(As per the RID Code of Professional Conduct)
- Interpreters are expected to respect the confidentiality of students and the program. Information disclosed to interpreters should not be shared with any parties except for program staff on an as-needed basis. Although confidentiality is a professional courtesy extended to students, Interpreters should inform students of situations when they will be required to report disclosed information.
- Interpreters are expected to render messages faithfully, including all aspects of the message in the language of the student; errors should be corrected quickly and quietly. Interpreters are to refrain from providing counsel or advice to students, rather referrals to the appropriate program staff should be provided.
- Interpreters are expected to present themselves in a professional demeanor and appearance. Interpreters are to arrive on time to assignments, make necessary adaptations, know one’s limitations, and be apprised of the workplace policies. Interpreters are encouraged to disclose and/ or avoid dual or conflicting roles and request support when needed. Interpreters are to refrain from using confidential interpreted information for personal, monetary, or professional gain. Interpreters are to refrain from harassing and/or coercing students and their decisions for any reason.
- Interpreters are expected to demonstrate respect for all students, staff, instructors, and other professionals at the college. Interpreters are to honor student preferences and/or requests, with regards to language preferences, and render the message accordingly. Interpreters are to obtain permission from Deaf Services prior to bringing interns to assignments. Interpreters are expected to facilitate communication access, equality, and will empower students to be independent consumers.
- Interpreters are expected to always demonstrate a civil and professional demeanor towards colleagues. Interpreters are encouraged to assist and encourage peers and collaborate as needed to foster the delivery of effective interpreting services. Approaching colleagues privately to discuss breaches of ethical or professional conduct is encouraged. Only after an unsuccessful attempt to resolve conflicts, should formal reports be brought to the attention of Deaf Services.
- Interpreters are expected to honor assignment commitments for the duration of the semester; immediate notification should be provided when an interpreter will be late or unable to attend the assignment. Interpreters are expected to promote effective interpreting conditions and decline or stop conditions that are not safe, healthy, or conducive to effective interpreting. Interpreters are to inform immediate and/or program staff of problems to seek remedies.