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Management of cemeteries

Over the last 12 years there have been 20 - 30 serious accidents to members of the public caused by memorials in cemeteries toppling over, often due to poor maintenance and neglect. The duty to ensure cemeteries are safe rests with Burial Authorities (BAs), this can be a local authority, church or a private company. There are over 3,000 in the UK. They have a duty to manage risk in their cemeteries under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

HSE's line on management of cemeteries

For more information on this please see the letters below.