ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Facility Environment and Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

A research facility is designing a room to house immunocompromised animals. To prevent contaminants from entering the room and protecting the animals, what type of air pressure should the room have relative to the adjacent corridor?

Accepted Answer

Positive pressure

Answer

Positive pressure rooms have a higher air pressure than the surrounding areas. This causes air to flow out of the room when a door is opened, preventing airborne contaminants from entering and protecting the vulnerable animals inside.

Question 2

Which of the following BEST describes the 'microenvironment' in a laboratory animal facility?

Accepted Answer

The physical environment within the primary enclosure, such as the cage or pen.

Answer

The microenvironment refers to the immediate physical environment within the animal's primary enclosure (the cage, pen, or stall). This is distinct from the macroenvironment, which is the environment of the secondary enclosure, like the room itself.

Question 3

A technician is cleaning a rodent cage that has just been vacated. The first step involves removing all bedding, feed, and organic debris. What is this initial process called?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning

Answer

Cleaning is the essential first step in the sanitation process and involves the physical removal of organic material like feces, urine, and bedding. Disinfection, the process of killing pathogens, is performed after the surface has been thoroughly cleaned.

Question 4

The 'Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals' recommends a ventilation rate for secondary enclosures (animal rooms) of how many fresh air changes per hour?

Accepted Answer

10-15

Answer

The 'Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals' has historically considered 10-15 air changes per hour (ACH) as an acceptable general standard for animal rooms to maintain air quality and control temperature and humidity.

Question 5

An animal technician notices a wild mouse in the facility's feed storage room. According to a proper integrated pest management (IPM) program, what should be the technician's FIRST action?

Accepted Answer

Report the sighting to their supervisor or the designated pest control contact.

Answer

In an integrated pest management (IPM) program, it is crucial to report any pest sightings to a supervisor. This allows for proper documentation, investigation of entry points, and implementation of a strategic and approved control plan, rather than taking uncoordinated action.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Facility Environment and Management Questions and Answers