Last update: 04/15/2008
Interpreter referral services
Interpreter services for the deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing and hearing people of Washington state is administered by the Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) with the Department of Social and Health Services.
Contact information for interpreters and referral agencies is available on the ODHH website.
Tips for working through an interpreter
Interpreters can help facilitate communication during lectures, meetings, or other group situations. Before requesting an interpreter for a deaf person, keep in mind that an interpreter is a trained professional bound by a code of ethics. Knowing sign language does not qualify a person to act as an interpreter. It is best to use a professional interpreter.
Before requesting an interpreter, ask the person who is deaf what type of interpreter he/she prefers. Some may want a sign language interpreter skilled in American Sign Language (ASL) or signed English; others may prefer an oral interpreter; and in some settings, the interpreter may voice interpret what the deaf person wishes to express. (Voiced interpreting or sign-to-voice interpreting formerly was called reverse interpreting.)
Some tips to keep in mind when scheduling interpreter services:
Inform the interpreting service of the person's needs and in what setting the interpreting will take place. If highly technical language is being used; the service will try to match the technical needs with an interpreter who is familiar with the subject.
Discuss fees and privileges with the interpreter beforehand. Fees should be agreed upon by the interpreter or referral service before the service is performed. Such fees should not be discussed with the person who is deaf.
Treat the interpreter as a professional. It is courteous to introduce an interpreter to the group and explain why he/she is attending. Be attentive to the interpreter's special needs, such as a glass of water, a straight back chair, etc. If the interpreting situation involves lunch or other meals, the interpreter should be given the same privileges as the other group members. It is also helpful to meet with the interpreter about 15 minutes early to explain what will be covered.
If a meeting will last more than an hour and a half, it is preferable to have two interpreters. It is difficult to interpret for more than an hour and a half. If the meeting, class, or lecture will take longer, two interpreters should act on a rotating basis.
Schedule breaks during the meeting. Following a sign language or oral interpreter for a long time is tiring for a person who is deaf. Signing is also tiring for the interpreter.
Provide good lighting for the interpreter. If the interpreting situation requires darkening the room to view slides, videotapes, or films, auxiliary lighting is necessary so that the deaf person can see the interpreter. If a small lamp or spotlight can not be obtained, check to see if room lights can be dimmed but still provide enough light to see interpreter.
Speak directly to the person, not the interpreter, when using the interpreter to communicate. The interpreter is not part of the conversation and is not permitted to voice personal opinions or enter the conversation. Face the person and speak to him/her in a normal manner. If the person wants the interpreter to explain something not related to the conversation, he/she is the only one who may ask the interpreter.
Remember that the interpreter is a few words behind the speaker. Give the interpreter time to finish so that questions may be asked and the person who is deaf can join in the discussion
Permit only one person to speak at a time during group discussion. It is difficult for an interpreter to follow several people speaking at once. Ask for a brief pause between speakers to permit the interpreter to finish before the next speaker starts.
Speak clearly and in a normal tone when using an interpreter. Do not rush through a speech. The interpreter or the person who is deaf may ask the speaker to slow down or repeat a word or sentence for clarification.
As a final courtesy, thank the interpreter after the service has been performed. If there have been any problems or misunderstandings, let the interpreter or referral service know. Also, ask the person who used the service if it was satisfactory. It is always is a polite gesture to inform the referral service of your satisfaction with the interpreter.
