In the UK there are 2 governing bodies that regulate the headstones and memorial sector.
1. National Association of Memorial Masons
2. British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons.
National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM)
Founded in March 2007 The National Association of Memorial Masons aims to protect the interest s of customers using stone masons in the UK. Its objective is to promote good practice throughout the industry with reference to natural stone memorials.
All members of the National Association of Memorial Masons strive to meet a set code of ethics including;
A member shall do all in his power to uphold and maintain the dignity of the Craft.
He shall never attempt to persuade a customer to cancel an order when once placed with a competitor.
British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM)
Set up in 2004 The British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons scheme aims to develop a network of nationally accredited companies across the UK.
Their main objectives are:
To establish a recognised uniform standard of workmanship and company practice throughout the UK.
To ensure all companies, Fixers and Burial Authorities on the BRAMM register follow the current health and safety guidelines to protect both the public and their employees.
To ensure that BRAMM companies give a guarantee of the stability of their memorials and headstones.
To enforce the scheme to ensure it will be effectively policed so that acceptable and consistent standards of instillation are maintained.
To encourage development and training for employees within the memorial masonry industry.
Many customers in the UK who require the services of a stone mason are now actively seeking companies that are members of the National Association of Memorial Masons or the British register of Accredited Masons.