bp is disappointed that, despite bargaining in good faith over the past several months, we have been unable to reach a deal for a new labor agreement with the United Steelworkers Union.
The company has made the difficult decision to initiate a lockout as protracted negotiations have produced no progress on proposals that are most critical to the long-term sustainability of the refinery.
In addition to the status of negotiations, we have been operating in a continued state of labor uncertainty since February 1, including facing the ongoing risk of a strike with only 24-hours' notice. It is vital that we control this timeline to allow a safe and orderly transfer of operations to our qualified and highly skilled team.
During this lockout, we will have a team of trained, highly skilled and qualified bp employees operate the refinery safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements. We do not expect disruptions to our operations or production.
bp will continue to negotiate in good faith in the hope of reaching an agreement that provides good wages while giving the company flexibility to enhance safety, improve efficiency and remain competitive.