The global iron ore supply chain faces a test as some employees at BHP's Port Hedland go on strike today following unsuccessful labor negotiations.

Zhihu Finance APP reports that after last-minute negotiations failed to avert industrial action, employees at BHP’s (BHP.US) Port Hedland facility in Western Australia will stage the first strike at the company’s Pilbara iron ore hub since 2000. The stoppage involves around 200 operators and maintenance workers, represented by the "BHP Port Combined Union". The strike will begin at 2 p.m. local time on Thursday and will last for 8 hours. According to a statement released by the union, workers and their families will also hold a community event day during this period.