Guidelines for Simultaneous Interpretation in Clear Language

An interpreter sits in a sound-proof booth, listens to the speaker through head-phones, then interprets the message into a microphone in a second language. At most conferences, there are two or three people who take turns actively interpreting. Participants listen to the interpretation on headphones.

For organizers

• Provide the interpreters, including sign language interpreters, with enough copies of speeches, visual aids, handouts and other materials in both languages.
• Have copies of all materials available ahead of time.
• Use interpreters who know the organization and its jargon, if possible. Provide a glossary of terms and acronyms in both languages.
• Know the language distribution of participants. For example, if there are a lot of French speakers, have more anglophone interpreters since it is easier to translate into your first language.
• Sign language interpretation works differently and particular needs should be discussed in advance with the sign interpreters.