Working with the dead. Well, why not?
Indispensable and timeless, the funeral professions are remarkable in terms of job security. However, they require specific technical skills and personal qualities. In addition, these activities are subject to strict rules to ensure respect for the deceased and comfort for the families. Training is therefore crucial to becoming an embalmer and making a career in the field.
The profession of embalmer: an essential role
The term thanatopraxia comes from the Greek “thanatos” (death) and “praxis” (action or practice). It thus designates an activity relating to death. Historically, the practice is also called conservation care or embalming. The profession is, however, regulated due to its sensitive nature. Therefore, the status of thanatopractor now requires training and certification from the Department of Health.
What is an embalmer and what are his main missions?
The embalmer is a professional authorized to practice the hygiene and preservation care necessary for deceased people. These acts are defined in particular by Article L2223-19-1 of the General Code of Local Authorities. In principle, they are not really obligatory. This care is nevertheless recommended to put the body of the deceased in better conditions and lessen the shock for the family. To do this, the technician takes care of, among other things:
● Cleaning and disinfection of the body;
● The injection of a formalin product to slow down decomposition;
● Extraction of gases and fluids from the putrefaction process;
● The incineration of physiological fluids;
● Dressing, makeup and hairstyle of the deceased;
● Body contouring, if necessary, with cotton, wax or even plastic.
In short, the professional strives to make the deceased person physically more presentable while waiting for the funeral.
The importance of the embalmer in the grieving process
The embalmer plays a decisive role in the grieving process. Indeed, it makes it possible to improve the presentation of the deceased before the final separation from their loved ones. The bereaved will then be able to find comfort in remembering the serenity of their loved one. In addition, the professional supports, listens and advises the families of the missing during these difficult times.
Educational guidance and training to become an embalmer
To become an embalmer, it is imperative to pass the national exam organized by the Ministry of Health each year. This test is essential to obtain the official embalming diploma. Conversely, the course is less restrictive. All you need to do is follow training dedicated to funeral professions.
Necessary academic prerequisites and personal qualities
Personal qualities are crucial for working in the funeral sector. They make it possible to be effective in caring for the deceased and supporting families. In detail, the embalmer is supposed to have certain values and qualities such as:
● Self-control and emotional stability;
● The ability to work alone;
● Empathy and tact;
● Patience and discretion;
● Humility and respect for others;
● Rigor and meticulousness.
This last point is decisive on a technical level in order to ensure impeccable quality care for each missing person. Academically, the baccalaureate level is the only prerequisite for training in embalming.
The training course: stages, duration and costs
The future embalmer must above all be of legal age and hold a baccalaureate or equivalent. Indeed, it is better to have a bachelor’s degree to follow the scientific bases of embalming, medico-legal techniques, conservation and restoration of bodies… In terms of establishment, training is provided in particular by:
● Accent-training;
● Nova Training Agency;
● The French School of Mortuary Care and Sciences (EFSSM);
● Les Alyscamps Funeral Training School (EFFA);
● The French Institute of Thanatopraxie;
● The University of Angers;
● Claude Bernard Lyon University – Institute of Forensic Medicine;
● The JM Embalmer Training Center…
In general, the training lasts at least 190 hours, or two semesters or one year, to prepare for the national embalming exam. The cost will, however, depend on the establishment in question.
The challenges and rewards of the profession of embalmer
Regular confrontation with mortality is one of the main challenges in the embalming profession. Over time, the experience may become too stressful for the professional. The latter will then be exposed to demotivation or even depression.
Prejudices, emotional and physical challenges
On a daily basis, the embalmer must overcome various challenges such as prejudices. This profession is also associated with a fairly negative image in the collective imagination. As a result, beginners may have difficulty coping with this situation in addition to the emotional and physical challenges. It will indeed be necessary to work with inanimate patients and bereaved families.
The rewarding moments and satisfaction of the societal role played
Despite its physically and emotionally demanding side, embalming is particularly rewarding when seeing the scope of its activity. The bodies are, on the one hand, in a state evoking serenity. On the other hand, this person resting in peace generally helps to ease the pain of families. It is also an activity contributing to the proper functioning of society.
