About

Register of Qualified Memorial Fixers (RQMF)

The Register of Qualified Memorial Fixers (RQMF) supports Burial Authorities to verify that those they permit access to work are suitable qualified and insured and their fixing methods comply with BS8415 and the NAMM Code of Working Practice. The RQMF is specifically designed to assist Burial Authorities ensure safe standards of memorial fixing are maintained. Burial authorities are able to receive a login to freely access the RQMF data to check the current statutes of RQMF registered businesses and fixers.

Purpose of the RQMF

To provides assurance that RQMF registered business/ fixers have been independently assessed to nationally approved standards and are suitably qualified. All registered fixers and businesses must:

• Sign a declaration to comply with any disciplinary action resulting from substandard fixing.
• Maintain current and appropriate insurance,

The RQMF is administered by a dedicated RQMF administrator and provides free access to a database for Burial Authorities, offering individual login details upon request.

Role of the RQMF

The RQMF is an independent register specifically designed for memorial masons to help Burial Authorities confirm those they permit access to work are:

• Appropriately qualified
• Insured with up-to-date coverage
• Adhere to current industry standards of memorial fixing
• Abide by disciplinary action administered by the RQMF

Memorial masonry businesses who meet the listing criteria are eligible to be included on the RQMF but each RQMF businesses must have at least one RQMF registered fixer.

(See Memorial Fixer Qualification Requirements)

Registration Criteria for Memorial Fixers

Upon registration, memorial fixers receive a registration card displaying:

• Name and photograph
• Registration number
• Qualifications
• Business name and address

A new card is issued upon payment of the registration fee or if qualifications are updated. Lost or stolen cards can be replaced for a small administration fee.

Both the memorial fixer and the registered business are subject to the RQMF Disciplinary Procedure to uphold fixing standards. The registered business is ultimately responsible for the work completed by its employees and any necessary remedial action. Formal complaints can be made by Burial Authorities or members of the public, with the RQMF administrator overseeing the resolution process.

Responsibilities of the RQMF Administrator

The RQMF Administrator is responsible for:

• Processing applications
• Managing routine correspondence
• Maintaining the RQMF website

The RQMF website provides free access to an up-to-date database of qualified and insured memorial fixers working to BS8415 and the NAMM Code of Working Practice.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

Registered fixers must provide evidence of CPD every two years. Online CPD options are available via the RQMF website, with certificates issued upon successful completion. Other acceptable CPD activities include:

• Attending trade shows
• Completing first aid courses
• Participating in Burial Authority meetings

If fixers fail to provide evidence of CPD, the administrator will contact them directly.

Oversight and Quality Assurance

The RQMF is governed by:

• An Administration Quality Performance Committee comprising experienced personnel
• An Overseeing Body including:
  • One non-NAMM fixer
  • One Burial Authority representative
  • An independent City & Guilds regulator

Burial Authorities can provide confidential feedback through the RQMF website, which contributes to the quality performance review process.

Support and Guidance

The RQMF is supported by the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) and the NAMM Code of Working Practice. It has access to NAMM Technical Committee members and advisers for guidance on technical matters and legislation.

All Burial Authorities with RQMF login details can directly participate in the RQMF Quality Performance Committee and review panel via the feedback form.