Ergonomics matters in translation and interpreting (keynote)

KeynoteTranslation and interpreting are demanding cognitive activities that are embedded in a complex system involving many actors and factors in addition to the source texts and their author(s). Other actors include colleagues, clients, project managers, and target audience, whereas factors can be as diverse as language technology, workflows, communication processes, and job security. Environmental factors in the physical sense (e.g. lighting, temperature, air quality, space) as well in the broader sense of the role of translation and interpreting in the economy and society as a whole can also influence the activity. Viewing translation and interpreting from an ergonomic perspective, with the language professionals in the center, can provide an appropriate framework to understand the impact of such actors and factors on the demanding bilingual activity that they engage in. Because their work requires close attention and concentration, translators and interpreters have to exert energy and ultimately cognitive resources to compensate for the distraction of any physical discomfort, delays in computer responsiveness, or frustration with organizational problems. In this presentation, the reasons that ergonomics matters in translation and interpreting are discussed in light of recent research. We consider the risks and health consequences associated with the physical and cognitive overload that might be related to ergonomic issues at translation and interpreting workplaces. There are implications for university education and continuing professional development if ergonomics matters are taken into account, including recommendations to prevent translators and interpreters having to learn from ’negative experience’