ECA awaits decision for T5 to pioneer M&E pay deal

BAA is expected shortly to confirm that Heathrow's T5 will be the first contract to be covered by the new mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering services Major Projects Agreement.

"We made a presentation to the client on the agreement," said Alex Meikle, head of employee relations at the Electrical Contractors Association. "It was well received. We are now waiting for a decision which we expect fairly soon."

At present the vast majority of workers on the T5 site are engaged on building and civil engineering work. They are covered by a site agreement with Laing O'Rourke. There are a handful of electricians. But the big build-up of M&E labour will not start until next year.

The landmark M&E Major Projects Agreement was launched in April. It provides harmonised rates of pay and conditions for electricians, heating and ventilating operatives, and plumbers on nominated large sites. It is designed for projects worth over £100m or with a labour value of £250m.