Supporting the successful roll-out of a global health and safety programme

Client goal

Pennon, a UK-based water utility and waste management company, was introducing a new health and safety programme, ‘HomeSafe’, across its 320+ sites. To support a successful roll-out, the company required language support to deliver key messages clearly and consistently to its multilingual workforce.

What we did

RWS Language Solutions supported the implementation of the project by translating posters, written material, training and e-learning documentation and video scripts into Bulgarian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish and Romanian, as well as providing interpreters for on-site training sessions at seven Viridor sites across the UK. Translation Over a period of eight months, we translated more than 115,000 words into five languages and produced the localized training videos. By using translation software, we could ensure consistency of terminology across all content while speeding up the translation process. Interpreting For each site, we assembled a team of interpreters for the duration of the project to ensure continuity for the training team. A close working relationship between interpreter and training team was critical to allow all course participants to take an active part in discussions. To ensure all staff attended all eight training modules, our interpreters worked day and night shifts to suit shift patterns, production targets and demands. Our interpreting manager worked closely with each site to ensure interpreters were available, as needed, often at short notice. The interpreters were chosen not only for their language skills but for their experience in delivering similar projects. Our interpreting manager ensured all interpreters were briefed at the start of the project, including providing relevant background documentation so that they understood exactly what the client required.

Outcome

Between June and November 2018, we provided 31 interpreters for 193 appointments. The appointments varied between three and 12 hours, some running through the night, depending on the shifts and languages required.

“I just wanted to say thank you for the support I’ve received from the RWS team during the delivery of our HomeSafe programme. Without the support of the interpreters it simply could not have happened. The team have gone above and beyond and that has been much appreciated.  Good job!” “RWS’s interpreting manager oversaw the whole project from start to finish. Thanks to her proactive and flexible approach, the project was completed successfully and nothing slipped through the net. From the start, her understanding of our needs was spot on and her customer service exceptional.” “Your team of professional interpreters went above and beyond the ‘core contractual obligations’. They were a true pleasure to work alongside – very genuine and passionate professionals that actively participated and believed in the programme.”