Interpreting Services FAQ
​Sign Language

Hiring the Interpreter

Why do I need to hire an interpreter?

From a practical standpoint, you're unlikely to communicate effectively with a Deaf individual without an interpreter. EIS believes that is the most compelling reason anyone can make to hire an interpreter.

That being said, there is also a legal component to mention. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 mandates that a comprehensive variety of public and private services as well as employers must be accessible to all people, regardless of disability. When dealing with people who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, or hard of hearing, this means that communication must be accessible. The best way to ensure this is to have a professional Interpreter.

Isn't it expensive to provide interpreting services?

If you've never used an interpreter before there can be a sense of sticker shock when suddenly having to pay for a service you may not have even known existed. While the exact pricing will vary depending on a number of variables (language, location, duration) there are several ways our clients can mitigate the costs.

First, speak with your accountant. Keeping track of your interpreting expenses can be a useful habit come tax season when those costs may be partially or largely written off. 

Second, budgeted so that accessibility services is an expected piece of your annual plan can soften the process financially.

Third, exploit this new service as a marketing tool. If you're going to be paying for interpreters you might as well make it known to an underserved part of the customer pool that you now provide communication that your competitors may not. 

Who is required to pay for an interpreter?

This can be a tricky question depending on the size and type of your business but broadly speaking the ADA states that all public and private agencies that provide services to the general public, and all employers with 15 or more employees, must be accessible. This means that if your business is available to people without disabilities, it must be accessible to those with disabilities.

Therefore, it is typically the agency, service, or business which is responsible for payment for interpreting services. If you're not sure if your business should be responsible for such payments we advise that you contact your legal representation. They will have the best knowledge of the current laws and whether those are applicable to you.   

Why do I have to have two interpreters for my assignment?

Interpreting is a very taxing activity, both mentally and physically. Research has shown that an interpreter's ability to mentally process the message and interpret it accurately diminishes drastically after approximately 20 minutes of interpreting. Additionally, the rate of repetitive motion injuries among sign language interpreters is very high. Therefore, when an assignment is over 1-2 hours, two interpreters will be scheduled; they will spell each other approximately every 20 minutes, to ensure that the message is interpreted accurately for the full length of your assignment.

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Qualifications

Someone in my office knows sign language. Can I have that person interpret for us?

We often encounter situations where good intentioned individuals who know a little or are even fluent in a language try to act as an impromptu interpreter in professional settings. It might seem logical in the moment but the results can be problematic. We think of it like having a strange noise coming from under the hood of your car, but instead of taking it to an actual mechanic, you ask the advice of a co-worker who tinkers with cars in their spare time. It might work out this time but we wouldn't suggest risking it.   

Professional Interpreting is a complex task that requires more than knowledge of some sign language. The process of translating from one language to another requires a high level of proficiency in both languages, as well as knowing principles of accurate interpretation. Professional Sign Language Interpreters hold certification from national/state professional agencies and carry professional liability insurance. In the case of a ‘signer’ who may work in your facility, there is no guarantee of quality, accuracy, or confidentiality of information.

How do I know if an interpreter is qualified?

There are national and state testing systems in place to evaluate an interpreter's skills. All Empire Interpreting Service interpreters (except apprentices) have been individually screened and/or passed the national examination administered by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. (RID) or the National Association of the Deaf, (NAD), which tests knowledge of culture, ethics, and interpreting skills. This is a very rigorous examination which guarantees a minimum level of competency.

Of course, no one interpreter can be qualified for every situation, so EIS holds the responsibility to gather as much information about your assignment as possible to determine which interpreter(s) will best fit your needs.

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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.

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Any additional ?'s

Please call the office, we would be happy to discuss any further questions/concerns.

Thank you for choosing Empire Interpreting Service™ to meet your communication needs.