WORKERS at Fawley refinery are being balloted on strike action.

The GMB union says contractors at the huge ExxonMobil site are refusing to pay an incentive bonus arrangement (IBA) to employees.

The result of the ballot will be known in the next few days, with any strike action likely to take place over the coming weeks.

GMB regional organiser Bryan Hulley: "Our members maintain important and integral process units that keep the refinery running.

“The IBA supplement is due, so the employers’ refusal to implement this standard payment is particularly ill-advised in these uncertain times.

READ MORE: Fawley refinery security staff handed 31 per cent pay rise

“During any action strikers will be exercising their right to engage with anyone presenting themselves at the refinery gates to discuss the details of the dispute and to ask work colleagues not to cross the picket lines."

Mr Hulley warned that the Fawley area would see "significant traffic congestion and disruption" if the strikes went ahead.

“The next steps are that we will now issue the company with the required legal notice for strike action and actions short of strike action," he said.

READ MORE: Industrial action at Fawley refinery ends with nine per cent pay offer

“We would suggest it is a period of time in which ExxonMobil might choose to speak to their contractors and bring GMB back to the table with a renewed offer which our members agree resolves the matter amicably, thus avoiding any walk-out before it happens.

“The olive branch is there, it is now up to the employers if they wish to take it.”

An ExxonMoibil spokesperson said; "This matter relates to staff employed by contracting companies onsite.

"We would encourage all parties to continue to engage in dialogue and to work together to reach a resolution."

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