Unite union members have confirmed strike action at industrial services provider Bilfinger UK, commencing on 19 February, following a vote in favour last December. The 24-hour walkout will impact up to 19 offshore fields operated by major energy companies including BP, Ithaca Energy, Taqa, CNR International, and Ineos.

Reason for Industrial Action

The dispute centers on Bilfinger's pension scheme. Approximately 400 employees, backed by Unite, argue the scheme provides employer contributions thousands of pounds below the industry average. The union asserts the company is prioritizing profits by denying workers a fair pension, despite having the financial capacity to offer one. Members are seeking the implementation of a gross earnings pension scheme to prevent lower contributions resulting from their weekly pay schedule.

Union and Company Positions

Unite's leadership has pledged full support for the strike, framing it as an escalated fight for a fair pension settlement. In response, Bilfinger UK states it fully complies with all statutory pension obligations and has engaged constructively, recently proposing a revised offer to increase employer contributions. The company emphasizes its commitment to further dialogue with employees, union representatives, and clients, and asserts that operational safety remains its top priority, with procedures in place to minimize potential disruption from the industrial action.