Warnings and Multilingual Audiences

Abstract

Available approaches for communicating warnings and safety information to linguistically diverse audiences have advantages and limitations, but research on this topic is limited. We conducted a semi-systematic literature search to identify peer-reviewed scientific articles addressing communication of product safety information to consumers from diverse language backgrounds. Our review highlights three communication approaches: single-language, bilingual or multilingual, and non-linguistic. Existing research regarding advantages and limitations of each approach is summarized, along with opportunities for future research.

Keywords: Warnings, Labels, Safety Information, Non-native Speakers, Language Barriers, Information Design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006812