We answer you: the 90-minute interpretation (or the interpretation that lasts 90 minutes) refers to the fact that a single interpreter cannot interpret more than an hour and a half of speech at a conference. If the conference lasts longer than that time, it is necessary to have two translators.
Below, we are going to list some fundamental aspects of the translation and interpretation sector for a better understanding.
Simultaneous translation is a specialized service that requires intense concentration.
Simultaneous interpreters have the ability to listen to and analyze speech in the source language while translating it almost instantly into the target language, being able to preserve the essence and precision of the original.
In this way, they adjust to cultural differences and the expectations of the target audience.
This task involves uninterrupted attention, since any distraction can result in errors or loss of message coherence.
Therefore, with the aim of preserving the quality of interpretation, rules have been created (present in the deontological codes of interpreter associations) to ensure that no one or nothing is harmed: neither the message that is to be transmitted, nor the interpreter. (due to exhaustion).
According to the AICE (Association of Conference Interpreters of Spain), an optimal interpretation should not exceed 90 minutes of continuous interpretation.
For events, meetings or conferences that exceed this duration, it is highly recommended to hire at least two interpreters per language combination. In this way, they can work in shifts of 20-30 minutes each, which allows the interpreter to recover (while one performs the interpretation, the other recovers) always maintaining the highest quality of service.
