Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the appropriate response if a pregnant employee is exposed to potential risks from working with certain animals?

1. Reassess their job responsibilities

2. Provide additional training

3. Ensure they do not work with affected animals

4. Allow them to choose their work

The correct answer is: Ensure they do not work with affected animals

When a pregnant employee is exposed to potential risks from working with certain animals, ensuring they do not work with the affected animals is the most appropriate response. This measure is vital for protecting both the health of the employee and the developing fetus. There are various zoonotic diseases and other health-related risks associated with animal exposure that can pose significant threats during pregnancy. While reassessing job responsibilities may seem prudent, it may not specifically address the immediate risks related to the exposure, making it less effective in ensuring safety. Additional training could provide useful information but would not eliminate the risks associated with direct exposure to the animals in question. Allowing the employee to choose their work may not be safe, as they might not be fully aware of the potential hazards involved, and their choice could still expose them and their unborn child to risk. By ensuring that the pregnant employee does not work with these specific animals, the workplace can proactively minimize the possibility of adverse outcomes, fostering a safer environment for all.