Minnesota State Mortician Practice Exam

Which category of closure is often associated with vaults?

1. Permanent closure

2. Temporary closure

3. Reversible closure

4. Open closure

The correct answer is: Permanent closure

The category of closure often associated with vaults is permanent closure. In the context of burial practices, a vault is designed to provide a protective environment for the casket. Once the vault lid is placed and sealed, it creates a permanent closure that safeguards the remains from the external environment, such as water, soil, and other elements. This permanence ensures the integrity of the burial site, maintaining the dignity and respect for the deceased. Temporary closure, reversible closure, and open closure refer to methods where access to the casket or remains can still be granted after the initial interment. For instance, a temporary closure might allow for future visitation, while reversible closure implies that the closure can be undone with relative ease, and open closure indicates that there is no cover or lid, leaving the casket exposed. These types of closures are not typical in the context of vaults, which are specifically designed for permanent interment.