Physical health experiences and working conditions of sign language interpreters at the University of Education, Winneba

Abstract

This study explored the physical health experiences and working conditions of sign language interpreters at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) guided by Karasek’s Demand-Control Theory using a qualitative approach. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and non-participant observations. Six participants were used in the study, selected through census sampling. Of the total participants, four (4) were males and two (2) were females. Findings revealed that sign language interpreters frequently experienced back pains, neck pains, shoulders pains, wrist pains and waist pains and repetitive strain injuries. The participants mentioned factors that contributed to sign language interpreters’ physical health experiences such as prolong interpreting sessions, poor furniture, heavy workload, and poor ventilation. These factors significantly contributed to sign language interpreters’ poor physical health experiences. Despite the poor working conditions and inadequate institutional support protocols, sign language interpreters employed self-initiated coping strategies such as stretching, posture adjustments, massages, and informal breaks to manage their physical health experiences. Participants also highlighted challenges such as insufficient furniture, inadequate health policies, and limited professional development opportunities which negatively affected interpreters’ physical health and their work sustainability. The study concluded that strengthening institutional support systems, health policies and available resources could enhance the physical health and wellbeing of interpreters.