services selected disclosures in compliance with the Funeral Rule 16 CFR 453;

 

(12)  Obtain copies of the general price list, casket price list, statement of funeral goods and services selected, outer burial container price list and pre-need funeral contract;

 

(13)  Whether the funeral home or chapel complies with the web site requirements in Frl 602.13 (d);

 

(14)  Whether the funeral home or chapel complies with the pre-need funeral contracts requirements in RSA 325:46-a I and funds deposited in accordance with RSA 325:45;

 

(15)  The date of inspection and signature of inspector; and

 

(16)  The date, signature, and title of funeral home representative, which shall represent the funeral home representative’s acknowledgement that he or she was present during the inspection.

 

         (g)  Funeral home inspection fees shall be as specified in Frl 307.01, Table 307-2.

 

         (h)  Interference with, or the obstruction of, a board member or an authorized designee in the performance of their respective duties by an owner, agent, or employee of the funeral home or chapel shall be considered sufficient cause for suspension or revocation of the funeral director’s license.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15; ss by 13252, eff 8-13-21

 

          Frl 603.02  Approval.  Upon the board’s approval of such funeral home or chapel, the board shall issue a certificate of inspection that shall be displayed in a place viewable by the general public within each facility licensed by the board.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 603.03  Failure.  Upon the failure of such an inspection the board shall notify the owner or New Hampshire licensed funeral director of the deficiencies cited.  In cases of deficiencies within the preparation room, a reasonable time shall be 120 days from the receipt of a certified letter, and in cases of document deficiencies, 30 days from such receipt, and in all other cases a reasonable time to correct such deficiencies and allow for reinspection, beginning from the receipt of the certified letter.  A certificate of inspection shall not be issued by the board until all deficiencies are rectified.  Willful non-compliance shall result in the suspension of the owner’s or funeral director’s license in accordance with RSA 325:32 and 33. 

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 603.04  Reinspection.

 

          (a)  A funeral home or chapel that fails inspection shall be reinspected by a board member and the initial inspector, after receipt of notification that the cited deficiencies have been corrected.  In any event, the reinspection shall be performed by at least 2 members of the board.

 

          (b)  At the board’s discretion, photographs of the correction of the cited deficiencies may be submitted, and the board and the original inspector may approve the corrective actions without the requirement of an in person reinspection, so long as the photographs clearly demonstrate that the cited deficiencies have been corrected.  In such case, no reinspection fee shall be required.

 

          (c)  As specified in Frl 307.01, Table 307-2 the reinspection fee shall be $100.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 

          Frl 603.05  Emergency Action.

 

If it is determined that the public health’s safety or welfare requires emergency action the board shall suspend the license of the funeral director in accordance with RSA 541-A:30, III, and the funeral home or chapel shall
not be allowed to operate until all deficiencies noted within the inspection report are rectified and a reinspection by a board member and the initial inspector has been completed and has determined that all corrective actions have been completed.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by#2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #10988, eff 12-7-15

 


CHAPTER Frl 700  PREPARATION ROOM

 

Statutory Authority: RSA 325:16

 

PART Frl 701  REQUIREMENTS AND EQUIPMENT

 

          Frl 701.01  Preparation Room Requirements and Equipment.  A funeral home shall have a preparation room meeting the following minimum requirements:

 

          (a)  The preparation room shall be adequate in size and lighting to accommodate all necessary equipment and instruments to properly embalm and or prepare deceased human bodies for burial, cremation or other final disposition.  There shall be storage shelves or cabinets for all supplies, instruments, and equipment;

 

          (b)  The walls and ceiling shall be as air-tight as possible.  The walls shall run from floor to ceiling and shall be of finished tile or other material finished with enamel, enamel paint, or other waterproof material, and contain no open seams, cracks or chips;

 

          (c)  The floor shall be constructed of tile, cement, linoleum, or like composite materials which are impervious to water or covered with materials which are impervious to water.  Flooring materials shall not contain cracks, chips or the like which would allow for fluids to seep into the exposed area making proper cleaning of the floors impossible;

 

          (d)  Any preparation room constructed after May 17, 2010 shall be heated and air-conditioned;

 

          (e)  Any preparation room renovated after October 31, 2018 shall be heated and air-conditioned;

 

          (f)  The preparation room shall be vented with an exhaust fan.  All fumes shall be ventilated to the outside atmosphere. The location of the exhaust fan shall be at the foot-end of the embalming table and in close proximity to the area of the embalming waste sink. The construction of the preparation room shall be such that odors cannot enter the rest of the building.  Any new construction shall have an exhaust fan located at the foot-end of the embalming table below the level of the table;

 

          (g)  All opening windows and outside doors shall be adequately screened and shielded from outside viewing;

 

          (h)  The preparation room shall be strictly private and locked at all times.  A “private” sign shall be posted on the door(s) entering the preparation room. No one shall be allowed in the preparation room while the body is being embalmed except the licensed embalmers, licensed funeral directors or apprentices;

 

          (i)  The embalming table shall have a top composed of stainless steel, porcelain or other rustproof material, and the edges shall be raised at least 3/4 inch around the entire table. The embalming table shall be free of cracks or chips making proper cleaning impossible.  There shall be a drain opening in the table;

 

          (j)  A hydro-aspirator or electric aspirator equipped with at least one air breaker shall be present.  A drainage tube shall be connected to the aspirator and shall be long enough to extend from the aspirator into the drain.  Documentation of annual back flow functional testing or inspection shall be available for review by the inspector;

 

          (k)  An embalming waste sink shall have a minimum depth necessary to eliminate potential back splash and overflow.  A drainage hose shall be attached to all drain openings in the embalming table and be long enough to extend into the embalming waste sink to base of the drain.  If the embalming table cannot accommodate a drainage hose leading to the base of the embalming waste sink or if the embalming waste sink is not deep enough to eliminate potential back splash and overflow, the embalming waste sink shall have a plexiglass cover with a hole to accommodate the drain hose(s) from the embalming table.  An acceptable alternative to an embalming waste sink shall be a direct connection from the embalming table drain openings to the public sewer system or a septic system if a public sewer is not available;

 

          (l)  The building drainage shall be connected to the public sewer or a septic system if a public sewer is not available;

 

          (m)  The preparation room shall have hot and cold running water;

 

          (n)  The preparation room shall have a separate sink, in addition to the embalming waste sink, for personal use with hot and cold running water;

 

          (o)  The preparation room shall have a first aid kit and eyewash station;

 

          (p)  Only equipment and supplies necessary for the preparation or care of dead human bodies for disposal or transportation shall be kept within the room.  Said equipment shall be maintained in a sanitary manner and be safe for use at all times;

 

          (q)  All bodies in the preparation room shall be treated with proper care and dignity and shall be properly covered at all times;

 

          (r)  The preparation room shall contain the necessary equipment and supplies to meet all OSHA requirements; and

 

          (s)  All OSHA material safety data sheets shall be available in a location outside of the preparation room.

 

Source.  #1689, eff 12-22-80; ss by #2344, eff 4-15-83; ss by #2986, eff 3-18-85; ss by #4357, eff 1-20-88, EXPIRED:
1-20-94

 

New.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

    Frl 701.02  Sanitation and Universal Precautions.  Requirements to control the spread of infectious agents within the preparation room and to protect all staff responsible for the handling of deceased human remains shall include the following:

 

          (a)  All persons engaged in the embalming of a dead human being shall take all necessary, universal precautions including, but not be limited to, wearing:

 

(1)  Smock, apron, or gown capable of covering the person from the neck to the knees;

 

(2)  Impervious gloves; and

 

(3)  Appropriate protective eye wear.

 

          (b)  All personnel shall take universal precautions including, but not limited to:

 

(1)  Using gloves and gowns;

 

(2)  Washing hands;

 

(3)  Cleaning surfaces with hot water and soap or suitable detergent; and

 

(4)  Sterilizing instruments.

 

          (c)  Covered receptacles for refuse, trash and soiled linens shall be located in the preparation room.

 

          (d)  A covered receptacle solely for the containment of bio-hazardous materials, and made of material impervious to leakage of said materials, shall be clearly marked “hazardous materials”.  All bio-hazardous materials shall be destroyed in accordance with Env-Hw 100-1100, RSA 147-A and OSHA-Blood Borne Pathogens Standard 29 CFR 1910.1030.

 

          (e)  The preparation room shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. All embalming tables, sinks, receptacles and other appliances used in embalming and temporary holding of dead human bodies shall be thoroughly cleaned with hot water and disinfectant. Suitable equipment and chemical sterilents shall be available to sterilize instruments immediately following their use.

 

          (f)  Universal precautions as described under OSHA regulations shall be maintained in sufficient numbers in all removal vehicles. At a minimum, these shall include coverall suits, shoe coverings, and high fluid-impervious gloves.

 

Source.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18

 

          Frl 701.03  Exception.  A stand-alone chapel of a funeral establishment, with the same ownership, shall be permitted to operate without maintaining a preparation room.

 

Source.  #9716, eff 5-17-10; ss by #12673, eff 11-20-18


CHAPTER Frl 800  CREMATORIES

 

Statutory Authority  RSA 325-A:28

 

REVISION NOTE:

 

            The rules governing crematories, formerly numbered He-P 700 and filed by the Department of Health and Human Services under Document #8480, effective 11-5-05, had expired on 11-5-05.  Prior to the filing of the rules in Document #8480, the rules had been numbered and filed as He-P 600 under Document #4166, effective 11-6-86, and had expired 11-6-92.

 

            The rules in Chapter Frl 800 were adopted and filed in Document #10945, effective 10-9-15, by the State Board of Registration of Funeral Directors and Embalmers.  The rules in Document #10945 replace all prior filings on crematories.

 

PART Frl 801  CREMATORY REGULATIONS

 

          Frl 801.01  Purpose.  The purpose of this part is to set forth the requirements for all crematories pursuant to RSA 325-A.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.02  Definitions.

 

          (a)  “Authorizing agent” means “authorizing agent” as defined in RSA 325-A:1, II.

 

       (b)  “Board” means “board” as defined in RSA 325-A:1, III.

 

       (c)  “Change of ownership” means the change in the controlling interest of an established crematory.

 

       (d)  “Communicable disease” means “communicable disease” as defined in RSA 141-C:2, VI.

 

       (e)  “Cremated remains” means “cremated remains” as defined in RSA 325-A:1, V.

 

       (f)  “Cremation” means the technical process that uses heat and evaporation to reduce human remains to bone fragments, and which involves the processing of such remains by pulverization, leaving only bone fragments reduced to unidentifiable dimensions, and the unrecoverable residue of any foreign matter, such as eyeglasses, bridgework, or other similar material, that was cremated with the human remains.

 

       (g)  “Cremation chamber” means the enclosed space within which a cremation takes place.

 

       (h)  “Crematory” means a building or portion of a building which contains a cremation chamber and holding facility.

 

       (i)  “Crematory operator” means “crematory operator” as defined in RSA 325-A:1, XI.

 

       (j)  “Designated agent” means the individual authorized to have custody and control of the human remains pursuant to RSA 290:17.

 

       (k)  “Funeral director” means “funeral director” as defined in RSA 325:1, VIII.

 

       (l)  “Holding facility” means the area of a crematory designated for the retention of human remains prior to cremation and includes a refrigerated facility.

 

       (m)  “Human remains” means the body of a deceased person, or human body part, in any stage of decomposition and includes limbs or other portions of the anatomy that are removed from a person or human remains for medical purposes during treatment, surgery, biopsy, autopsy, or medical research.

 

       (n)  “Leak proof pouch” means a plastic, vinyl, or similar material bag that is made specifically for the containment of human remains.

 

       (o)  “Next-of-kin” means “next-of-kin” as defined in RSA 290:16, IV.

 

       (p)  “Owner” means the individual, partnership or corporation with a controlling interest in the crematory.

 

       (q)  “Suitable solid container” means a rigid container, that is designed for the encasement and disposition of human remains before cremation.

 

       (r)  “Urn” means a decorative container used for placement of cremated remains that varies in size, styling, and composition.

 

       (s)  “Violations against a decedent” means actions that desecrate or tamper with the human remains or personal effects, lead to the misidentification of a decedent, or allow the commingling of cremated remains of more than one decedent.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

         Frl 801.03  License to Operate a Crematory.

 

         (a)  Prior to performing cremations in a new facility, a person desiring to operate a crematory shall comply with RSA 325-A:2 and apply to the board for a license.

 

         (b)  Each applicant shall submit a completed application form entitled “Application for License to Operate a Crematory” revised 7/2015, including the following:

 

(1)  The name of the applicant;

 

(2)  The mailing address of the applicant;

 

(3)  The applicant’s telephone number;

 

(4)  The applicant’s email address;

 

(5)  The name of the crematory;

 

(6)  The location of the crematory, including the street number and name, town or city, state, zip code, county, and the name of cemetery or funeral home if applicable;

 

(7)  The name and address of each crematory owner, and indicate ownership type individual, association, partnership, corporation or other, if other explain;

 

(8)  The name of the certified crematory operator(s) pursuant to RSA 325-A:4; and

 

(9)  The signature of:

 

a.  The owner, if a private crematory;

 

b.  Two officers, if a corporation; or

 

c.  At least one authorized individual, if any other entity; and

 

(10)  A fee of $100 for licensure.

 

         (c)  The crematory authority shall submit an unexpired certified crematory operator certificate for each operator.  A certificate shall be considered expired if:

 

(1)  It is past its expiration date listed on the certificate; or

 

(2)  It is over 5 years from the date of its issue.

 

         (d)  Every applicant and crematory operator shall submit to the board a notarized criminal history record release form and the associated fee, as provided by the New Hampshire division of state police, which authorizes the release of his or her criminal history record, if any, to the board.

 

         (e)  The applicant shall mail or hand-deliver the documents to:

 

Board of Registration of Funeral Directors and Embalmers

Office of Professional Licensure and Certification

7 Eagle Square

Concord, NH 03301

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15; ss by #13252, eff 8-13-21

 

          Frl 801.04  Approval or Denial to Operate a Crematory.

 

          (a)  The board shall process the “Application for License to Operate a Crematory” in accordance with RSA 541-A:29.

 

          (b)  Once a completed application is received, the board shall schedule an inspection of the crematory pursuant to Frl 801.05.

 

          (c)  The board shall grant a license to operate a newly constructed crematory following a successful inspection as described in Frl 801.05, (f).

 

          (d)  If a license is granted, the board shall:

 

(1)  Notify the applicant in writing of approval to perform cremations for 90 days; and

 

(2)  Schedule an inspection of the crematory as described in to Frl 801.05 (a) (2).

 

          (e)  If a license is denied, the board shall notify the applicant in writing of:

 

(1)  The reason for the denial; and

 

(2)  Any deficiencies listed in the inspection report described in Frl 801.05 (g).

 

          (f)  The application fee described in Frl 801.03 (b) (10), shall be returned unless an inspection was performed prior to denial of licensure.

 

          (g)  If an inspection was performed the board shall retain an administrative fee of $25 for denied applications.

 

          (h)  The board shall notify the applicant in writing of approval to operate a crematory following a successful inspection as described in Frl 801.05 (f).

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

         Frl 801.05  Inspections.

 

         (a)  A board member or its authorized designee shall conduct an inspection of the crematory premises to ensure compliance with RSA 325-A and Frl 800 at the following times:

 

(1)  After the completion of construction, but prior to the performance of cremations;

 

(2)  Within 90 days of granting approval to operate;

 

(3)  At any time after receiving approval to operate in order to determine continued compliance;

 

(4) Upon notification of ownership change; and

 

(5)  Once every 3 years.

 

         (b) A crematory owner who changes the location of his or her crematory, or who adds a crematory away from the owner’s main or primary facility, or both, or who purchases a crematory, shall request an inspection within 10 days of the close of the transaction or relocation and shall submit a notification to the board which contains:

 

(1) The name and address of the crematory;

 

(2) The telephone number; and

 

(3) The name of the crematory owner(s), manager(s), and the names of all certified crematory operators employed by the crematory, and the date their certification expires.

 

         (c)  Upon notification from the applicant that the crematory for which the applicant has requested a license is ready for inspection, the board shall conduct an inspection pursuant to Frl 801.05.

 

         (d)  Once every 3 years, the board shall request a crematory authority’s consent to a routine inspection and if such consent is given the board shall conduct an inspection.

 

         (e)  If a request pursuant to (d) above is denied, or if the board determines it is necessary to conduct a surprise inspection, the board shall obtain an administrative warrant pursuant to RSA 595-B and shall then conduct the inspection.

 

         (f)  The crematory inspection report shall contain the following:

 

(1)  The name of crematory, physical address, mailing address, telephone number, fax number, crematory e-mail, and web site address, if any;

 

(2)  The crematory license number and date and time of inspection;

 

(3)  Whether the inspection is for a new license, a renewal license, a change of ownership, or a re-inspection;

 

(4)  The name of the inspector;

 

(5)  The name of crematory owner and manager;

 

(6)  The make, model, and number of cremation retorts;

 

(7)  The name of any certified crematory operator(s) and the date their certification expires;

 

(8)  Whether the crematory has established written policies and procedures in accordance with Frl 801.11 (b);

 

(9)  Whether the crematory conform to the requirements of New Hampshire department of environmental services, Env-A 100 through Env-A 4805, governing the control of air pollution pursuant to Frl 801.11 (c);

 

(10)  Whether the crematory has complied with the requirements of New Hampshire department of environmental services, Env-Sw 904 for the management of infectious waste pursuant to Frl 801.11 (d);

 

(11)  Whether the crematory maintains a holding facility in accordance with Frl 801.11 (e);

 

(12)  Whether the crematory maintains a refrigerated holding facility in accordance with Frl 801.11 (j);

 

(13)  Whether the public access is separated from the holding or refrigerated area pursuant to Frl 801.11 (k);

 

(14) Whether the cremation chambers and retorts are maintained according to the manufacturers’ specification pursuant to Frl 801.11 (f);

 

(15)  Whether the cremation chambers and retorts are operational pursuant to Frl 801.11 (g);

 

(16)  Whether the crematory maintains a maintenance service log for each retort;

 

(17)  Whether the crematory floors are constructed of concrete and not covered with flammable material pursuant to Frl 801.11 (h) (1);

 

(18)  Whether the crematory walls and ceilings are constructed of fireproof or fire retardant materials pursuant to Frl 801.11 (h) (2);

 

(19)  Whether the crematory maintains a book of records in accordance with Frl 801.12 (f);

 

(20)  Whether the crematory maintains copies of the medical examiner’s certificate of cremation and copies of the burial transit permit for each cremation of human remains pursuant to Frl 801.12 (g);

 

(21)  Whether the crematory provides a receipt for the delivery of human remains in accordance with Frl 801.13 (d) and (e);

 

(22)  Whether the crematory maintains a record of written consent to cremate in accordance with RSA 325-A:22;

 

(23)  The date of inspection and signature of inspector; and

 

(24)  The date and signature of the crematory representative, which shall represent the crematory representative’s acknowledgement that he or she was present during the inspection.

 

         (g)  If a crematory meets the requirements as set forth in RSA 325-A and Frl 800, the board shall notify the crematory of the successful inspection in writing.

 

         (h)  Upon failure of the crematory to meet all the requirements as set forth in RSA 325-A and Frl 800, the board shall issue the crematory a written report of the deficiencies.

 

         (i)  The board shall reinspect a crematory that failed a previous inspection at the written request of the crematory owner.

 

         (j)  If an inspection, as described in (a) (2)-(3) above, finds violations of RSA 325-A or Frl 800, the owner shall submit a corrective action plan in accordance with Frl 801.09 (b).

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15; ss by #13252, eff 8-13-21

 

         Frl 801.06  License Renewal.

 

         (a)  The crematory authority shall file a written application to renew a license under this chapter every 5 years, as set forth in RSA 325-A:5.

 

         (b)  The crematory authority shall submit a completed application form entitled “Application for Renewal of Crematory License” revised 7/2021, including the following:

 

(1)  The name of the applicant;

 

(2)  The mailing address of the applicant;

 

(3)  The applicant’s telephone number;

 

(4)  Social security number pursuant to RSA 161-B:11, VI-a;

 

(5)  The applicant’s email address;

 

(6)  The name of the crematory;

 

(7)  The location of the crematory, including street number and name, town or city, state, zip code, county, and the name of cemetery or funeral home, if applicable;

 

(8)  The name and address of each crematory owner;

 

(9)  An indication of whether the crematory is owned by an individual, association, partnership, or other ownership type, and, if other, an explanation of the type of ownership;

 

(10)  The name of each certified crematory operator(s) pursuant to RSA 325-A:4; and

 

(11)  The signature of:

 

a.  The owner, if a private crematory;

 

b.  Two officers, if a corporation; or

 

c.  At least one authorized individual, if any other entity; and

 

(12)  The applicant(s) shall submit a fee of $500 with each application.

 

         (c)  The crematory authority shall submit an unexpired certified crematory operator certificate for each operator and a certificate shall be considered expired if:

 

(1)  It is past its expiration date listed on the certificate; or

 

(2)  It is over 5 years from the date of its issue.

 

         (d)  Every applicant and crematory operator shall submit to the board a notarized criminal history record release form and the associated fee, as provided by the New Hampshire division of state police, which authorizes the release of his or her criminal history record, if any, to the board.

 

         (e)  The applicant shall mail or hand-deliver the documents to:

 

Board of Registration of Funeral Directors and Embalmers

Office of Professional Licensure and Certification

7 Eagle Square

Concord, NH 03301

 

         (f)  Reinstatement and relicensure shall be in accordance with RSA 325-A:14.

 

         (g)  Prior to reinstatement of a lapsed license, the crematory authority shall pay the renewal fee and an additional $100 per month from the date the license lapsed.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15; ss by #13252, eff 8-13-21

 

          Frl 801.07  Fees.

 

          (a)  The fee for a duplicate crematory authority license shall be $25.

 

          (b)  The fee for verification of a crematory authority license shall be $50.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.08  Complaints and Investigations.

 

          (a)  Complaints alleging misconduct by licensees in violation of RSA 325-A or Frl 800 shall be in writing and filed at the board’s offices in Concord, New Hampshire.

 

          (b)  A complaint shall contain the following information:

 

(1)  The name, address, home and work telephone number of the complainant;

 

(2)  The name and business address of the crematory against whom the complaint is directed;

 

(3)  A description of the specific facts and circumstances which are believed to constitute professional misconduct; and

 

(4)  The signature and date required by Frl 205.02 (a).

 

          (c)  The board shall dismiss a complaint if:

 

(1)  Taking the facts stated in the complaint are true, the complaint does not state a violation of RSA 325-A or Frl 800;

 

(2)  The complaint fails to state sufficient information such that the board can identify the crematory against which the complaint is filed; or

 

(3)  After investigation, the board determines that the complaint is unfounded.

 

          (d)  If the investigation finds violations of RSA 325-A or Frl 800, the owner shall be required to submit a corrective action plan in accordance with Frl 801.09 (b).

 

          (e)  If the investigation finds violations of RSA 325-A or Frl 800, the crematory owner shall be subject to the relevant administrative fines, as listed in Frl 801.09 (d) (2).

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.09  Administrative Remedies. 

 

          (a)  The board shall impose administrative remedies upon an owner for violations of RSA 325-A or Frl 800 as set forth in this section.

 

          (b)  A corrective action plan developed and enforced in the following manner:

 

(1)  The board shall provide the owner with a written notice that identifies each violation;

 

(2)  Upon receipt of a notice the owner shall submit a written corrective action plan, specifying:

 

a.  How the owner intends to correct each violation;

 

b.  What measures will be put in place, or what system changes will be made to ensure that the violation does not recur; and

 

c.  The date by which each violation shall be corrected;

 

(3)  The owner shall submit a written corrective action plan to the board within 21 days of the date on the letter that transmitted the written notice;

 

(4)  The board shall review each corrective action plan and reject any plan that fails to:

 

a.  Achieve compliance with RSA 325-A and Frl 800;

 

b.  Address all violations as cited in the inspection report;

 

c.  Prevent a new violation of RSA 325-A and Frl 800 as a result of this implementation; or

 

d.  Specify the date upon which the deficiencies will be corrected;

 

(5)  If the corrective action plan complies with (4) above, the board shall notify the owner in writing to implement the plan;

 

(6)  If the corrective action plan does not comply with (4) above:

 

a.  The board shall notify the owner in writing of the reason(s) for rejecting the corrective action plan; and

 

b.  The owner shall be subject to a directed corrective action plan in accordance with Frl 801.09 (c) and a fine in accordance with Frl 801.09 (d) (2);

 

(7)  The board shall verify the implementation of any accepted corrective action plan by:

 

a.  Reviewing the corrective action plan submitted by the owner; and

 

b.  Conducting a follow-up inspection; and

 

(8)  The verification of implementation as described in (7) above shall only occur after the date of completion specified by the owner’s plan;

 

          (c)  A directed corrective action plan imposed and administered in the following manner:

 

(1)  The board shall develop a written plan that specifies the necessary actions the owner shall take to correct identified violations;

 

(2)  The board shall notify the owner in writing to implement the plan; and

 

(3) The board shall verify the implementation of the directed corrective action plan by conducting a follow-up inspection; and

 

          (d)  A fine imposed and administered in the following manner:

 

(1)  The board shall provide the owner with a written notice which:

 

a.  Identifies each violation;

 

b.  Specifies the amount of the proposed fine;

 

c.  Informs the owner of the right to a hearing in accordance with RSA 541-A and Frl 200 prior to imposition of the fine; and

 

d.  Explains the automatic reduction of a fine by 50% if the fine is paid within 10 days of the date on the written notice from the board, the owner corrects the violations, and waives the right to a hearing;

 

(2)  The board shall impose fines in the specified amounts for the following deficiencies:

 

a.  For failure to allow access to the crematory premises or to records maintained by the crematory after the board has obtained an administrative warrant, in violation of Frl 801.05 (d) and Frl 801.12 (h) respectively, the fine shall be $1000;

 

b.  For falsification of information contained on the application, in violation of Frl 801.11 (a), the fine shall be $1000;

 

c.  For falsification of any required documents, in violation of Frl 801.11 (a), the fine shall be $2000;

 

d.  For advertising services or otherwise representing that services are provided when they are not, in violation of Frl 801.12 (i), the fine shall be $500;

 

e.  For failure to submit a corrective action plan within 21 days of the date on the letter that transmits the inspection report, in violation of Frl 801.09 (b) (3), the fine shall be $100; 

 

f.  Until an owner provides documentary evidence of compliance, each day beyond 21 days that an owner fails to submit a corrective action plan, as specified in Frl 801.09 (d) (2) e., shall be considered a separate deficiency subject to an additional $100 fine to a maximum fine of $ 2000;

 

g.  For failure to implement any corrective action plan that has been accepted or issued by the board, in violation of Frl 801.09 (b) (5) and Frl 801.09 (c) (2) respectively, the fine shall be $100.

 

h.  For using the cremation chamber and retort for any purpose other than the cremation of human remains, human pathological waste or human anatomical waste, in violation of Frl 801.12 (c), the fine shall be $1000;

 

i.  For cremating more than one human remains, at one time in violation of Frl 801.12 (d), the fine shall be $20,000;

 

j.  For cremating or causing the cremation of human remains without obtaining a burial permit or medical examiner certificate, in violation of RSA 325-A:18 and Frl 801.14 (a), the fine shall be $2000.

 

k.  For cremating human remains within 48 hours of death, in violation of RSA 325-A:18 and Frl 801.12 (e), the fine shall be $2000;

 

l.  For removing personal effects from human remains without the express written consent of the authorizing agent, in violation of Frl 801.14 (d), the fine shall be $1000;

 

m.  For failing to cease operation after receiving an order from the board, in violation of 801.10 (c), the fine shall be $200, and each additional day that an owner fails to cease operation shall be considered a separate deficiency subject to an additional $200 fine to a maximum fine of $20,000;

 

n.  When an inspection or investigation determines that a repeat violation of RSA 325-A or Frl 800 has occurred within 2 years of the date of the original violation, the fine shall be $2000;

 

o. For failure to establish, implement or comply with the crematory policies and procedures, in violation of Frl 801.11 (b), the fine shall be $2000; and

 

p.  If a crematory authority seeks to reinstate a suspended license but does not file a written request with 10 days, the fine shall be $100.

 

(3)  Payment of any imposed fine to the board shall meet the following requirements:

 

a.  Payment shall be made within 30 days of receipt of notice;

 

b.  Payment shall be made in the form of check or money order for the exact amount due; and

 

c.  Payment in a form other than cash shall be made payable to the “Treasurer - State of New Hampshire”.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.10  Enforcement Action.

 

          (a)  The board shall order a crematory to suspend operation when an inspection or investigation has found that:

 

(1)  The crematory failed to correct violations as required by an approved corrective action plan or directed corrective action plan;

 

(2)  The crematory is cited for a violation against a decedent; or

 

(3)  The crematory is cited for a repeat violation of RSA 325-A or Frl 800 within 2 years of the original violation.

 

          (b)  If a crematory is ordered to suspend operation, the crematory may continue operating until an administrative hearing is held and a final decision has been issued.

 

          (c)  The board shall order the temporary closure, temporary suspension or temporary limitation of a crematory when:

 

(1)  Continued operation of the crematory poses a threat to public health; or

 

(2)  The crematory is cited for repeated violations against decedents within 1 year.

 

          (d)  If a crematory is ordered to immediately cease operation and close, the board shall hold an administrative hearing within 10 working days of the date the order was issued.

 

          (e)  Other than immediate license suspensions authorized by RSA 541-A:30, III the board shall impose disciplinary sanctions only:

 

(1)  After prior notice and an opportunity to be heard; or

 

(2)  Pursuant to a mutually agreed upon settlement or consent decree.

 

          (f)  When the board receives notice that a licensee has been subjected to disciplinary action related to professional conduct by the licensing authority of another jurisdiction, the board shall issue an order providing the opportunity for a hearing and directing the licensee to demonstrate why reciprocal discipline should not be imposed in New Hampshire.

 

          (g)  After finding that misconduct has occurred, the board shall impose any disciplinary sanction authorized by RSA 325-A:12, after considering the factors:

 

(1)  The seriousness of the offense;

 

(2)  The licensee's prior disciplinary record;

 

(3)  The licensee's state of mind at the time of the offense;

 

(4)  The licensee's acknowledgment of his or her wrongdoing;

 

(5)  The licensee's willingness to cooperate with the board's investigation;

 

(6)  The purpose of the rule or statute violated;

 

(7)  The potential harm to public health and safety;

 

(8)  The deterrent effect upon other practitioners; and

 

(9)  The nature and extent of the enforcement activities required of the board as a result of the offense.

 

          (h)  Copies of board orders imposing disciplinary sanctions, including all settlement agreements or consent decrees, shall be sent to the licensing body of each state in which the licensee is licensed and to such other entities, organizations, associations, or boards as are required to be notified under applicable state or federal law.  The board administrator shall also issue a press release to news organizations providing a summary of any and all disciplinary actions taken.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.11  Requirements of Crematories.

 

          (a)  Crematories shall not provide false statements or falsify any documentation required by RSA 325-A and Frl 800.

 

          (b)  Crematories shall establish written policies and procedures for:

 

(1)  The cremation of anatomical and pathological medical waste;

 

(2)  The methods employed to track the chain of custody of the human remains;

 

(3)  The methods employed to insure the integrity and identity of individual cremated remains; and

 

(4)  The use of universal precautions in handling remains and pre-crematory waste.

 

          (c)  Crematories shall conform to New Hampshire department of environmental services, Env-A 100 through Env-A 4805, governing the control of air pollution.

 

          (d)  Crematories shall comply with New Hampshire department of environmental services, Env-Sw 904 for the management of infectious waste.

 

          (e)  Crematories approved prior to November 5, 2005, shall have a holding facility large enough to accommodate the human remains awaiting cremation on the premises.

 

          (f)  Cremation chambers and retorts shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturers’ specifications, which shall be kept at the crematory and available for review during inspections.

 

          (g)  Cremation chambers and retorts shall be capable of reducing human remains to ashes.

 

          (h)  Crematories approved after November 5, 2005, shall have:

 

(1)  Floors constructed of concrete and free of flammable material; and

 

(2)  Walls and ceilings constructed of fireproof or fire retardant materials.

 

          (i)  Crematories approved after November 5, 2005, shall have a holding facility that shall be:

 

(1)  Marked “Private” or “Authorized Entry Only”;

 

(2)  Locked when not actively attended by the authorized crematory operator; and

 

(3)  Capable of holding 6 human remains.

 

          (j)  Crematories approved after November 5, 2005, shall have a refrigerated holding facility that shall be:

 

(1)  Marked “Private” or “Authorized Entry Only”;

 

(2)  Locked when not actively attended by the authorized crematory operator;

 

(3)  Maintained at a temperature between 35 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit; and

 

(4)  Capable of holding 2 human remains.

 

          (k)  Any area accessible to the public shall be separated from the holding/refrigerated area.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.12  Duties of Crematories.

 

          (a)  Crematories shall conform to the requirements set forth in Frl 800.

 

          (b)  Crematories shall comply with the policies and procedures described in Frl 801.11 (b).

 

          (c)  Cremation chambers and retorts shall only be used for the cremation of:

 

(1)  Human remains;

 

(2)  Human anatomical waste; or

 

(3)  Human pathological waste.

 

          (d)  Unless a request is made by an authorized individual to cremate more than one human remains at a time, such as that of a mother and child together, the crematory shall not cremate more than one human remains per cremation chamber at a time.

 

          (e)  Crematories shall not cremate human remains within 48 hours of death, pursuant to RSA 325-A:18,  unless a contagious or infectious disease caused death.

 

          (f)  Crematories shall maintain an accurate crematory book of records, pursuant to RSA 325-A:22, containing the following:

 

(1)  The name, age and gender of the decedent;

 

(2)  The last residential address of the decedent;

 

(3)  The date and place of death of the decedent;

 

(4)  The date human remains were received at the crematory;

 

(5)  The authorizing agent(s) name(s) and relationship(s) to the decedent;

 

(6)  The name of the medical examiner or deputy medical examiner issuing the certificate required for cremation in accordance with RSA 325-A:18;

 

(7)  The signatures of the licensed funeral director, next-of-kin, or designated agent;

 

(8)  The signature of the person supervising the cremation;

 

(9)  The disposition of the cremated remains; and

 

(10)  The written consent to cremate in accordance with RSA 325-A:22.

 

          (g)  For each cremation of human remains, crematories shall keep:

 

(1)  A copy of the medical examiner’s certificate of cremation; and

 

(2)  A copy of the burial transit permit, annotated with the date it was filed with the town.

 

          (h)  Crematories shall provide board members or its authorized designee access to records in (f) and (g) above upon request.

 

          (i)  Crematories shall not advertise or otherwise represent themselves as performing services that they do not provide.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.13  Reception of the Human Remains.  Reception of the human remains by a crematory for incineration or cremation shall be subject to the following:

 

          (a)  A crematory shall not accept a body for cremation unless it is delivered by:

 

(1)  A funeral director;

 

(2)  The next-of-kin; or

 

(3)  A designated agent;

 

          (b)  A crematory shall not receive a body if the crematory knows that the person died from a communicable disease unless:

 

(1)  The human remains are embalmed or received in 2 leak proof pouches; and

 

(2)  The cause of death is clearly marked on the outside of the leak proof pouches;

 

          (c)  All unembalmed human remains shall be placed in a single leak proof pouch and treated as necessary to prevent odor and leakage of body fluids, and placed in a suitable solid container;

 

          (d)  A crematory shall deliver a receipt to the funeral director, next-of-kin or designated agent who delivers such human remains to the crematory pursuant to RSA 325-A:19 I;

 

          (e)  The crematory shall keep a copy of the receipt in (d) above, which shall include:

 

(1)  The name of the decedent whose human remains were received;

 

(2)  The date on which the human remains were received;

 

(3)  The place where the human remains were received;

 

(4)  The name and address of the funeral director, next-of-kin, or designated agent from whom the human remains were received;

 

(5)  The name and address of the funeral home, if applicable;

 

(6)  The name of the person in charge of the delivery; and

 

(7)  The type of suitable solid container in which the human remains were received;

 

          (f)  The crematory shall receive the authorizing agent’s written consent, as required by Frl 801.14 (a); and

 

          (g)  If the crematory is unable to cremate human remains, whether it be due to the 48 hour waiting period required by RSA 325-A:18 or for some other reason, the crematory shall:

 

(1)  Immediately place the human remains in the holding facility required by Frl 801.11 (i); or

 

(2)  If the human remains have not been embalmed and it has been 72 hours since death occurred, store the unembalmed remains in the refrigerated holding facility required by Frl 801.11 (j).

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.14  Cremation of Human Remains.

 

          (a)  Crematories shall not cremate human remains without receipt of the following documents pursuant to RSA 325-A:18:

 

(1)  The burial permit; and

 

(2)  The certificate from the medical examiner.

 

          (b)  A crematory authority shall not accept human remains unless those remains are in a suitable solid container.

 

          (c)  Human remains shall be cremated in the suitable solid container in which received.

 

          (d)  Personal effects shall not be removed from the deceased without express consent from the authorizing agent(s), which shall be documented by the crematory.

 

          (e)  A crematory shall not place any additional material in a casket or suitable solid container prior to cremation unless authorized by the authorizing agent(s).

 

          (f)  A crematory shall not place medical waste, including, but not limited to, items such as hypodermic needles, syringes, scalpel blades, soiled dressings, sponges, drainage sets, underpads or surgical gloves in the casket or suitable solid container prior to cremation.

 

          (g)  Cremated remains from each cremation shall be removed from each chamber before any subsequent cremation is begun.

 

          (h)  The authorizing agent(s) or his or her designee may be present at any stage of the cremation of such human remains.

 

          (i)  In so far as practicable, all residual of the cremation process shall be removed from the cremation retort and shall not be commingled with any other cremated remains unless consent has been given by the authorizing agent(s).

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 

          Frl 801.15  Disposition of Cremated Remains.

 

          (a)  Cremated remains shall be placed in a cremation container or urn, as defined in RSA 325-A:1, XVII and Frl 801.02, (r).

 

          (b)  Identification of cremated remains shall be noted on the container or urn with a label.

 

          (c)  The crematory shall:

 

(1)  Give the cremated remains, in a cremated remains container or urn, to the funeral director, next-of-kin, designated agent, or to the authorizing agent in charge of final disposition; or

 

(2)  Otherwise dispose of the cremated remains as authorized by the funeral director, next-of-kin, designated agent, or the authorizing agent.

 

          (d)  In the event the capacity of the urn or other cremated remains container is insufficient to accommodate all of the cremated remains, the crematory shall place the excess cremated remains in another cremated remains container and give both containers to the funeral director, next-of-kin, designated agent, or to the authorizing agent in charge of final disposition.

 

          (e)  Crematories shall dispose of all body prosthesis or similar items, such as bridgework, not consumed by cremation.

 

Source.  (See Revision Note at chapter heading for Frl 800) #10945, eff 10-9-15

 


 

CHAPTER Frl 900  RESOMATION FACILITY REGULATIONS

 

PART Frl 901  RESOMATION FACILITY REGULATIONS

 

          Frl 901.01 - 901.28

 

Source.  #9025, EMERGENCY RULE, eff 11-9-07, EXPIRED: 5-7-08

 


 

APPENDIX I

 

Rule

Specific State Statute the Rule Implements

Frl 101

RSA 325:9, VII

Frl 102

RSA 541-A:16, I(a)

Frl 103.01 (a),(b)

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 103.01(c)

RSA 325:16, RSA 325:17

Frl 103.01(d),(e)

RSA 325:9, II, IV; RSA 325:8-a

Frl 103.02

RSA 325:2, II

Frl 103.03

RSA 310:4, II(e)

Frl 103.04

RSA 541-A:16, I(a)

Frl 104

RSA 310:4, II(a), (e)

Frl 104.01

RSA 91-A:3, III; RSA 91-A:4; RSA 325:9, VII; RSA 541-A:7

 

 

Frl 201.01

RSA 541-A:16, I (b) intro.

Frl 201.02

RSA 541-A:16, I (b)-(d)

 

 

Frl 301.01 - 301.07

RSA 325:29, RSA 325:31, RSA 325:9, II(b)

Frl 301.05

RSA 310:8, II

Frl 301.09

RSA 325:29

Frl 302.01

RSA 325:9. IV; RSA 310:4, II(c)

Frl 302.02

RSA 325:13

Frl 302.03

RSA 325:13, VI

Frl 302.04

RSA 325:18; RSA 325:13, VI; RSA 310:5, I

Frl 303.01 - 303.02

RSA 325:14, RSA 325:18

Frl 303.03

RSA 325:14, RSA 325:18,  RSA 310:5, I

Frl 304

RSA 325:9, IX-a

Frl 307.01

RSA 310:5; RSA 310:6, I

Frl 308

RSA 325:9, VII; RSA 325:31-a

 

 

Frl 403.01

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.02

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.03

RSA 325:9, IV, RSA 325:23, RSA 325:28-a

Frl 403.04

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.05

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.06

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.07

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.08

RSA 325:32, II

Frl 403.09

RSA 325:9, IV

Frl 403.10

RSA 325:9, IV

 

 

Frl 404.01

RSA 325:9

Frl 404.02

RSA 325:9

Frl 404.03

RSA 325:9

 

 

Frl 500

RSA 325:9, VI

 

 

Frl 601.01

RSA 325:16

Frl 602.01

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.02

RSA 325:21

Frl 602.03

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.04

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.05

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.06

28 CFR Part 35

Frl 602.07

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.08

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.09

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.10

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.11

16 CFR Part 453

Frl 602.12

RSA 325:17

Frl 602.13

RSA 325:17

Frl 603.01

 RSA 325:17

Frl 603.02

RSA 325:17

Frl 603.03

RSA 325:17

Frl 603.04

RSA 325:17

 

 

Frl 701

RSA 325:1, VII (c); RSA 325:9, VII; RSA 325:16;
RSA 325:17

Frl 701.02 – Frl 701.03

RSA 325:16, RSA 325:17

 

 

Frl 801.01

RSA 325-A:28

Frl 801.02

RSA 325-A:1

Frl 801.03

RSA 325-A:4, RSA 325-A:28, I

Frl 801.04

RSA 325-A:4, RSA 325-A:28 I

Frl 801.05

RSA 325-A:8, RSA 325-A:28, VI

Frl 801.06

RSA 325-A:4, RSA 325-A:28, I

Frl 801.07

RSA 325-A:7, RSA 325-A:28 II

Frl 801.08

RSA 325-A:9

Frl 801.09

RSA 325-A:12, RSA 325-A:28

Frl 801.10

RSA 325-A:10

Frl 801.11

RSA 325-A:21

Frl 801.12

RSA 325-A:8, RSA 325-A:22

Frl 801.13

RSA 325-A:19, RSA 325-A:20

Frl 801.14

RSA 325-A:18, RSA 325-A:21

Frl 801.15

RSA 325-A:26

 

 

 

APPENDIX

 

Rule

Title

Obtain at

Frl 501.01

“Code of Professional Conduct”, as amended
March 10, 2008

National Funeral Directors Association

Free online at: http://www.nfda.org/Portals/0/NFDAORG/About/codeconduct_2012.pdf