Process to Request an ASL Interpreter

Requesting an ASL Interpreter

Departments and event coordinators (“event planners”) may request ASL interpreters through the online process.  “Events” may include venues such as performances, orientation sessions, or other program activities. The Office for University Accessibility coordinates ASL interpreters for employees and events at all campuses.  OUA staff are available to assist planners in creating language for promotional materials or determining the necessary services to provide access.  

Process

To request an ASL Interpreter, fill out the online Form to Request an American Sign Language Interpreter. The form will ask you for details such as:

• Event name
• Date
• Beginning time and ending time
• Description of the event
• Contact person and text/phone number the day of the event
• If known, the name of the person requesting the interpreter

For Event Planners:

• Submit your request at least seven days prior to the event using the online Form to Request an American Sign Language Interpreter.
• When an interpreter has been scheduled, confirmation will be emailed to the requester.
• If OUA is unable to secure an ASL interpreter, notice will be provided to the requester at least one day prior to the event date.
• OUA will arrange for interpreters and cover expenses in situations where a particular person has requested an interpreter to attend a University-sponsored event or program. 
• Event planners have two options:
  1. Wait to initiate the request for ASL with OUA until you receive a specific request. Requests made with less than seven days’ notice are not guaranteed to be filled.
  2. Fill out the form in advance of knowing if a person will need an interpreter and contact OUA to cancel the request seven days prior to the event if no specific individual has requested services. Failure to cancel the request in a timely manner may result in the department being billed for services. 
• Event planners are expected to include language in their program announcement to let attendees know who to contact if they need to request an ASL interpreter or other accommodation with a clear date by which the request must be received. Suggested language would be: 
  • “To request an ASL interpreter or other accommodation to attend this event, please contact [Name of Event Contact Person/Dept] at XXX@ohio.eduno later than YYYdate.”
• In preparation for the event, review your event space to decide placement and lighting with the best visibility for those utilizing ASL interpreters. You may choose to allot designated seating near to the interpreters. 
• If you wish to provide ASL interpreters regardless of request, OUA will provide a list of approved interpreters and guidance for you to coordinate these services at the department’s expense. 

For Event Attendees

Faculty, staff, students and members of the public seeking to attend an OHIO-sponsored event or program are asked to contact the event planner to make their request for an ASL interpreter.