ALAT Facility Operations and Sanitation Questions and Answers

Question 1

An animal facility has implemented an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Which of the following actions is the primary and initial focus of an effective IPM program?

Accepted Answer

Utilizing facility maintenance and sanitation to prevent pest access and harborage.

Answer

Routine application of chemical pesticides in all animal rooms.

Answer

Setting lethal traps as the first line of defense against rodents.

Answer

Immediate deployment of biological controls, such as predatory insects.

Question 2

A technician is tasked with disposing of animal carcasses that contain a biohazardous agent. According to general biosafety guidelines, what is the most appropriate final disposal method for this type of waste?

Accepted Answer

Incineration.

Answer

Placing them in a standard landfill after bagging.

Answer

Burying them on facility grounds.

Answer

Disposing of them via the sanitary sewer system.

Question 3

A research protocol requires a reversed light cycle (lights off during the day) for a room of nocturnal rodents. An ALAT needs to enter the room to perform health checks during the dark cycle. Which of the following is the BEST practice to minimize disruption to the animals?

Accepted Answer

Use a flashlight with a red bulb or filter.

Answer

Turn on the main room lights for the shortest time possible.

Answer

Prop the door open to let light in from the hallway.

Answer

Announce their presence loudly before entering the room.

Question 4

Which type of cage washer is designed like a conveyor belt system to process large quantities of smaller equipment like rodent cages, wire-bar lids, and bottles continuously?

Accepted Answer

Tunnel washer

Answer

Cabinet washer

Answer

Rack washer

Answer

Pressure washer

Question 5

An ALAT is responsible for sanitation in a room housing dogs. According to the 'Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals', how often should primary enclosures for larger animals like dogs typically be cleaned and have waste removed?

Accepted Answer

Daily

Answer

Weekly

Answer

Twice a week

Answer

Monthly

Question 6

When preparing a chemical disinfectant solution for sanitizing animal procedure surfaces, which of the following factors is most critical for ensuring its effectiveness?

Accepted Answer

The correct dilution and required contact time.

Answer

The color of the storage bottle.

Answer

The ambient room temperature.

Answer

The brand name of the disinfectant.