Around 1,000 IBEW Local 29 workers started striking at midnight after talks with Duquesne Light failed to produce a new agreement.
The union says the workers want a contract that addresses safety and operational concerns, including more staffing. I
In a statement Duquesne Light said it was disappointed no agreement was reached “despite presenting what" the utility believes "is an industry-leading offer.”
Duquesne Light is also responding to union allegations about safety and operational issues.
Will non-union workers hired to fill in during the strike be enough?
KDKA's Marty Griffin asked Duquesne Light VP of Communications Christine Waller if the company has hired 80 contractors.
Waller said she didn't have the exact numbers.
“Part of our contingency plan, make sure that we’re performing essential work that’s required so, we’re staffed appropriately to do that,” said Waller.
Waller addressed concerns about severe weather and possible power outages by saying Duquesne Light is monitoring forecasts and does not see anything extreme coming through.
