Team Interpreters
Published: October 10, 2023
It is an industry standard to provide a team of two interpreters for most assignments.
Enhancing Interpretation Accuracy
Team interpreters actively support one another. They work in tandem, offering assistance with words or phrases that may have been misheard or misinterpreted. This collaborative approach significantly enhances the accuracy and precision of the interpretation, ensuring the message is conveyed as intended. It also allows for a smoother flow of communication, especially in situations with technical jargon or unique terminology.
Preventing Repetitive Use Injuries
Over extended periods of time, ASL interpreters are at risk of developing repetitive use injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis, if they do not have the opportunity to rest their wrists and minimize strain. Working as a team of two interpreters allows for regular breaks, reducing the risk of such injuries and ensuring interpreters can maintain the highest level of service quality.
Regular Physical and Mental Breaks
While interpreters are actively interpreting, they don't have an opportunity to get a drink or use the restroom. If a sole interpreter needed to step away, the client would miss out on the content being shared. Interpreters are expected to provide continuous accessibility for clients, which wouldn't be sustainable for just one interpreter.
In addition to the need for physical breaks, interpreting is also mentally draining. Interpreters are constantly taking in one message and deciding how to best interpret it into the target language, all while also considering the clients' language styles and preferences, and their role in fostering an inclusive environment.
Exceptions to Consider
There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you require an interpreter to be on-call for sporadic needs during an extended assignment, a single interpreter may suffice.
If you have a short event, you may still consider hiring a team of two interpreters if there is little room for error. If you want to make sure your message comes across appropriately and accurately the first time, a team interpreter can help ensure that there are no misinterpretations.