Definition of translation and the role of the translator
Translation is the process whereby written text is transferred from one language into the written form of another.
The professional translator reflects the meaning of the source text accurately in the translated text. This means that information, ideas, opinions and cultural aspects are reflected in the translated text.
Many translators translate between two languages but some handle more than two. Many translate only into their strongest language, which is usually the language that they grew up speaking. However, speaking two or more languages well is not the only requirement for the professional translator. Specialist knowledge and skills are also necessary to translate text to a professional standard. The ability to use technology is also increasingly required. Translators are likely to have undertaken professional training in translation and engage regularly in continuous professional development.
The professional translator treats information received through his or her work as confidential. S/he has good knowledge of the subject areas in which s/he translates, e.g. health, business, law or literature. S/he declines to take on work that is outside his/her professional expertise. S/he adheres to the common code of conduct, as stipulated by the organisation with which s/he is registered as a professional translator.
For further detail on the technical specification of the role of the translator, please see the national occupational standards for translation.
Principles of professional practice
The text below distils the common essentials of the principles of professional practice. These are based on the code of ethics from registration bodies which operate in the UK, in particular the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.
You, the professional translator, must show that you adhere to the following principles of professional practice.
This means that you:
- meet the standard of performance as described in the national occupational standards in translation
- treat all information you receive in the course of your duties as confidential, unless required to disclose by law
- are impartial and maintain integrity and professionalism
- do not accept an assignment which is beyond your competence
- explain the principles of professional practice if unethical demands are made on you
- disclose any information, including conflicts of interest, which may make you unsuitable for an assignment
- demonstrate a commitment to continuing professional development
- support colleague translators sensitively in the course of their duties
- respect the ethics and the working practices of other professions
- do not discriminate against parties on any grounds
- do not bring the profession into disrepute
- adhere to the code of conduct as expressed by your registration body
Articles above are extracted from 'National Occupational Standards in Translation (revised 2007) - http://www.cilt.org.uk/standards/nos_standards_translation_revised07.pdf