The packs include examples of no-smoking signs which, if not displayed, will result in fines of up to £1000. 

Businesses whose workers are caught smoking in the workplace, which is also likely to include company vehicles, could face stiff penalties of up to £2500.  Workers will face a fixed penalty fine of up to £200. 

According to employment solicitor Angela Shaw at Massers: “There will be a duty on any person who occupies or is concerned in the management of smoke-free places to ensure no one lights up.”  Massers has already put up no-smoking signs around its offices in Victoria Street and West Bridgford.

She adds:  “It is likely that the employers who get into difficulty over this will be those that are either unaware of their obligations, or do not prepare properly or communicate adequately with their employees.”

Massers is warning employers they could also face grievance procedures for the first time from non smoking workers if a smoker lights up in the workplace.

“Workers who do not comply with the smoking ban will face the consequences.  This must be done as part of the company’s health and safety, and disciplinary policies,” said Angela Shaw.

She suggests businesses need to identify outside areas where people can smoke, set up a team to help implement the no smoking policy, provide support and information for staff who want to quit smoking, and consult with staff on the new procedures before they are implemented. 

“It is vitally important that as the date for the introduction of the new legislation approaches, no-smoking policies and procedures are kept under constant review in accordance with business needs and legal requirements,” added Angela Shaw.

For more information visit www.smokefreeengland.co.uk