BrauerTraining Code of Ethics For Remote Interpreters

1. BrauerTraining Code of Ethics For Remote Interpreters Ethical principles that guide the behavior of Remote Dialogue Interpreters

2. Definitions “Electronic”means a mode of communication and information acquisition, transmission, and storage, such as used in computers, tablets, cell phones, and similar devices

3. Definitions “Technology”means the specific devices, materials and methods used to solve practical problems and the application of practical sciences to industry or commerce.

4. #1.1 Technology Platforms Remote interpreters understand that technology is the backbone platform for service delivery and essential for vital and routine operations.

5. #1.2 Access to Technology Platforms Remote interpreters shall keep themselves informed about the technology that will advance the quality of their service delivery and shall invest in and maintain such systems to meet their clients’ needs for electronic communication.

6. #1.3 Technical Competencies Remote Interpreters shall become proficient in the technological skills and tools required for competent and ethical practice and shall seek appropriate training and consultation to stay current with emerging technologies.

7. #1.4 Rendering Electronic Services Remote Interpreters providing services through electronic means must follow strict codes of conduct and standards of practice, incorporating these values into their practices to increase the protection of vulnerable populations serviced without a face-to-face relationship.

8. #1.5 Proper Use of Technology Remote Interpreters shall strive to use technological tools with skill and thoughtfulness, understanding the changing dynamics of online relationships, the advantages and drawbacks of non-face-to-face interactions, and the ways in which technology-based interpreting services can be appropriately rendered.

9. #1.6 Geographical Diversity Remote interpreters shall know the strengths and limitations of electronic modalities, processes and practice models to provide services to a wide range of people who may be members of minority or vulnerable populations in diverse or remote regions of the world and under many different living conditions.

10. #1.7 Cultural Sensitivity Remote interpreters shall give consideration to linguistic variations in both languages and shall develop skills and techniques that are attuned, sensitive and respectful of clients’ cultural or bicultural issues, or marginalized experiences in their particular environments.

11. #1.8 Differing Regulatory Competencies Remote Interpreters use electronic means of communications in the understanding that their practice may be subject to regulation in both, the jurisdiction in which the interpreter provides services, as well as the jurisdiction in which the client receives the services.

12. #2.1 Confidentiality The remote interpreter maintains in total confidence all information handled, accessed or obtained during the encounter and never uses that information, nor divulges it.

13. #2.2 Privacy The remote interpreter shall take all necessary precautions to protect the privacy of all parties in the encounter.

14. #2.3 Non-Disclosure The remote interpreter never – ever - discusses, reports, or offers an opinion concerning matters in which he/she is currently or has been engaged in the past.

15. #3.1 Ethical Conduct The remote interpreter avoids gaining any personal advantage on any encounter and does not attempt to use his/her position to secure privileges or exemptions.

16. #3.2 Impartiality The remote interpreter is always neutral, impartial, and unbiased and treats all parties with respect and trust.

17. #3.3 Non-discrimination The remote interpreted treats all parties in the encounter with dignity, respect and compassion avoiding all types of discriminate on the basis of gender, disability, race, color, national origin, age, socioeconomic educational status, or religious, political, or sexual orientation.

18. #4.1 Accuracy The remote interpreter renders the information as accurately and completely as possible, conveying also the original spirit and intent.

19. # 4.2 Completeness The remote interpreter renders the source-language message with no omissions or changes and adding nothing to the message.

20. #5.1 Professional Conduct The remote interpreter displays professional behavior at all times and uses language and tone of voice at the highest level of customer service towards all parties in the encounter.

21. #5.2 Conflict of Interest The remote interpreter discloses any real or perceived conflict of interest which would affect his/her objectivity in the delivery of services.

22. #5.3 Part of a Team The remote interpreter understands that he/she works as part of a virtual and physical team and behaves accordingly.

23. #5.4 Reporting Obstacles to Practice If the remote interpreter has any reservations about competency or technology to interpret an assignment, he/she will immediately notify the parties.

24. #6.1 Representation The remote interpreter shall accurately and completely represent his/her credentials, certifications, training and experience, advertising and performing only those services he/she is trained to provide.

25. #6.2 ProficiencyThe remote interpreter meets the proficiency standard to pass any screening examinations or certifications required.

26. #6.3 Professional Development The remote interpreter seeks out opportunities to enhance his or her professional skills and knowledge at all times.

27. #7.1 Role Boundaries The remote interpreter avoids personal involvement and respects the boundaries of the roles of all parties.

28. #7.2 Role Boundaries The remote interpreter does not counsel, refer, give advice, or express personal opinions to any person before, during or after the encounter.

29. #7.3 Role Boundaries The remote interpreter does not engage in any other activities that may be construed to constitute a service other than interpreting.

30. #7.4 Role Boundaries The remote interpreter shall not contact customers or any party to the encounter outside the interpreting assignment andshall not solicit services from those clientsor third parties.

31. #8 Use of assets and connections The remote interpreter shall not use for private gain or other personal advantage, the time or facilities, hardware and software, equipment or supplies, including electronic and digital devices and means of communication that are not the property of the interpreter.

32. #9 Compensation The fee schedule agreed to between the client/LSP and the remote interpreter shall be the maximum compensation sought.

33. Acknowledgements: BrauerTraining Code of Ethics is loosely based on the Standards for Technology of the NASW & ASWB (National Association of Social Workers & Association of Social Work Boards) and Nataly Kelly’s Telephone Interpreting: A Comprehensive Guide to the Profession