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!