Australian FIFO workers to take industrial action over rosters

Chevron's Gorgon Project of the Western Australia northwest coast is expected to be delayed further after workers overwhelmingly supported taking industrial actions over work roster concerns.

Australian mental health experts have continuously warned the Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) work lifestyle has increased mental health problems among workers, particularly in Western Australian where remote projects are located.

The Chevron's FIFO workers, employed by independent contractor Chicago Bridge and Iron, are seeking to change roster shifts from 26 days on, 9 off to 20 days on, 10 off to spend more time with their families.

Australian Manufacturing Workers Union WA state secretary Steve McCartney told Australia's national broadcaster late on Monday -- when the workers voted for the strike -- they were prepared to accept less pay to change their working arrangements.

"What the guys and ladies have been saying on the island for quite some time now is that they want one third of their time with their families and they'll give two thirds of their time to the company, they think that's fair and equitable," McCartney said.

The limited industrial action means workers may strike for 24 hours, withdraw labor for one or 24 hours, or they can refuse to do paperwork for the day.

Chevron's Gorgon 55 billion Australian dollar (39.66 billion U. S. dollar) offshore LNG project is almost 90 percent complete, though is months behind schedule.

Chicago Bridge and Iron declined to comment.

Chevron Australia did not returned Xinhua's calls.