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Accessibility Guide: Sign Language Interpreting

Sign language interpreters are individuals who have been specifically trained in sign language, as well as Deaf culture and history.

"As of June 30, 2000, individuals who are compensated for providing interpreting services for deaf and hard of hearing people must be licensed with the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation, Office of Licensing and Registration (OLR)." -Maine Division of Deafness

Booking an Interpreter

• Booking should be made at least 1 month in advance. Getting a sign languageinterpreter on short notice may be possible, but may entail an additional fee
• Paying for round trip travel time for the interpreter is customary
• Expect to pay between $40-60 per hour for a sign language interpreter depending on requirements of the assignment
• It may be necessary to book a "team" depending on the length of the event or assignment
• List of Interpreting Agencies maintained by Maine Division of Deafness, Bureau of Rehabilitation, MDOL

Working with an Interpreter

• Generally, using a family or friend to interpret is not appropriate for provision of services.
• Talk to the individual, not the interpreter
• One person should talk at a time
• Provide clear line of sight between participant and interpreter
• Provide adequate lighting for interpreter to be seen
• Provide the interpreter with any written materials in advance

References / More information:

Maine Division of Deafness, Bureau of Rehabilitation

Maine Center on Deafness

Interpreting Agenices in Maine; Division of Deafness, Bureau of Rehabilitation, MDOL

Working with ASL / English Interpreters in Performing Arts Metropolitan Regional Arts Council

Design for Accessibility: A Cultural Administrator's Handbook National Endowment for the Arts

Assistive Listening Devices for People with Hearing Loss Kennedy Center

Working with People who are Deaf or Hearing Impaired Media & Disability

 

 

 

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