WORKSHOPS are being held to help companies and employees clear the air when a ban on smoking in the workplace comes into force later this year.

Under new legislation, smoking will be be banned in all enclosed public spaces from July 1.

But a survey of bosses by Horwich law firm Keoghs revealed that businesses are concerned about the cost of implementing the new legislation.

A series of workshops have been organised by Bolton Council and Bolton Primary Care Trust to offer advice and guidance to employers on what the new Government legislation will mean.

Under the new law, smoking will be banned in almost all enclosed public places in England. The ban will cover all local businesses such as factories, pubs, clubs and bars, regardless of size and number of employees.

All employers must display prominent no-smoking signs and there is no exemption allowing employers to have designated smoking rooms.

Employers failing to comply will be subject to fixed penalties or criminal proceedings. Courts will be empowered to fine employers up £2,500.

The survey of business owners carried out by Keoghs revealed that about 20 per cent of staff smoked and the majority of companies - 60 per cent - allow smoking breaks.

Nearly 40 per cent of companies surveyed said they would have additional costs of providing smoking areas outside the building and more than 70 per cent did not display any no-smoking signs.

Just over 60 per cent believed the extra signs were unnecessary, and 53 per cent did not agree with fines being levied for non-compliance.

Kevin McKenna, head of employment at Keoghs, said: "The main impact for businesses will be the additional costs of implementing the statutory requirements.

"The survey showed that a high percentage of the respondents who took part in the survey currently have no facility for smokers and are also currently not displaying the no smoking signs."

Bolton Council's Executive Member for Culture and Community Safety, Cllr Ismail Ibrahim, said: "The workshops will advise local businesses on what the regulations mean for them. We are working closely with the PCT to offer businesses support in complying with the regulations.

"Businesses need to plan ahead and these workshops will be an invaluable resource for them."