Mars Petcare facility in Fort Smith earns safety award

Mars Petcare has achieved a significant milestone in workplace safety.

The company recently announced its Fort Smith manufacturing facility at Chaffee Crossing has surpassed the two million man-hour mark for going over five years without a lost day away from work due to a work-related injury or illness.

“We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to safety, and this award truly speaks to the efforts that all of our Associates make to put safety into action every single day,” said Russ Hayes, Mars Petcare Fort Smith Site Director. “Creating a safe work environment is paramount to our values, and our growing team will remain steadfast in maintaining a laser-focus on the safety of our Associates and our site.”

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson released an official statement congratulating the facility on its accomplishment, claiming Mars has set “a safety standard that is a great example to companies throughout the state.

“The fact this facility has operated for five years without one lost day from a work-related illness or injury is a testament to the importance the company places on their employees’ well-being,” Hutchinson said.

“Mars Petcare has been a strong corporate citizen and member of the Fort Smith community for years,” added Fort Smith Mayor Sanders. “The company has made a strong impact on our local economy, and we’re glad to celebrate this significant achievement of their many Associates and our residents.”

The achievement comes on the heels of a December announcement that Mars Petcare would be investing up to $110 million in the Fort Smith location and creating 130 new jobs over the next few years. Since 2012, the company has invested more than $1 billion in U.S. factories and operations and created more than 1,000 jobs nationally.