Migrant workers as informal interpreters on construction sites

In response to the challenges arising from employing large numbers of migrant workers on construction projects, the industry has found ways of communicating within teams with speakers of multiple languages. One widely used strategy is using a bilingual worker to facilitate communication. However, despite the importance of this language work for safety, relations and productivity, this interpreter position is kept informal and is also under-researched. Specifically, there has not been an in-depth study from a linguistic approach or that provides an emic perspective from informal interpreters. Therefore, this thesis investigates the work of informal interpreters on construction sites. This is done to contribute to a better understanding of these vital language practices and to inform best practice regarding the use of bilingual migrant workers as informal interpreters. It is argued that this language work should be part of a recognised and managed position in the workplace. This study uses a qualitative approach, employing ethnographic methods. Through visits to four construction sites in London and undertaking forty interviews, with international participants, it has been possible to describe who some of these informal interpreters are and what language work they do. This answers the two broad research questions: (1) Who are the informal interpreters and why do they perform this task? And (2) What language work do the informal interpreters do and how? The data was analysed through a language and identity theory framework. The identity approach provides insights into the identities of informal interpreters in construction and their reasons for performing this language work; with findings that show that some migrant workers invest in their language skills with the hope that this will improve their social and/or economic situation. The translanguaging lens leads to a better comprehension of the varied ways in which these bilingual workers facilitate communication. This thesis contributes to knowledge about communication practices on construction sites internationally, with data and insights gained about practices in many countries because of the diversity of interview participants and the global nature of the construction projects. By applying the theoretical constructs of identity and translanguaging in a new context, like construction, it also contributes to these literatures. Moreover, the findings may contribute towards better understanding of informal interpretation in other settings, such as in industries with highly multilingual workforces including manufacturing, hospitality and agriculture. Initiatives that have the potential to improve communication on multilingual construction sites and give recognition to workers’ valuable language skills are suggested.