The UHM said today that it had reached an agreement with the MEPA management whereby workers would not return to the MEPA offices at Hexagon House, Marsa, until the building was certified to be safe. The agreement was reached in the presence of officials from the Occupational Health and Safety Authority. Hexagon House was evacuated on Monday because of the presence of gases. Some workers were given medical treatment. MEPA yesterday acknowledged leakage of hydrogen sulphide from the sewage system.

The union said the two sides had discussed the measures which need to be taken to render the building safe. A committee formed of representatives of the management and recognised unions would also be set up to follow developments.

The UHM said that while the problem needed to be solved immediately, it was calling for long-term monitoring to avoid a repetition.

The management confirmed this had not been a case of sabotage by the workers.