Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

During which procedure should a technician ensure the shipping container is fully inspected?

1. During animal acclimation

2. Prior to disposal

3. Before loading animals into transport

4. During health monitoring

The correct answer is: Prior to disposal

The correct answer revolves around the critical importance of ensuring a shipping container is fully inspected before it is used to dispose of any materials or animals. Conducting a thorough inspection at this stage is essential to ensure that all contents are accounted for and that the container is free of any contaminants or harmful remnants from previous occupants. This step is vital for maintaining biosecurity and preventing any potential hazards, which is crucial in laboratory settings to safeguard both animal welfare and staff health. In other contexts, such as during acclimation or health monitoring, the focus is more on the animals themselves rather than the transport containers. Similarly, while it might seem reasonable to inspect the container before loading animals, the ultimate priority lies in understanding the condition and safety of the container during disposal, as this can help mitigate risks associated with cross-contamination and disease transmission.