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

An Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program emphasizes prevention as the primary strategy. This includes proper building maintenance to seal entry points, good sanitation practices to eliminate food and water sources, and removing clutter to reduce places where pests can hide (harborage). Chemical pesticides are used only as a last resort when other methods are unsuccessful.

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

Animal carcasses, especially those containing biohazardous agents, must be disposed of in a way that destroys the infectious material. Incineration is the standard and most effective method for achieving this and ensuring the waste is rendered safe. Other methods like landfilling or burial do not guarantee the destruction of hazardous agents.

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

Many species, particularly nocturnal rodents, cannot see red light well. Using a red light allows staff to see while causing minimal disruption to the animals' circadian rhythms and behavior. Turning on the main lights, even for a short time, can cause significant stress and disrupt physiological processes.

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

Tunnel washers are designed for high-throughput, continuous processing. Soiled items are loaded onto a conveyor belt that moves them through pre-wash, wash, rinse, and final rinse/drying chambers. Rack washers are for larger items like racks and bulk carts, and cabinet washers are smaller, batch-style units.

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

For larger animals, such as dogs, the 'Guide' standards recommend that soiled bedding and excreta should be removed daily. The primary enclosures should also be cleaned and sanitized daily to maintain a healthy environment.

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT - Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Practice Test

ALAT Facility Operations and Sanitation Questions and Answers