Our specialist East Anglia based employment team, which has offices in Colchester and Clacton in Essex, warns that employers who fail to comply with the no smoking regulations could face a heavy fine, or at worst a criminal record.

From 1 July 2007 it became illegal to smoke in most enclosed and substantially enclosed public places and workplaces. The rules include public transport and any company cars and vans where the driver takes one or more passengers.

In hotels, care homes and prisons smoking is restricted to designated bedrooms or rooms – but it’s only the ‘guests’ who are allowed to smoke.

Richard Porter, employment law specialist advising in Clacton and Colchester, says:

“Employers face heavy penalties if they do not take reasonable steps to prevent smoking, with fines of up to £2,500. This is a steep price to pay for failing to take a few preventative measures.”

For expert advice on No Smoking and other employment law contact us in Colchester on 01206 574431 or in Clacton on 01255 221919.