The Sign Language Translator/Interpreter in the Educational Context: Ergonomic Risks and Challenges

Abstract

In 2010, the profession of Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) Translator and Interpreter was regulated, but its working conditions still inadequately align with the specific demands of the role, considering the potential ergonomic risks associated with the profession. This activity plays a crucial role in the educational context, representing challenges that need to be discussed and managed for inclusive schooling to truly occur. In an exploratory qualitative research on the effectiveness of the inclusion process at the Federal Institute of Piauí–IFPI, various factors contributing to the development of occupational injuries and illnesses in this profession were identified, highlighting the difficulties in meeting minimum requirements for health and occupational safety in the interpretative activity. This activity places significant demands on the physical, mental, and emotional capabilities of the interpreter, which can lead to exhaustion at various levels and even compromise their performance, as fatigue strongly impacts the efficiency of mental processes and, therefore, their capacity for interpretation. To truly be effective, inclusion policies need to focus on improving the working conditions of interpreters by implementing programs to prevent Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) and mental stress, rational organization of working hours, expanding the professional workforce, and incorporating technologies that facilitate interpretative activities.