We run large numbers of HPC samples and prepare 2 - 1L Erlenmeyer flasks of agar covered with glass beakers (one flask is used for temperature control in the water bath). The flasks are a tight fit in the autoclave and thus they are tilted upon removal from the autoclave, creating the possibility of the analyst being scalded with media and/or steam. There is also the possibility of the flasks breaking.
We are looking at different options - 1) using SimPlate HPC system from IDEXX, 2) using three smaller containers for the agar, 3) using an autoclavable basket in which to place the containers when transporting them. YC Tech