Government body VicRoads is updating its road maintenance fleet with radar-based reverse braking technology to reduce employee injuries.

After a successful six month trial Reverse Smart will be rolled-out across the fleet.

Authorities hope it will save lives, with 18 workers killed in incidents involving reversing trucks in the workplace from 2003 to 2012.

The technology senses when an object is behind the vehicle and, if it is in reverse, automatically hits the airbrakes.

VicRoads chief executive John Merritt says save reversing technology is standard in new vehicles in Europe, Japan and the US.

“Safety in the workplace is of the upmost importance and this technology will significantly improve safe working conditions for VicRoads employees,” Merritt said.

“The safety of our people and members of the public is paramount and the autonomous braking system will make a difference.”

The road authority says it will share the data from the trial with transport groups and fleet operators.

“We believe this technology will significantly reduce worksite risks and we hope it will become standard across the industry,” Merritt said.

“Our dedication to workplace safety never ends and VicRoads will continue to consider any new technology which may save lives.”