Unionized workers at LifeLabs — which has seven clinics across Richmond — have issued 72-hour strike notice.
They are represented by the B.C. General Employees’ Union (BCGEU), which represents 1,550 LifeLabs workers in the province.
The union says there are outstanding issues after “several months of negotiations, 30 days at the bargaining table, and eight days of mediation.”
And, according to the BCGEU, “fair and reasonable wage increases remain an outstanding issue.”
LifeLabs provides a wide range of medical testing services, including COVID-19 testing.
The union claims proposals from LifeLabs earlier this year “sought to take away sick benefits and vacation days” — an issue which has since been resolved.
The earliest job action could begin is Friday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m.
However, the BCGEU added that agreements will ensure some LifeLabs locations will stay open should a strike take place.
Earlier this year, 98 per cent of union members voted in favour of strike action and have been working without a contract since April 1.
