An animal transfer station (ATS) is a specialized piece of laboratory equipment that is used to safely transfer animals between cages or rooms. ATSs are typically made of stainless steel or other durable materials, and they have a number of features that help to protect both the animals and the researchers from exposure to allergens, pathogens, and other contaminants.

ATSs typically have two chambers, one for the animal’s incoming cage and one for the animal’s outgoing cage. The chambers are separated by a barrier, which can be a solid wall or a HEPA-filtered air curtain. The animals are transferred between the chambers through a small opening in the barrier.

ATSs also have a number of other features that help to improve safety and efficiency, such as:

Air filtration systems: ATSs are typically equipped with HEPA filtration systems to remove allergens, pathogens, and other contaminants from the air.
Interlocking doors: The doors of the ATS chambers are typically interlocked, so that only one door can be open at a time. This helps to prevent the animals from escaping and to reduce the risk of cross-contamination between the chambers.
Lighting systems: ATSs are typically equipped with lighting systems to provide good visibility for the researchers.
Work surfaces: ATSs typically have work surfaces where the researchers can place the animal cages and other equipment.
ATSs are an essential tool for any laboratory that works with animals. They help to protect both the animals and the researchers from exposure to contaminants, and they improve the safety and efficiency of animal handling procedures.

Here are some of the benefits of using an ATS:

Reduces exposure to allergens and pathogens: ATSs help to protect the researchers from exposure to allergens and pathogens that can be present in animal dander and bedding.
Improves the safety and efficiency of animal handling procedures: ATSs provide a safe and controlled environment for transferring animals between cages or rooms.
Reduces the risk of cross-contamination: ATSs help to reduce the risk of cross-contamination between different animal groups.
Improves animal welfare: ATSs can help to improve animal welfare by reducing the stress and discomfort associated with animal handling procedures.
Overall, ATSs are a valuable tool for any laboratory that works with animals. They offer a number of benefits, including reducing exposure to allergens and pathogens, improving the safety and efficiency of animal handling procedures, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, and improving animal welfare.