Over 30 drivers and fillers at the Airgas facility in Ferndale, Michigan, have unanimously voted to authorize a strike. Represented by Teamsters Local 283, the workers are demanding a fair agreement that aligns with the standards secured by other Airgas Teamsters nationwide.

The decision to authorize a strike, announced on Friday, May 9, underscores the growing frustration among the Ferndale employees over what they perceive as Airgas's unwillingness to negotiate in good faith. According to Teamsters Local 283, the company has repeatedly put forward proposals that fall short of industry norms, prompting the unanimous vote in favor of potential job action.

Steve Hicks, President of Local 283, expressed the union's determination in a statement. "The company's repeated attempts to push a substandard contract are unacceptable," Hicks asserted. "We're not afraid to do whatever it takes to hold this greedy corporation accountable. If Airgas keeps dragging its feet, they'll be putting themselves on strike."

Airgas, a subsidiary of the French multinational Air Liquide, holds the position of the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical, and specialty gases. Its vast portfolio consists of gasses like acetylene, argon, ethane, helium, hydrogen and propane among others. Despite its significant financial success, reporting nearly $30 billion in revenue in the past year, the company is facing criticism for its stance in the contract negotiations with the Ferndale workers. The union argues that Airgas's refusal to offer a contract that meets industry standards is particularly egregious given its substantial profits.

Matthew Manor, a veteran 28-year Teamster and driver at the Ferndale Airgas location, highlighted the workers' primary concern. "We're not complaining about the work, we just want to be paid fairly for it," Manor stated. He emphasized the reluctance to strike but underscored the workers' resolve. "Nobody wants to strike, but if the company fails to offer what we deserve, we'll have no choice but to act."

The unanimous strike authorization vote grants the leadership of Teamsters Local 283 the authority to call a strike if a satisfactory agreement cannot be reached with Airgas. This development introduces the potential for significant disruptions to the supply chain of industrial, medical, and specialty gases in the region, given Airgas's prominent role in the market.

Teamsters Local 283 represents over 800 workers across various industries in the Detroit metropolitan area, demonstrating a history of advocating for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members.