Pay rates for electrical contractors are set to increase after a wage deal was agreed between the trade union Unite and the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA). The agreement will see wages rise by 10% over the next four years, between 2017 and 2020, and will come into effect in January.
Agreed key changes to be implemented include the following:
- Wage increase in 2017 of 2%
- Wage increase in 2018 of 2.5%
- Wage increase in 2019 of 2.75%
- Wage increase in 2010 of 3%
- Annual leave to increase to 23 days in 2019 and 24 days in 2020
- New mileage allowance and mileage rate to replace travel allowance and travelling time (subject to HMRC approvals)
- Periodic return fares on jobs over 100 and up to 200 miles to be paid every two weeks
- Employers to pay for CompEx courses where it is a requirement of the role
The ECA’s Chief Negotiator, Paul McNaughton, said: “I’m pleased with the outcome of the negotiations – it’s all the more welcome as it provides certainty at a time of considerable uncertainty in the wider economy. Having a four year settlement gives the ECA, together with Unite, the opportunity to achieve agreement on wider long-term changes which are necessary to modernise the industry.”
Unite National Officer, Bernard McAuley, said: “Our members have voted to accept a four-year wages and conditions settlement that will deliver industrial relations stability in a very difficult economic climate.
“The electrical contracting industry is changing at a pace and now is the time for the parties to address the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring our members are at the forefront of installing the latest hi-tech equipment which is central to delivering the next generation of low carbon buildings in the UK.”
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