Bayway refinery workers remain locked out as dispute over benefits and time off continues
Union members continue picketing outside the refinery after contract talks between Phillips 66 and Teamsters Local 877 failed to produce a new agreement during bargaining sessions held Monday and Thursday.
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Workers at the Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery in Linden remain off the job as a labor dispute enters its fifth day following a breakdown in contract negotiations.
Union members continue picketing outside the refinery after contract talks between Phillips 66 and Teamsters Local 877 failed to produce a new agreement during bargaining sessions held Monday and Thursday.
The affected workers process gasoline, diesel fuel and jet fuel and include machinists, pipefitters and other refinery employees.
Union leaders say workers are seeking improved benefits and changes to time-off policies. One key issue involves employees being required to work up to 13 consecutive days. Workers are seeking additional compensatory time when those extended schedules occur.
The refinery is currently being operated by supervisors and engineers, according to the union. Teamsters representatives have raised concerns about how the facility would respond to a potential spill, hazardous materials incident or fire without its regular workforce on site.
"These are times that we need to get back to work. And they know that they can't necessarily operate this refinery in a safe fashion," said Jeff Sanford, president of Teamsters Local 877.
Sanford said the refinery's in-house firefighters are also participating in the lockout.
"Our local in-house firemen are also outside the gate now at this point in time. Our guys know where the drums are, the pumps, they know the alleys, the equipment, they know where to go and how to respond," Sanford said.
Phillips 66 has said the refinery and Linden Terminal continue to operate fully staffed with no reduction in roles or responsibilities.
The company has not provided any new update on negotiations.
