In a world where business happens across time zones and screens, one principle remains timeless: communication should be inclusive. As companies expand their reach through virtual meetings, digital platforms, and global teams, the importance of inclusive language—spoken, written, signed, or interpreted—has never been greater. Accessibility is no longer a courtesy; it’s a compliance requirement, a business imperative, and above all, a reflection of corporate values.

One critical component of inclusivity is American Sign Language (ASL) and its integration into communication strategies alongside multilingual translation services. While many organizations now prioritize language-to-language translation to connect with global partners and clients, adding ASL services ensures that those in the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community are not left behind. True inclusivity means everyone—regardless of ability—has equitable access to the conversation.

Why ASL Services Matter

ASL is a complete and complex language with its own grammar and structure, used by hundreds of thousands of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States and Canada. ASL interpreting services go beyond closed captioning; they provide cultural and linguistic accuracy that captioning cannot always deliver, particularly in live or technical conversations.

Companies use ASL services for live meetings, webinars, training sessions, safety briefings, and customer service interactions. These services are especially critical in industries where clarity of instruction and employee safety are paramount.

Virtual Meetings and OSHA Compliance

In the age of hybrid and remote work, virtual meetings have become an everyday tool. However, the shift to digital has presented new challenges in ensuring accessibility. Under OSHA and ADA regulations, employers are required to provide effective communication for all employees, including those with disabilities.

For example, when conducting a virtual safety briefing or an emergency procedure training, it’s not enough to send out a written summary. For employees who are Deaf, ASL interpretation may be the only fully accessible means of communication. Similarly, visually impaired participants benefit from audio descriptions, accessible slide formats, and screen reader-compatible content. Ensuring that virtual meetings are accessible helps companies remain compliant with federal laws and creates a more inclusive, respectful workplace.

Industries Using ASL and Multilingual Translation Together

Many companies now combine ASL interpretation with spoken language translation to bridge both linguistic and accessibility gaps. These services are increasingly used in:

• Energy and Oil & Gas: Safety briefings, technical training, and cross-border operations often require interpretation in multiple languages—including ASL for domestic employees. Companies with diverse workforces or global operations, such as Chevron, BP, and Shell, often employ inclusive communication tools.
• Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: Whether for patient education, clinical trials, or internal communications, healthcare organizations must ensure that their information is accessible to all.
• Technology Firms: Tech companies host international conferences and product demos that often include live ASL interpreters and translated captions to reach all users.
• Education and Government Services: Public institutions are among the most compliant with accessibility standards, offering ASL services for events, training, and community outreach alongside multilingual services.

Hiring the Hearing and Visually Impaired in Energy

In the energy sector, inclusion is slowly but steadily gaining ground. Some progressive energy companies are making it a point to hire Deaf, hard-of-hearing, or visually impaired professionals, especially in roles that can be adapted with the right technology ASLand training. These include:

• Data analysis and remote monitoring: Often suitable for visually impaired workers with screen reader technology.
• Environmental compliance and policy roles: Accessible to Deaf professionals with strong written and visual communication tools.
• Administrative and procurement roles: Which can be structured to support both hearing and visually impaired workers.

Companies like Exelon, NextEra Energy, and Entergy have made public commitments to diversity hiring and are actively creating pathways for workers with disabilities. Some partner with organizations like the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) or Perkins School for the Blind to recruit qualified candidates.

Communication That Reaches Everyone

GlobalSpeak Translations is a Houston-based language services company with over 30 years of experience serving the energy, logistics, legal, and healthcare sectors. As a woman-owned business with a global mindset, GlobalSpeak specializes in complex technical translations and live interpretation services—including ASL interpretation—for both in-person and virtual environments.

Whether it’s a multilingual safety training for offshore crews or an executive briefing involving Deaf professionals, GlobalSpeak ensures your message is accurately and inclusively delivered. Their team of certified interpreters and translators is equipped to meet the needs of diverse populations across languages and abilities.

To learn more about how GlobalSpeak can support your next meeting or project, visit www.globalspeaktranslations.com or call (844) 557-7325.

A Call for Introspection and Inclusion

Inclusive language is more than a strategy, it’s a mindset. It invites us to think about who’s not in the room, or who might be there but can’t fully engage. In a world shaped by virtual connection, it’s time to bring intention to inclusion.

Employers, event organizers, and educators must ask themselves: Is everyone truly part of this conversation?

By embracing ASL and language translation services together, we open the door to broader, more meaningful communication. We make our workplaces safer, our culture richer, and our values visible.

The future of business is accessible. Let’s make sure it’s heard, seen, and understood by everyone.