Exploring the work and lives of crematorium workers

Abstract

This study seeks to explore the work and lives of crematorium workers. It also attempts to understand how workers respond to work in an atmosphere of insecurity, low pay, precariousness and diminishing avenues of resistance such as the presence of a strong trade union movement. The retreat of the state in an overall culture of privatisation and deregulation leads to deteriorating employment conditions and diminished avenues for formally accessing justice. The workers whom we engaged with, were working in a crematorium, where many services were being contracted out. However in spite of the difficulties, all the crematorium workers yearn to be engaged in service of society and demonstrate tremendous dedication. Inspite of the dominating nature of the managerialist discourse of optimality operating through the instrumentality of individualised psychological contracts, they refuse to surrender the idea of their selves to the diktats of the employer.