Train drivers have threatened BHP (ASX:BHP) Group Ltd (LSE:BHP, ASX:BHP) with industrial action over annual pay increases and improved benefits.
The drivers, who are hauling ore from BHP’s Western Australia operations, have have voted for protected industrial action.
Work stoppages and a range of other work bans are on the table.
Union and BHP in final negotiations as threat of industrial action looms
Mining & Energy Union West Australian Secretary Greg Busson indicated that drivers are seeking to "embed fair and consistent conditions" in a newly negotiated enterprise agreement with BHP, a process that has been ongoing for two years.
Busson revealed that a final push for an agreeable contract will be made this week; however, if talks break down, drivers are prepared to engage in industrial action. Last week, 95% of drivers consented to such action in a protected action ballot.
The Fair Work Commission has been provided with ballot details, suggesting possible actions include work stoppages of up to 24 hours and restricting train speeds to a maximum of 30 km/h.
The proposed agreement aims to replace the existing locomotive drivers contract from 2014, affecting approximately 500 drivers who operate iron ore trains from BHP's Pilbara mines to Port Hedland.
Busson stated, "The ballot result sends a strong message to BHP that iron ore train drivers have had a gutful and are willing to take strong action for a new agreement."
Drivers are demanding assurances from BHP in several areas, such as annual pay increases, training standards, and dispute resolution.
"Drivers are calling for certainty over their conditions and not to be at the whim of an individual supervisor," Busson added.
In the arena of dispute resolution, Busson noted that drivers want access to arbitration for impartial backup.
"These drivers make an enormous contribution to the enormous profits BHP generates from iron ore," he said. "They are simply seeking a comprehensive enterprise agreement to give them certainty over important conditions."