Firefighters at the Sellafield nuclear site are to go on strike for the first time after talks over pay broke down.
The GMB union said a meeting with the management aimed at resolving a long-running row lasted just 30 minutes.
Union leaders will meet next week to decide the date of the first strike, which will be held later this month.
GMB members have voted two to one in favour of a series of 24-hour strikes in a dispute over pay grading, which has been going on for several years, during which time the GMB says firefighters have been performing roles above and beyond what they are paid to do, such as paramedic work.
Chris Jukes, GMB senior organiser, said: “The fact that it has taken several years to get to the point where firefighters will now strike confirms this is a measure of last resort.
“GMB members have been more than patient in trying to achieve the financial recognition they deserve. GMB’s strike committee at Sellafield will now meet on Tuesday to decide on the date for the first 24-hour strike which will take place later this month, the first time ever that Sellafield’s highly-trained firefighter service have gone on strike.
“GMB remains available to meet Sellafield Management with a view to a fair resolution.”