BP to lock out workers at Whiting refinery starting Thursday

WHITING, Ind. (WLS) — BP will lock out workers at its Whiting refinery amid ongoing contract negotiations starting Thursday.

The company said talks with the United Steelworkers Union have stalled despite months of bargaining.

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BP said it made the move over concerns about a possible strike and will continue operating the refinery with trained staff. The union said the company is demanding cutting jobs and pay cuts.

The company said it hopes to reach a deal while keeping operations running safely.

The president of the union, issuing this statement saying, “We presented British Petroleum with an offer today that included accepting several of their proposals – only for them to reject that after just four hours and serve us with a lockout notice.

“They continue to demand that we cut more than 100 jobs, accept pay cuts to nearly all positions and give up our bargaining rights. That’s just unacceptable.

“We are prepared to keep fighting for a fair agreement that protects local jobs, protects wages and protects the rights of our members.”