SAFETY technicians at a hazardous chemicals plant in Teesside have voted to strike against proposed cuts which they say raise fears of a toxic gas leak.

Huntsman Polyurethanes at Redcar is part of the Huntsman Corporation based in Texas in the US. It operates in 25 countries and employs 11,000 workers.

Almost 50 production process technicians (PPT) at the Teesside site oversee the plant’s safe operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The company wants to reduce their numbers by natural wastage — not replacing workers who leave — but their union Unite says the cuts will threaten public safety.

No date has been set for strike action.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members are seriously concerned about public safety should Huntsman go ahead with its plans. 

“These are highly skilled and specialised workers who are worried enough to strike. 

“They have Unite’s total support — Huntsman Polyurethanes will not be allowed to ignore their concerns.”

A spokesperson from Huntsman Polyurethanes said: “Huntsman Polyurethanes UK remains committed to an open dialogue with the shift team members and union representatives with a goal of ensuring the safety of the workforce and the long-term competitiveness of the Wilton site.”