All interpreters contracted with ACCESS SERVICES NORTHWEST are required to remain faithful to the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Interpreter Code of Ethics. Failure to follow industry guidelines will result in termination of the provision of services contract between the interpreter and ACCESS SERVICES NORTHWEST. Below, are the tenets of the RID Code of Professional Conduct as published by RID.[1]
A code of professional conduct is a necessary component to any profession to maintain standards for the individuals within that profession to adhere. It brings about accountability, responsibility and trust to the individuals that the profession serves.
RID, along with the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), co-authored the ethical code of conduct for interpreters. Both organizations uphold high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct for interpreters. At the core of this code of conduct are the seven tenets, which are followed by guiding principles and illustrations.
The tenets are to be viewed holistically and as a guide to complete professional behavior. When in doubt, one should refer to the explicit language of the tenet.
TENETS
- 1. Interpreters adhere to standards of confidential communication.
- 2. Interpreters possess the professional skills and knowledge required for the specific interpreting situation.
- 3. Interpreters conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to the specific interpreting situation.
- 4. Interpreters demonstrate respect for consumers.
- 5. Interpreters demonstrate respect for colleagues, interns, and students of the profession.
- 6. Interpreters maintain ethical business practices.
- 7. Interpreters engage in professional development.
[1] This is a condensed version of the Code of Professional Conducts; for a complete, detailed copy, contact RID at (301) 608-0050 or view them at: NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct