There are just two months left to introduce a no-smoking policy at work ahead of a new law due to take effect on July 1.
The ruling is aimed at protecting employees and the public from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
Failure to display the required signs could result in fines up to £1,000 and failing to enforce the ban could land them with a fine of up to £2,500.
The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has laid out advice for business owners and managers.
FPB senior membership representative Philip Moody said: "The legal responsibility will be placed upon the business owner to make sure that his/her workplace becomes and remains smoke free. No-smoking signs will be a legal requirement, staff, customers and other visitors must be made aware that both premises and company vehicles must be smoke free, and any indoor smoking rooms must be removed."
Moody urged business owners to take a diplomatic approach. "If a customer is smoking, then there is the possibility that you may offend him/her and lose that person’s custom. However, the consequence of inaction could be a costly fine,” he said.
“Draw the person’s attention to the no-smoking sign, point out he/she is committing a criminal offence and remind the person that it is your responsibility to stop him/her smoking. If he/she persists, you have to ask the person to leave," he added.
He also advises incorporating the smoking ban into health and safety policies. "Staff need to know that they, as well as the company, are at risk of a fine,” he said. “Employees could face a fixed penalty notice of £50 or be fined up to £200 in court. If it is on paper, as part of company policy, then it is clear that a breach of the rules will lead to disciplinary action."
The smoke-free law applies to virtually all enclosed and substantially enclosed public workplaces, and both permanent and temporary structures, such as tents or marquees.
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