Sarah picks up your company’s new health and safety manual. As a Deaf employee, she’s used to asking her colleagues to explain written policies, but this time, something’s different.
A small QR code sits in the corner of each section. She scans one with her phone. Immediately, a BSL interpreter appears on screen, explaining the content in her preferred language.
Many organisations struggle to make their written communications accessible to Deaf BSL users. Traditional approaches often mean creating separate BSL videos or relying on interpreters to explain documents in person. This can lead to delays in accessing important information and create barriers to workplace participation.
QR-coded BSL videos offer a practical solution that bridges this gap between written and signed communication. They connect printed materials to professional BSL translations, making information accessible at the point of need.
This blog explores what QR-coded BSL videos are, their benefits and how you can implement them within your business.
What are QR-coded BSL videos?
The way QR-coded BSL videos work is simple. Each QR code printed on your document links directly to a BSL video. Deaf users scan the code with their phone, and the BSL video opens. In the video, a professional interpreter signs the document’s content in BSL.
QR-coded videos make any printed material more accessible in BSL.
A policy document might have several QR codes – one for each section.
A letter to customers might have a single QR code linking to a BSL translation of the entire message. Each code takes users straight to the relevant BSL video.
The system works with standard smartphones and tablets. Most modern devices automatically recognise QR codes through their camera app, so there’s no need for special software. Users simply point their camera at the code to watch the video.
You can add QR codes to any printed materials, from training manuals or HR policies to customer letters and marketing materials. When scanned, these codes direct users to high-quality BSL videos hosted on secure servers.
Implementation is easy and requires minimal technical support. You only need to incorporate the QR codes into your documents and ensure the linked videos are professionally produced and properly hosted. The end-user experience remains straightforward: scan, watch, understand.
The benefits of QR-coded BSL videos
QR-coded BSL videos support a wide range of business communications. Policy documents, employee handbooks and health and safety guidelines can be made accessible to Deaf readers. The same approach works for customer communications like letters, bills and service updates, plus marketing materials such as brochures, flyers and product guides.
Deaf users find the system straightforward to use. Accessing BSL content takes seconds. Users just point their device at the code, tap the notification and watch the BSL video. The system works across Apple and Android devices, making it accessible to nearly everyone.
QR-coded BSL videos can also help your organisation meet its legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010. The system provides equal access to information for Deaf BSL users while maintaining the efficiency of printed communications.
They offer excellent value. Rather than producing separate BSL versions of documents or arranging in-person interpretation, you can just add QR codes to your existing materials. The videos remain available 24/7, allowing Deaf users to access information at their convenience.
The professional presentation reinforces your organisation’s commitment to accessibility. Clear, high-quality BSL videos delivered through a modern interface demonstrate respect for Deaf BSL users while maintaining your brand’s standards.
The system also makes updating content simple. When the information changes, you can just update the linked video without reprinting documents.
Implementing QR-coded BSL videos
Creating effective QR-coded BSL videos starts with professional translation. A qualified BSL interpreter will work from your source material to create clear, accurate, signed content. The translation process will consider both language and cultural aspects to ensure the message resonates with Deaf BSL users.
When producing the printed materials, the QR codes should be prominent enough to spot but not intrusive to the document’s design. You should place the codes consistently, such as in the top right corner of each section. The code itself should be sized appropriately. Too small makes scanning difficult, while too large can impact the design.
You should test each code across different devices to confirm it scans OK. You also need to check the linked videos for playback quality, loading speed and mobile compatibility.
Test your QR codes regularly to make sure everything works as it should.
When you need to update your documents, start with the BSL videos. Replace the old video with a new one showing the updated information, then print your new materials with the same QR code. This way, Deaf BSL users will see the latest version as soon as it’s ready. Keep track of which version of each document matches which BSL video to avoid any mix-ups between old and new content.
How Sign Solutions can help
Sign Solutions provides comprehensive support for implementing QR-coded BSL videos. Our team of NRCPD-registered interpreters creates professional BSL translations that capture both the content and context of your communications. We also provide ongoing support and advice to help you keep your BSL content current and accessible.
To find out more and for expert advice on implementing QR-coded BSL videos in your organisation, call us on 0843 178 0773, email bookings@signsolutions.uk.com or contact us via a BSL video interpreter.
