resources for safety of interpreters

[Guest guest]

Hi group:

I wanted to ask for help regarding a problem that I've had as an

interpreter in the past and my staff has faced now sporadically.

It's related to the safety of the interpreter. Here are two

examples and the issues therein.

1. Interpreting for a health care provider who may expose the

interpreter to risk from radioactivity, contagious disease or

illness, or other health safety issues. The hiring health facility

doesn't impose the same safety standards on the interpreter that

they do on their own staff.

2. Interpreting for mentally fragile patients who are suicidal or

homocidal. The staff/provider leaves the room after the initial

interview, leaving the patient sitting with the interpreter. Again,

the hiring organization does not impose the same safety standards as

they do with their own staff.

Our interpreters need to be able to advocate for themselves when

entering into an unknown situation. Is there a guide, standard, or

something that is available in order to educate the interpreters AND

the organizations that hire those interpreters? Your help would be

greatly appreciated!