Updated Nov. 13, 2025
AFSCME (representing the Lab’s service workers and medical assistants) has announced a two-day UC-systemwide strike of their members on Nov. 17 and Nov. 18. While it is unclear if the Lab will experience strike activity, we are preparing accordingly as a precaution.
This means there will be changes at the Lab on Nov. 17 and Nov. 18. While we do not know how many employees may choose to observe the strike, the Lab is preparing for reduced services in some areas. Our number one priority is safety, so we ask that you exercise patience and be prepared for potential traffic delays and congestion.
This site will be updated as information becomes available. Bookmark it and check back often. Additional questions and answers may be found at the University of California website.
Lab staff may use the Blackberry or Grizzly Gates only for entry and exit.
Suppliers, visitors, and guests must use Blackberry Gate only for entry and exit.
Strawberry Gate is reserved for construction contractors, construction vehicles, and delivery vehicles. Berkeley Lab employees will not be permitted to enter or exit through the Strawberry Gate in a vehicle, as a pedestrian, or as a cyclist.
Lab Security will refuse entrance to those who are unable to provide a valid Berkeley Lab badge and/or valid government-issued ID at Grizzly or Blackberry gates.
Traffic delays may occur at Lab gates or on UC Berkeley property, whether or not picketing occurs, due to increased security measures and the need to comply with labor laws regarding gate access and restrictions. All Lab personnel are asked to plan for delays and make safety their number one priority.
Shuttle routes will not be impacted; however, there may be delays. Please download and use TripShot for live shuttle information as shuttles may be delayed. Read the TripShot user guide if you are unfamiliar with the app.
Carriers and suppliers that will pick up and deliver in case of a strike: FedEx, Aeronet, XPO, DS Water Services, Republic Services, GSS, Airgas, City Flavor Food Services, Clean Earth, Diesel Direct West. Carriers and suppliers that will not pick up or deliver include: UPS, TrumpCard Freight, ABF, Aramark Commercial Laundry, and YRC. Please make arrangements to change your carrier or delivery location as needed. On-site delivery of packages will not be impacted.
Custodial Service: Custodial services may be limited to basic services only. For urgent requests email CustodialServices@lbl.gov or call 510-486-5129.
Transportation Deliveries and Work Orders: Package delivery may be slower than normal, and you may be called to pick up a package. Work orders may be delayed.
Work Mode: Employees with offsite work mode agreements in place may maintain arrangements unless contingency plans require modification for any of the days of the week during which a strike occurs.
Questions: Strike-related questions should be sent to strikeinfo@lbl.gov. This account will be monitored by a team from Human Resources, Facilities, and Site Security.
Reporting concerns: If you see any safety issues or life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately. For any other incidents or concerns, contact the Lab’s Site Operations Center at 510-486-6999.
Updates: Watch for updated information in Elements, via email, at the 1-800-445-5830 status line, and on this page.