WITH the start of Wimbledon and the onset of Murray-mania in the workplace, we’d like to remind businesses that if staff are watching the tennis at their desks, the company needs to be appropriately licensed.

Audience statistics show that 6.8m people watched matches live online last year during the tournament, while 7.1m watched Murray’s 2010 semi-final during the middle of the working day.

Some employers might assume if they don’t have a TV in the building, they don’t need to worry.

But the rise of online streaming of live TV programmes means many more businesses need to be covered by a TV licence nowadays.

If an employee is caught watching TV illegally, the business may be held liable and fined up to £1,000.

Employers should make sure they are aware of the licensing requirements, rather than risk a court case and hefty fine.

A TV licence is legally required on work premises if anyone – whether staff or customers – watches programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV, whether on a computer, TV or any other type of equipment.

One TV licence will cover a whole office, allowing staff to tune in to matches either on office screens or via their own PCs.

A licence costs £145.50 and can be bought in minutes.

Tim Downs, TV Licensing.