M/516 - Interpretation Services

This document sets out requirements for the quality and transmission of sound and image input to
interpreters and specifies the characteristics of the audio and video signals. The components of typical
interpreting systems are specified in ISO 20109. Together with either permanent (see ISO 2603) or
mobile (see ISO 4043) booths, these interpreting systems form the interpreters’ working environment.
In addition to setting out the requirements for on-site interpreting, where participants (speakers
and members of the audience) and interpreters are at the same location, this document specifies
requirements for different varieties of distance interpreting situations in which the interpreters are
not at the same location as one or more of the conference participants.
This document also addresses the work of manufacturers and providers of simultaneous interpreting
equipment and technical staff.
In conjunction with either ISO 2603 or ISO 4043, this document and ISO 20109 provide the relevant
requirements both for the quality and transmission of sound and image provided to interpreters and
for the equipment needed in the booths, the conference room and the distant site(s).

ISO 20108:2017 sets out requirements for the quality and transmission of sound and image input to interpreters and specifies the characteristics of the audio and video signals. The components of typical interpreting systems are specified in ISO 20109. Together with either permanent (see ISO 2603) or mobile (see ISO 4043) booths, these interpreting systems form the interpreters' working environment. In addition to setting out the requirements for on-site interpreting, where participants (speakers and members of the audience) and interpreters are at the same location, ISO 20108:2017 specifies requirements for different varieties of distance interpreting situations in which the interpreters are not at the same location as one or more of the conference participants.
ISO 20108:2017 also addresses the work of manufacturers and providers of simultaneous interpreting equipment and technical staff.
In conjunction with either ISO 2603 or ISO 4043, ISO 20108:2017 and ISO 20109 provide the relevant requirements both for the quality and transmission of sound and image provided to interpreters and for the equipment needed in the booths, the conference room and the distant site(s).

ISO 20109:2016 specifies requirements for equipment used for simultaneous interpreting.
Accessibility requirements are defined in Annex A.
Requirements for booths furniture are defined in Annex B.
Requirements on the system operation are defined in Annex C.
In conjunction with either ISO 2603 or ISO 4043, ISO 20108 and this document provide the relevant requirements both for the quality and transmission of sound and image provided to interpreters and for the equipment needed in the booths.

ISO 4043:2016 provides requirements and recommendations for the manufacturing of mobile simultaneous interpreting booths. The main features of mobile booths that distinguish them from permanent simultaneous interpreting booths are that they can be dismantled, moved and set up in a conference room not equipped with permanent booths. This document also ensures the usability and accessibility of booths for all interpreters, including those with special needs.
Requirements for the use and siting of mobile booths are described in Annex A.
In conjunction with either ISO 2603 or this document, ISO 20108 and ISO 20109 provide the relevant requirements both for the quality and transmission of sound and image provided to interpreters and for the equipment needed in the booths.

ISO 2603:2016 provides requirements and recommendations for building and renovating permanent booths for simultaneous interpreting in new and existing buildings. This document also ensures the usability and accessibility of booths for all interpreters, including those with special needs.
It is applicable to all types of permanent booths, using built-in or portable equipment.
In conjunction with either this document or ISO 4043, ISO 20108 and ISO 20109 provide the relevant requirements both for the quality and transmission of sound and image provided to interpreters and for the equipment needed in the booths.