Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What hazard may arise when assisting the PI with obtaining x-rays of mice?

1. Contamination

2. Radiation exposure

3. Electrical shock

4. Thermal burns

The correct answer is: Radiation exposure

When assisting the Principal Investigator (PI) with obtaining x-rays of mice, radiation exposure is a significant hazard. X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation that can be harmful to living tissues. In laboratory settings where x-rays are used, it is crucial to follow established safety protocols to minimize exposure to both the animals being examined and the personnel involved in the procedure. This includes using protective equipment, such as lead aprons and shields, to reduce the risk of radiation-related health issues. While other hazards like contamination, electrical shock, and thermal burns could potentially be present in a laboratory environment, they are not specifically associated with the process of obtaining x-rays. Contamination might occur in different contexts, while electrical shock could be related to equipment malfunction, and thermal burns typically would arise from handling hot equipment or substances, not radiation procedures. Therefore, radiation exposure is the primary concern when performing x-ray imaging on subjects in a lab setting.