Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which method helps avoid disease transmission between animals in established colonies and those in quarantine rooms?

1. Performing husbandry tasks in quarantine rooms first

2. Maintaining quarantine rooms under negative pressure

3. Keeping quarantine rooms in the same location

4. Using the same PPE in all rooms

The correct answer is: Maintaining quarantine rooms under negative pressure

Maintaining quarantine rooms under negative pressure is essential for preventing disease transmission between animals in established colonies and those in quarantine. Negative pressure means that air flows into the quarantine area from outside rather than allowing it to escape into other parts of the facility. This airflow direction helps to contain any potential pathogens within the quarantine space, minimizing the risk of airborne diseases spreading to healthy animals in the established colonies. This method is particularly important in laboratory settings, where preventing the introduction of new diseases is crucial for maintaining the health of existing animal populations. By ensuring that the air does not travel out of the quarantine room, the risk of cross-contamination is significantly reduced. This creates a safer environment for the animals being observed and any personnel working with them. In contrast, performing husbandry tasks in quarantine rooms first could risk bringing contaminants into those areas. Keeping quarantine rooms in the same location may not address air flow issues and could contribute to disease spread. Lastly, using the same personal protective equipment (PPE) in all rooms could inadvertently transfer pathogens from one area to another if proper protocols aren’t followed.