Following a six-month lockout of 1,250 National Grid gas workers and support staff, two United Steelworkers unions have ratified a tentative agreement reached on Jan. 2 that will lead to a full return to work during the week of Jan. 20. Under the 5½-year agreement, new hires will not have pensions, but will receive a retirement plan that includes a company contribution of 3% to 9%, plus a 401(k) plan. Current workers will keep their health insurance plans for two years before costs rise in 2021. Salaries will increase 18% compounded over the life of the contract and up to 40 new jobs will be created, including new safety oversight positions.