What is the protocol for cremating wooden caskets that have varnish coatings in a hot retort?

The protocol for cremating wooden caskets with varnish coatings involves treating them like highly polished caskets primarily because of the materials involved and their potential impact on the cremation process. Varnish is often composed of resins and other chemicals that can produce smoke and emissions during cremation. Therefore, it's essential to handle them properly to ensure that the cremation is conducted efficiently and safely, while also adhering to environmental regulations.

Handling varnished caskets in a manner similar to highly polished caskets acknowledges that these finishes may contribute to combustion properties and alter the way the casket burns. In contrast, other options do not adequately address the specific considerations required for varnished wood. For instance, cremating these caskets last or at a lower temperature may not ensure complete combustion and could result in increased emissions, which could violate environmental standards. Accepting them as regular wood caskets does not account for the additional factors associated with the varnish that could affect the cremation process.

Thus, treating varnished caskets as highly polished ones allows for the implementation of appropriate precautions to manage the cremation effectively while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental guidelines.