How To Become An Embalmer In South Africa

Embalmers are professionals that use chemicals to forestall body decomposition and preserve human remains for long periods of time. 

What is an Average Embalmer Salary?

Not only extremely gratifying and fulfilling, but an embalming career also offers great benefits and financial reward. According to the South Africa of Labor Statistics, the average embalmer salary in the United States is R 665574.02a year.

What Is An Embalmer?

The following job responsibilities are common for individuals in embalmer roles:

Evaluate the needs of deceased individuals by observing dead bodies and collecting information on the funeral plans

Take steps to preserve bodies for viewing services by draining blood and replacing it with embalming fluid and other preservative chemicals

Use detailed reconstructive techniques to present bodies who’ve suffered from devastating injuries without upsetting visitors and family members

Prepare bodies for display by applying clothing and makeup and styling hair to make bodies look natural

Adhere to stringent safety guidelines to prevent the spread of infectious disease, and properly dispose of bodily fluids

Below is How To Become An Embalmer In South Africa

To become an embalmer, you must earn a mortuary science degree from an accredited mortuary science school. Most of these programs result in associate’s degrees, though bachelor’s degree programs may also be available. Typically, an associate’s degree is an acceptable level of education for securing a job as an embalmer.

In college, you’ll learn how to perform all roles related to funeral services, taking courses in embalming, body positioning and restoration, and proper disposal methods.

After graduating from a mortuary science degree program, aspiring embalmers must then enter into an apprenticeship program where they gain practical embalming experience by working under an experienced embalmer.

This apprenticeship program usually lasts between one and three years. Most mortuary science schools will work to help students find apprenticeships after graduation, and students can also seek apprenticeships through a local embalmers association or organization.

All states require embalmers to be licensed in order to work in their field. Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally require completion of an associate’s degree and at least one year of experience as an embalmer’s apprentice.

After becoming licensed, you’ll be able to find work with local funeral homes as an embalmer. To maintain your license throughout your career, continuing education may be required so you can stay up to date on all new techniques used in your field of work.

How long does it take to become an embalmer In South Africa?

Embalmer education typically takes at least two years of full-time study and includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, embalming techniques, restorative arts, ethics, funeral service law, and more.

What qualifications do I need to be an embalmer?

There are no set entry qualifications but GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, maths, chemistry or biology may be helpful. You may have an advantage if you know about different faiths and cultures and the way they deal with death.

Can you become an embalmer without a degree In South Africa ?

To become an embalmer, you must earn a mortuary science degree from an accredited mortuary science school. Licensing requirements vary by state, but generally require completion of an associate’s degree and at least one year of experience as an embalmer’s apprentice.

Is embalming a good career?

Embalming is a noble profession that is essential to the funeral industry. The job of an embalmer is as demanding as it is rewarding. Many people who choose this profession must be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Many embalmers carry a pager and must always be on call.

What hours do embalmers work?

Embalmers often work more than forty hours per week. Their hours may be irregular, because there may be slow periods followed by a series of funerals within a short period. In larger establishments embalmers may work shifts; in smaller ones they may be on call at all times.

Do embalmers work in hospitals?

Typically embalmers are employed by funeral parlors and other funeral service agencies. You will also find employment opportunities for embalmers at hospitals, mortuaries, and universities.

Is embalming gross?

Embalming is gross and unnecessary

The embalming process is so invasive and it is not needed.” Instead, proponents of the natural death movement like Tora Colwill use natural methods, often alongside the family, to prepare the body for an open casket.

Are Embalmers happy?

Embalmers are one of the happiest careers in the South Africa . At Career Explorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, embalmers rate their career happiness 3.9 out of 5 stars which puts them in the top 13% of careers.