Facility Operations and Sanitation Flashcards

How should chemical spills be handled in an animal room?

Answer: Follow the spill response plan: evacuate animals if necessary, contain, use appropriate materials, and report

Spills require following the institutional plan: assess hazard, protect yourself, evacuate/protect animals, contain, clean, decontaminate, and document.

What is the purpose of a ventilated cage changing station?

Answer: To protect personnel from allergens and protect animals from contamination through HEPA-filtered airflow

These stations provide HEPA-filtered airflow protecting personnel from allergens while protecting animals from environmental contamination.

How often should HEPA filters in IVC racks be changed?

Answer: Per manufacturer recommendations, typically every 6-12 months, or when pressure indicates reduced airflow

HEPA filters should be changed per manufacturer specifications or when differential pressure monitoring indicates reduced airflow.

What emergency procedures should an ALAT be familiar with?

Answer: Fire, flood, power failure, HVAC failure, animal escape, chemical spill, and after-hours contacts

ALATs should be trained in all facility emergency procedures including fire, flood, power and HVAC failure, escapes, spills, and emergency contacts.

What is the proper method for disposing of sharps in an animal facility?

Answer: Place immediately into puncture-resistant labeled sharps container without recapping

Sharps must go directly into puncture-resistant containers without recapping. Never recap, bend, or break needles.

What role does pest monitoring play in maintaining a sanitary facility?

Answer: Regular monitoring through inspections, traps, and documentation identifies infestations early

Proactive monitoring using inspections, strategically placed traps, and documentation enables early detection before infestations develop.