Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a typical duty assigned to ALATs?

1. Cage cleaning

2. Research Protocol Development

3. Animal Surgery Assistance

4. Veterinary Consultation

The correct answer is: Cage cleaning

Cage cleaning is indeed a typical duty assigned to Animal Laboratory Technicians (ALATs). This task is fundamental to maintaining a clean and safe environment for the animals in research facilities. Regular cleaning helps prevent disease transmission, ensures animal welfare, and maintains the integrity of experiment conditions. ALATs often engage in routine cleaning duties, which may include changing bedding, sanitizing cages, and ensuring that the living areas adhere to health and safety standards. The other duties, such as research protocol development, animal surgery assistance, and veterinary consultation, are generally undertaken by more advanced roles, such as Laboratory Animal Technologists or veterinarians, who possess additional training and experience. While ALATs may support these activities in various ways, their primary responsibilities focus more on the care and maintenance of laboratory animals, rather than creating research protocols or performing surgeries.