Original, relevant, and timely content of interest to ASL and sign language interpreting students and practitioners, including introductory information about deafness and American Deaf Culture.

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Why should I consider hiring a deaf employee?

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Where can I find information on laws that specifically apply to employers concerning deaf employee or job applicants?

 You might begin with this TerpTopics page; but, don't stop there - continue to ask questions and gather as much information as you can.  We are confident that you will be glad you did.

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Will I have to hire a contract interpreter every time I want to speak with an employee who is deaf?  Will I have to hire a permanent staff interpreter to have on hand so I can communicate with an employee who is deaf?

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When should I use an interpreter to communicate with an employee who is deaf?

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Aside from interpreter services, what are the other methods of communication that may be appropriate to use when communicating with an employee who is deaf?

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Where can I find tips on protocol or etiquette related to sign language interpreters?

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Where can I find tips on protocol or etiquette related to deaf employees?

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Do deaf workers have a union?

 As far as we know, there are no unions in business specifically to support the employment needs of deaf workers.  

There are many professional organizations established to support deaf workers in various fields.  For example, the Association of Medical Professionals with Hearing Loss (AMPHL) and  Deaf and Hard of Hearing In Government (DHHIG), which supports U.S. federal workers.

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How could my hearing workers communicate with a deaf coworker?

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Is it inappropriate or illegal or otherwise wrong to seek workers who are deaf for placement in loud work environments that could be a threat to hearing health?

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If I hire a deaf worker and then also have to pay for a sign language interpreter, isn't that like having to pay for two people to do the job of one person?  That's hardly fair or cost-effective.  Why would I do that?

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