Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What role do HEPA filters play in a laboratory animal care setting?

1. They trap large debris to maintain cleanliness

2. They filter out harmful bacteria and allergens

3. They control humidity levels

4. They provide fresh air to the environment

The correct answer is: They filter out harmful bacteria and allergens

HEPA filters, or High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters, are crucial in maintaining a clean and safe environment within a laboratory animal care setting. These filters are designed to trap very small particles, including harmful bacteria and allergens, which is essential in protecting both the animals and the personnel working in the lab. The efficiency of HEPA filters is such that they can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, which encompasses many common pathogens and allergens, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of contamination and disease transmission. In addition to their role in trapping harmful particles, HEPA filters contribute to maintaining the overall health and well-being of laboratory animals by ensuring that the air quality is free from potential irritants. This is especially important in facilities where immune-compromised animals or sensitive species are housed, as they may be more susceptible to infections or adverse reactions from allergens. While keeping the environment clean is essential, and controlling humidity and providing fresh air are also important aspects of laboratory management, these functions are not the primary roles of HEPA filters. Instead, their primary focus is on filtering out harmful biological contaminants, making them an essential component in laboratory animal care when striving for optimal animal welfare and experimental integrity.