Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which component of laboratory safety equipment is used to mitigate risks associated with air contaminants?

1. Cooling system

2. Air filtration system

3. Temperature regulation apparatus

4. Protective gear

The correct answer is: Air filtration system

The air filtration system is an essential component of laboratory safety equipment designed specifically to address the risks posed by air contaminants. This system functions by removing harmful particles, gases, and biological agents from the air, thus helping to maintain a safe breathing environment for laboratory workers and minimizing exposure to potentially hazardous substances. The significance of an air filtration system is particularly evident in settings where volatile chemicals, pathogens, or particulate matter are present. By ensuring clean air circulation and filtering out toxins, it plays a critical role in health and safety protocols. In contrast, while cooling systems, temperature regulation apparatus, and protective gear are important for other aspects of lab safety, they do not directly address the mitigation of air contaminants. Cooling systems focus on maintaining appropriate temperatures, temperature regulation apparatus also manages specific thermal conditions, and protective gear is aimed at safeguarding the body from physical exposure to hazards, rather than purifying the air itself.