The first thing I'm going to recommend for this is specifically worded sigils!

Sigils are easy to make, easy to use, and can be drawn directly on the body to protect you while also being easily hidden (if that's a concern for you).

I use a sigil along the lines of "Only those who wish me no harm may come forward" and it's served me very well in all of my death work. I draw it on either my wrist or torso whenever I go to a cemetery to do any death work, and occasionally burn it in my room to boost the wards I have in place that much more.

Now, the second thing I'll recommend is to make sure your home/room is warded.

If there happens to be a spirit that does follow you despite the sigil, your wards should be able to fend it off and make sure it doesn't do you any harm, or cause any ruckus in your space.

My third recommendation would be to ask your deities, spirit guides/companions, or any other spiritual beings you know/trust to help you out while in the cemetery.

Especially when I was first starting out with "proper" death work, I asked Hades to lend a hand in making sure I was safe every time I went to do death work. I made sure to give him extra offerings both before and after the work, and it made me feel much safer to know He was watching over me.

Finally, trust your gut!

If something feels off or wrong about a spirit you're interacting with, stop the interaction before it gets too far.

If one part of the cemetery feels bad to go into, or you get the impression you aren't welcome there, don't go in! Remember that you are going into the home of these spirits, and not everyone likes guests- some spirits are never going to want to work with you (or anyone else, for that matter) and that's both okay and to be expected.

If you're generally respectful, don't purposefully antagonize any spirits, and keep to the parts of the cemetery that feel welcoming, you shouldn't have any issues!!

-Jae