THOUSANDS of East Lancashire businesses could be fined for not preparing for the smoking ban.

From July 1 nearly all enclosed public spaces including offices, factories, pubs, bars, and even company cars, will have to become smoke-free.

But a local expert has revealed firms need to prepare for the ban, or face large fines for simply not displaying the correct "no smoking" signs.

And Blackburn with Darwen Council has launched a drive to tell businesses of the rules.

Chris Boyle, employment lawyer at Napthens solicitors, which has offices in Blackburn and Longridge, said: "There's a great deal of uncertainty for many employers as to how the ban will work - but the main point is to have a clear and concise policy in place that deals with employees who wish to smoke and where they can light up.

"What employers will need to make sure of is that they consult employees on how smoking in the workplace will be handled and have arrangements that suit non-smokers and smokers.

"The biggest concern is that if you haven't got a comprehensive policy or do not comply with the law then you could face a £2,500 fine."

Under the new law, bosses will be required to display no smoking signs; to take "reasonable steps" to ensure, staff and visitors are aware premises are smokefree and ensure that nobody smokes in premises or vehicles.

Naomi Holt, a licensing expert at Napthens, says the hospitality sector is most likely to suffer from the ban.

Thwaites Brewery, Black-burn, has been working to make sure its 420 pubs are smoke free from July.

Retail director Paul Howarth said: "We're encouraging our pubs to get customers on board as soon as possible. Some pubs have already started to restrict smoking in certain areas ."

Coun Dave Hollings, Black-burn's executive member for consumer rights, said: "This is a major change for businesses and if they have not already made their plans, they must do so now."

Valerie Miles, of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said it was working with the Smokefree Implementing Group to advise local firms on the law.

l Napthens will be holding a free seminar at 8pm on April 23 at The Fernhurst Hotel, Blackburn.