What is M&E? What it Stands for and Definition

What is M&E and What Does it Stand For

M&E stands for “mechanical and electrical services.” It simply refers to all mechanical and electrical systems that a facilities management company installs and maintains on company premises.

The term M&E refers both to the installation process itself, as well as certification, servicing, and maintenance requirements.

What is M&E Work?

Following on from this, M&E work is any activity that involves installing/maintaining/servicing electrical and mechanical systems on commercial premises. The term “work” or “works” usually refers to the activity of a facilities management company –  an agency charged with ensuring continued value delivery from plant and equipment on your site.

The scope of M&E work is substantial, owing to the large number of tasks that fall into the category. M&E installation and project management teams are often involved in every stage of the process from planning to installation to testing. Their job is to ensure that systems are safe and effective.

M&E systems should only be installed by qualified professionals with a history in M&E and a strong portfolio to their name.

Mechanical & Electrical Systems

Mechanical systems are different from electrical systems – although they may contain electrical components or rely on electricity for their operation. A mechanical system is any system where the physical output of the system is the primary output. So, for instance, plumbing, elevators, escalators, and heating equipment all primarily produce a physical output (not a digital one).

Examples of mechanical systems include:

• Plumbing
• Escalators
• Elevators
• Heating and air conditioning systems
• Plant and machinery
• Infrastructure
• Tools and equipment

By contrast, electrical systems are used primarily for their digital outputs. While some systems might have some secondary physical functions, (such as internal fans), their main value comes from their electrical services.

Examples of electrical systems include:

• Power supply and distribution units
• Control systems
• Electrical equipment
• Lighting systems
• Structured cabling systems
• Telecommunications equipment

M&E Maintenance and Installation

Mechanical and electrical systems depreciate over time. Eventually, they lose their functionality and wear out.

When that happens, it is vital to get proper maintenance. Servicing and repair work can help keep the depreciation of your assets at bay and keep them operational for longer. It can reduce instances of downtime and lost productivity. When your equipment works flawlessly, your business runs more smoothly.

Getting professionals to install your mechanical and electrical systems is critical. Only accredited engineers should work on these systems because only they have the necessary training to carry out work safely and effectively.

Here are some of the kinds of M&E installations you’ll need to consider:

• Heating systems
• Air conditioning systems
• Ventilation
• Machinery and equipment installations
• Electrical control systems
• Phone systems and ports
• Power supply and distribution