Representatives of the local union said 24-hour strike was the result of failed negotiations with plant management. The union wants to head off the transfer of some 150 jobs to a plant in Texas, reports said.

Union leaders reportedly indicated members would refuse to work overtime as well.

In a BBC report, union officer Grace Mitchell said, "The way that staff have been treated is extremely disappointing after all these years of loyal service. Staff are not prepared to sit back and allow the company to cut these vital manufacturing jobs."

The site reportedly employs 700 workers. It is unclear how many are union members.