Abstract: Handling of catalytic reduction catalyst elements used for denitration can be facilitated. The catalyst elements are changed in a basket comprising a hollow body which is made of steel so as to permit the passage therethrough of exhast gases from one end to the other end thereof, a catalyst element supporting member which is disposed at the bottom of said hollow body, upon which are placed the catalyst elements and which is adapted to permit the passage of exhaust gases therethrough, and ceramic shock absorbers interposed between the inner surfaces of the hollow body, and the catalyst elements charged therein. The catalyst elements charged in each basket can be handled as a unit and placed upon shelves disposed in an exhaust gas passage.