36 171. It requires each plant to install dedusters capable of dealing with emissions from ash silos and automatic water spraying systems capable of uniform and efficient ash wetting (Article 1§1). Furthermore, where conveyor belts or similar open-air systems are used to transport ash, there should be a water spraying system to maintain a degree of humidity, thus preventing the emission of particulate matter. Appropriate measures must also be taken to cover ash transported by any open-air system (Article 1§2). In areas in which ash is stored, there must be sufficient humidity and compaction and, failing this, there should be a system for the pelletisation of ash (Article 1§§3 and 4). All chimneystacks through which emissions from lignite combustion pass must be equipped with an automated system continuously measuring particle emissions (Article 2). The DEH is required to appoint an expert in charge of the upkeep and operation of pollution control systems and, more generally, compliance with environmental standards (Article 3). It is also required to carry out checks at least once a month to measure the quantity of heavy and toxic metals in the ambient air produced by lignite use (Article 4). Monitoring of the implementation of environmental standards 172. The aforementioned Act No. 1650/1986 requires a specific mechanism to be set up to monitor the implementation of environmental law. This mechanism was established by Act No. 2947/20011, under which a special environmental inspectorate was set up under the authority of the Ministry of the Environment. The inspectorate’s duties include supervising and monitoring the implementation of the environmental standards applicable to public works, in the broadest sense, and private activities and imposing penalties where environmental laws have been broken. 173. The environmental inspectorate has particular responsibility for the application of environmental legislation and standards to mines, quarries and industrial sites. Inspections must be carried out regularly or on an ad hoc basis and whenever a specific complaint has been made. Article 4 of Presidential Decree no. 165/2003 2 created 78 posts for the inspectorate. 174. Under Article 9§5 of Act No. 2947/2001, the environmental inspectorate may propose sanctions when it finds that environmental standards have been infringed. The actual enforcement of sanctions depends on the regional authorities (prefectures) or on the Ministry of the Environment (depending on the type of offence). 1 2 Official Journal A 228 (09/10/2001). Official Journal A 137 (05/06/2003).