Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which equipment is specifically used for burning materials such as animal tissue?

1. Incubator

2. Incinerator

3. Autoclave

4. Fume hood

The correct answer is: Incinerator

The incinerator is specifically designed for the combustion of waste materials, including animal tissue. This equipment operates at high temperatures, effectively reducing potentially hazardous organic material to ash, gases, and other byproducts. It is crucial in laboratory and veterinary settings for the safe and efficient disposal of biological waste, ensuring that any pathogens and contaminants present in animal tissues are thoroughly destroyed. In contrast, an incubator is intended for maintaining a controlled environment for the growth of microorganisms or cell cultures but does not facilitate combustion. An autoclave is used primarily for sterilizing equipment and materials through high-pressure steam, which does not involve burning. A fume hood is designed to safely vent hazardous fumes, vapors, or dust away from the workspace but is not equipped for disposal methods involving burning materials. Therefore, the incinerator stands out as the specialized equipment for this particular purpose.