SIEMENS’ traffic systems business in Poole has won an award for the way it rolled out rapid testing to protect staff and their families during the pandemic.

Yunex Traffic, the new name for Siemens Mobility’s Intelligent Traffic Systems arm, was praised for the “unbelievable” speed with which it arranged the tests.

It won the regional Health and Safety prize at the Make UK Manufacturing Awards and will go on to the national finals.

The award recognised the Sopers Lane business’s efforts in rolling out a Covid-19 rapid testing programme, offering staff regular testing and rapid results.

The judges said: “The speed in which they rolled out the additional safety measures was unbelievable. Through clear leadership and the willingness of employees, the company has managed to limit the spread of the pandemic across the workforce ensuring staff and their families have peace of mind when coming in to work.”

Judges were impressed that the system had produced only one false positive result.

Siemens’ Poole operation produces the technology used for traffic lights, real- time information signs and congestion charging schemes.

Wilke Reints, managing director for Yunex Traffic in the UK, said: “Helping to keep our employees and their families safe throughout Covid-19 has been our highest priority and I’m really proud of our on-site testing programme.

“Our business plays a key role in keeping our roads moving safely and we’ve continued to support critical transport projects throughout the pandemic.

“It’s been inspiring to see the entire team adapt to new safety measures to protect one another during a really challenging time and I’m delighted that we’ve been recognised by Make UK for our efforts.”

Monica Macheng, of sponsor Bevan Brittan, said: “We’re thrilled to be a supporter of Make UK and the regional awards, celebrating excellence in manufacturing across the UK.

“After a challenging 18 months it’s the perfect time to come together and celebrate our collective achievements.”

Jim Davison, region director for Make UK in the south, said: “These awards are a testament to the fantastic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing. The sector remains crucial for creating wealth in the South and as we re-build our economy, steps should follow the example set out by Siemens Healthcare.”