Around 2000 Nehawu health laboratory workers are expected to embark on a countrywide strike on Monday, the union said.
The strikers include lab analysts and support staff, National Education, Health & Allied Workers Union spokesman Sizwe Pamla said in a statement on Sunday.
Other unions were considering joining the strike, he said.
A notice of intention to strike was served on the National Health Laboratory Services on Thursday.
Nehawu has asked for a 9.5 percent wage increase, two percent performance incentive, and a medical aid benefit of R2,300 a month, to be implemented from May 1 this year.
“Our members have rejected the current employer's offer (6.5 percent) because it does not take into consideration the economic realities,” said Pamla.
He said the strike may delay specimen tests and affect critical and lifesaving operations. - Sapa