When do I need to hire a Sign Language Interpreter?
Anytime you have someone who is Deaf, Deaf-Blind, or Hard of Hearing.
The Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act of 1990 states that both public and private agencies as well as employers must be accessible to all, regardless of disability. In many cases, the best way to ensure accessibility is to have a qualified Sign Language Interpreter.
Who is responsible for paying for an interpreter for a Deaf individual?
A company or organization is responsible for payment of interpreting services.
This also includes non-profit organizations providing interpreters for public events. It is not the Deaf individuals responsibility to provide an interpreter when accessing services proved to the general public.
Can we write notes back and forth, or can the Deaf person read lips, instead of using an interpreter?
It is time consuming and still only allows for partial understanding for the Deaf since English is really their second language. Writing notes back and forth can hinder communication between those who are Deaf and hearing. A Deaf person can read and write, however, ASL is often their first language, and therefore written information may cause further confusion. Furthermore, a Deaf person who is an excellent lip reader will only get about 33% of what you are saying. For the average Deaf individual, that percentage is much lower.
If a person knows Sign Language can, they sign the information to a Deaf individual?
Interpreting is a very complex task that requires more than just knowing some Sign Language. The process of translating a message from one language to another requires a high level of proficiency in both languages. A co-worker, or someone who is responsible for other duties in your workplace, should not be put in the position of interpreting for a Deaf colleague or customer. Signing for their peer takes away from his/her ability to perform his/her assigned duties. Additionally, there is no guarantee of quality, accuracy, or confidentiality of information when not using a certified interpreter. In many cases, more damage has been done by a signer who is trying to help out, requiring more extensive interpreting time to repair the misunderstandings caused by not using an interpreter the first time.
What does it take to become an interpreter?
Interpreting is a complex task, requiring near-native skills in at least two languages as well as a deep knowledge of two cultures. A skilled interpreters job is to provide the full content of an interaction between two or more people who do not share the same language. Most interpreters have studied American Sign Language for two to five years, plus one to three years of interpreter training. They are also required to continue expanding their skills on an annual basis.
What is considered a qualified interpreter?
Qualified interpreters hold certification and/or license in their respective state(s) and participate in continuing education programs.Interpreters are assigned only to those jobs for which he/she has been determined eligible. They must possess the ability to effectively communicate and interpret between ASL and English.
All of our interpreters adhere to a strict code of professional ethics:
1. Interpreters/transliterators shall keep all assignment-related information strictly confidential.
2. Interpreters/transliterators shall render the message faithfully, always conveying the content and spirit of the speaker using language most readily understood by the person(s) they serve.
3. Interpreters/transliterators shall not counsel, advise or interject personal opinions.
4. Interpreters/transliterators shall accept assignments using discretion with regard to skill, setting and the consumers involved.
5. Interpreters/transliterators shall request compensation for services in a professional and judicious manner.
6. Interpreters/transliterators shall function in a manner appropriate to the situation.
7. Interpreters/transliterators shall strive to further their knowledge and skills.
8. Interpreters/transliterators shall strive to maintain high professional standards in compliance with the NAD/RID Code of Ethics.
How long has American Sign Language (ASL) been around?
ASL was first introduced in the Untied States in 1816 by Thomas Gallaudet, founder of the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut.
Why do I need 2 interpreters for my meeting?
Interpreting is both a mental and physical process. Interpreting for an extended length of time can be exhausting. When an assignment is over 1-2 hours, two interpreters will be scheduled. The interpreters will relieve each other approximately every 20 minutes to ensure that the message is interpreted accurately for the full length of your assignment. Research has shown that an interpreters' ability to mentally process the message and interpret it accurately can diminish after 20 minutes. Most interpreters are usually unaware that his or her accuracy has decreased. Thus, misinformation is being unwittingly transmitted. Additionally, the rate of repetitive motion injuries among Sign Language interpreters is very high (some studies have shown over 60% of interpreters suffering some injuries that require medical treatment).
