3.Freeze -drying: When freeze-drying microorganisms in vials or ampoules without cotton plugs or other bacteriological filters, the microorganisms can be carried from the container and contaminate the freeze-drying system . Microbial contamination can be found on the outside of the vial or ampoule and on parts of the freeze -drying system such as the condenser. A system should be designed to monitor the contamination level, and decontamination procedures should be implemen ted if necessary. Take care to properly treat freeze -d riedcultures prior to disposal. To autoclave freeze-dried cultures, open the vial or ampoule to allow penetration of the steam . An alternative to autoclaving is to heat the preparations in a hot air oven at 180 °C for 4 h.