What is the minimum number of interpreters needed per team?
The high mental stress incurred in interpreting results in a steep fatigue curve after 20 to 30 minutes, which has also been confirmed by international studies. As a rule of thumb, it can be said that one single interpreter can work alone for a maximum period of up to 45 minutes. After this period two interpreters will have to take turns in interpreting on accounts of health protection and quality assurance. For this reason a day-long event, during which interpreters work into one language, usually requires two interpreters. At least three interpreters are needed with several languages, so that they can take turns after approximately 30 minutes – according to the subject in question.
