Good communication is key in any workplace. But when it comes to manufacturing safety, misunderstandings can be extremely serious. If a document, sign, or piece of information is important, everyone needs to understand it. This is where dedicated manufacturing translation services come in.
Why translate health and safety documents?
Which native languages do your employees, contractors, and visitors speak?
Everyone needs a safe working environment. When we understand rules and regulations, it’s easy to assume that everyone else does, too.
In reality, making sense of safety information in another language isn’t straightforward. Technical vocabulary, unfamiliar terminology, and complex sentences can lead to misunderstandings and risks.
Consider the languages spoken across your manufacturing company and evaluate which texts should be translated. These might include:
- Wall signs (e.g ‘mind the step’)
- Safety manuals
- Workplace tours
- Incident forms
- Risk assessments
- Training videos
- Handbooks
- Warning labels
Manufacturing translations can be complex, but professional translators with industry knowledge can provide accurate and fast work.
Benefits of translating safety materials
Create a safer workspace
Making sure everyone is on the same page creates a safer working environment. It can protect employees, avoid accidents, and save time and money by limiting mistakes.
Show your team they’re valued
Manufacturing translations of safety materials show employees that they are valued and that their wellbeing is prioritized.
Meet responsibilities
In some countries, it’s the employer’s responsibility to ensure that employees understand workplace hazards and other safety information. It’s important to check the latest local safety standards and guidelines for employers.
Manufacturing translation difficulties:
Industry-specific terms
As in many technical fields, manufacturing documents often contain industry-specific terms, acronyms, and references to local organizations. These factors make translations complex, especially when there isn’t a direct equivalent in the new language.
Clarity is key
When it comes to safety, there’s no room for error. Health and safety documents or any other manufacturing translations need to be clear, concise, and accurate.
Complex projects
Some translations are in a straightforward format. Others are a little more complex. For example, an e-learning module about health and safety could contain video, audio, text, and infographics.
There are different ways to approach these types of projects depending on budget and aims. For instance, you might need to re-record a video voice-over in a new language. Or, subtitle translation might be most appropriate.
Manufacturing translation services can handle tasks of all sizes and should be able to advise you on the best type of translation for your project.
Expert knowledge needed
It can be tempting to rely on in-house employees for ad hoc translations. But can you be sure they’re accurate?
Expert manufacturing translators have industry-specific knowledge, speak at least two languages fluently, and stay up to date with the latest translation techniques. Choosing professionals means you can be confident about the quality of the translation.
Future Trans – Manufacturing translation experts
At Future Trans, we help companies around the world deliver information to MENA audiences. We have over 25 years of experience in translation and localization services.
We’re ISO17100 certified and our team is trained in QA processes so that we can provide you with highly accurate manufacturing translation services.
Please get in touch for specialist help with your next translation.
