I've been a "contract" employee for over 4 years at a large international industrial gases company. I am paid through the temp service that hired me.
My question is how can these large companies get away with using temps for years without hiring us/them??
:mad:

Wow...4 years. Due to the "Microsoft" decision, most employers would not keep someone as a temporary for more than 6 months. You probably have a claim against the company. If successful, you will be able to access their benefit programs and other compensation program typically reserved for their employees.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

there are two other women in my small group, that have been here 5 & 6 years in the same situation

My recommendation is that you contact the US Department of Labor, asking them for the process you must follow in order to rectify this situation. you may find the US Department of Labor in the telephone directly under the US government section.

Good luck and let me know if you have any other questions.