Interpreter’s Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Fluency in the languages to be interpreted.
• To facilitate understanding in communication by faithfully interpreting, into the target
language, everything being said without adding, omitting, or changing anything.
• To maintain impartiality and show no bias or preference toward either party while
interpreting.
• To interpret in the first form at all times; clarify when necessary (informing both parties)
and maintain the highest level of confidentiality as well as abide by the code of ethics for
interpreters.
• To be aware of his/her own culture and other cultures encountered in their duties and
explaining any cultural differences when appropriate.
• To preserve the highest level of proficiency by, continuing to improve his/her
interpreting skills and ethical performance.
• Must demonstrate the highest level of customer service towards our clients and theirs at
all times.
• Perform all office functions and other reasonable, related duties as assigned or
requested
The Role of the Interpreter
The interpreter function is to facilitate oral translation between speakers of different language.
Interpreter serves as a bridge between Client and LEP, facilitating communication.
The interpreter’s main roles are as described below:
Conduit: this is the interpreter’s main role, which is to orally translate the information
between individual, acting as a conduit of the information speaking in a 1st person, as if he was
the person providing the information.
Clarifier: this is a secondary role of the interpreter who will use the proper channels to step
out of his role as a conduit, to clear out any misunderstanding of information.
Cultural Broker: this is the third function of the interpreter, which is to provide cultural
insight to both client and LEP alike when needed, to avoid conflict of interest.
*In a life-or-death situation the interpreter may step out of his/her role, to do what is needed. *
Interpreter Code of Ethics and Conduct
This code is a modification of the: Codes of Ethics from the Hospital Interpretation Program in
Seattle, WA; Boston City Hospital in Boston, MA; and the American Medical interpreters and
Translators Association (AMITAS).
Proficiency
I have met the minimum proficiency standards set by the agency in the languages for which I
am being asked to interpret as demonstrated by passing the required examinations and
receiving satisfactory training evaluations.
Confidentiality
I will treat all information learned during the interpretation as confidential, not divulging any
information obtained through my assignments, including but not limited to information gained
through interviews or access to documents and other written materials.
Accuracy: Conveying the Content and Spirit of What Is Said
I shall transmit the message in a thorough and faithful manner, considering linguistic variations
in both languages and conveying the tone and the spirit of the original message. A word for-
word interpretation may not convey the intended idea. I must determine the relevant concept
and say it in a language that is readily understandable and culturally appropriate to the listener.
In addition, I will make every effort to assure that the client has understood questions,
instructions and other information transmitted by the service provider.
Completeness: Conveying Everything That Is Said
I shall interpret everything that is said by all people in the interaction, without omitting, adding,
condensing, or changing anything. If the content to be interpreted might be perceived because
of cultural differences, as offensive, insensitive, or otherwise harmful to the dignity and well-
being of the customer, I will advise the professional of this before interpreting.
Conveying Cultural Frameworks
I shall explain cultural differences or practices to the provider(s) and clients when appropriate. I
shall practice cultural competence and sensitivity
Non-Judgmental Attitude about the Content to Be Interpreted
I understand an interpreter's function is to facilitate communication. Interpreters are not
responsible for what is said by anyone for whom they are interpreting. Even if I disagree with
what is said or think it is wrong, a lie or immoral, I will suspend judgment, make no comment,
and interpret everything accurately.
Client Self-Determination
I understand that as the interpreter, I may be asked by the client for my opinion. If this happens,
I will not influence the opinion of the clients by telling them or offering them advice as to what
action to take during or after the assignment.
Attitude toward Clients
I shall strive to always develop a relationship of trust and respect with the client by adopting a
caring, attentive, yet discreet and impartial attitude toward the client, toward his or her
questions, concerns, and needs.
I shall treat each client equally with dignity and respect regardless of race, color, gender,
religion, nationality, age, political persuasion, or life-style choice. I will be sensitive and aware of
dignity and respect within the context of the client's culture.
Acceptance of Assignments
I understand that if my level of competency or personal sentiment makes it difficult to abide by
any of the above conditions, I shall decline or withdraw from the assignment.
I will disclose any real or perceived conflict of interest that could affect my objectivity. For
example, an interpreter should refrain from providing services to family members or friends.
Compensation
I shall not accept any fee or additional money, considerations or favors for my interpreter
service from the client, patient or customer, or his friends or relatives. I further understand that
I shall not use the agency's time, facilities, equipment or supplies for private gain, nor will I use
my position to secure privileges.
Self-Evaluation
I shall represent my qualifications, certification(s), training, and experience accurately and
completely.
Ethical Violations
I shall withdraw immediately from encounters that I perceive to be in violation of the Code of
Ethics.
Professionalism
I shall always maintain professional behavior while serving or working with clients and
professionals.
