Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What equipment is typically used on a loading dock to decontaminate items like feed and bedding?

1. Autoclave

2. Incinerator

3. Mister

4. Pressure washer

The correct answer is: Mister

The use of a mister on a loading dock to decontaminate items such as feed and bedding is appropriate due to its ability to effectively distribute disinfectant solutions over a wide area. This method allows for thorough coverage of surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminants. The fine mist can penetrate crevices and ensure that all areas receive adequate exposure to the decontaminating agent. In contrast, other equipment like an autoclave is designed for sterilizing instruments and materials under high pressure and temperature, which is not usually feasible or practical for large bulk items like feed and bedding on a loading dock. An incinerator is primarily used for disposal of biohazardous waste, not for decontaminating items meant for use in animal care. A pressure washer, while effective for cleaning, may not be ideal for distributing disinfectants uniformly and can create a risk of splashing contaminated water. Therefore, the mister presents the most suitable option for decontamination in the context of handling and preparing items for use in a laboratory animal facility.