Hi Rebeca,

The simple answer (which is often the right answer) is you have a duty of care to the employee to ensure he understands what you are saying and doing so its not possible to undertake health surveillance without a way to communicate with him. how does the company ensure his compliance with Health and Safety Standards? how does he interpret warning signs?

Most local libraries will have lists of translation services -sounds like you need a specialist but will be available and the employing company has no choice but to pay- the only other thing you could do is with informed consent get copies of GP records which may demonstrate hearing loss but again you would need a translator to ensure comprehension.

whatever the company says to you I would advise you to remember your overarching responsibility to comply with the NMC code and put the patients rights and needs at the forefront of your actions.

Good luck

Kind Regards

Lynda Bruce

Aberdeen