Construction workers strike at Sellafield nuclear site

Aerial view of Sellafield, Cumbria, England (Image: Simon Ledingham via Wikimedia Commons)

The Unite union, which claims to represent over 1,500 construction workers at the plant said its members were striking over the refusal to increase Sellafield-specific allowances.

Strikes began on Monday 15 September and run until Thursday 19 September.

The action involves joiners, pipe-fitters, riggers, welders and groundworkers. Unite said the action has resulted in “severe disruption” to work on the site.

It claimed that Sellafield employers have “refused” to match premiums that are being offered to workers on the construction of the Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant in Somerset.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “The employers at Sellafield need to start playing fair by our members, who are all highly skilled workers operating in an extremely challenging environment.”

Unite said it was committed to resolving the dispute but that further strikes are likely if the employer refuses to engage in meaningful and productive talks.

Sellafield Ltd said it did not directly employ the workers involved but that it would prioritise safety and security during the strike action.