FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the obligation of businesses under the ADA for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing?
Businesses have a duty to provide equally effective communication with all people-Deaf or Hearing. For more information you may want to take a look at the American's with Disability Act or the website from the National Association of the Deaf.
I understand the Deaf person. Can't they just read my lips?
40 to 60 percent of English sounds look alike when spoken. On the average, even the best lip readers only understand 25 percent of what is said to them, and many individuals understand far less.
A Deaf or hard of hearing individual may be able to speak clearly, but that does not mean that he or she can lip read effectively.
Can I just write the Deaf person a note?
Many Deaf people consider American Sign Language (ASL) to be their first language. Because the grammar and syntax of ASL differ considerably from English, writing back and forth may not provide effective communication. Also, written communications are often slow and cumbersome and information that would otherwise be spoken may not be written. Thus, the Deaf person is not receiving "equal access" to information that a hearing person would receive.
Who is responsible for paying for an interpreter for a Deaf individual?
In most cases, it is the responsibility of the company, organization, or service provider to provide equally effective communication to Deaf individuals.
Nonprofit and for-profit organizations are responsible for providing this communication access.
Who is a qualified interpreter?
Learning to interpret is a separate skill from learning sign language, and requires many years to become proficient. Hiring a skilled interpreter assures professionalism, expertise and equal accessibility. A qualified interpreter is an interpreter who is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary.
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
This act was passed into law in 1990. It makes everything more accessible and user friendly for individuals with disabilities. This act requires business and organizations (profit and non-profit) to provide "equal access" to persons with disabilities.
The ADA provides legal protection in the following areas: employment, state and local government, public transportation, public accommodation, and telecommunications relay services.
When is it appropriate to schedule two interpreters?
Interpreting is mentally and physically demanding. Studies have proven that even the most highly trained interpreter will lose the ability to adequately and comprehensively communicate if they work alone for more than one hour. Therefore, two interpreters are required for any assignment lasting longer than one hour. Additionally, this decreases the occurrence of cumulative motion injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Can my business receive any tax credits for the costs of providing interpreting services?
Yes. Businesses may claim a tax credit of up to 50 percent of eligible access expenditures that are over $250, but less than $10,250. The amount credited may be up to $5,000 per tax year.
Eligible access expenditures include the costs of qualified interpreters, but please check with your accountant.
How does the interpreting process work?
The first time you utilize the services of a Sign Language Interpreter, you may feel nervous or awkward. This is normal. However, once the appointment starts, you will see the the communication is smooth and efficient.
It is important for you to know that the interpreter will be signing everything you say, and will be saying everything that the Deaf person signs. It is typical to want to watch the interpreter as they sign. However, it is most appropriate to watch the Deaf person as you speak, as well as watching the Deaf person as they sign (although the voice you hear will be coming from the interpreter).
It is helpful to speak directly to the Deaf person (avoid of saying “tell her…” Also, the interpreter will speak in first person as well when voicing for the Deaf person. The communication and relationship are between yourself and the Deaf person. The interpreter is there to facilitate the communication and not a party to the situation.
I am sure you will find the process smooth and enjoyable for all involved.