The new law comes into effect following the passing of the Protection of Workers (Scotland) Bill.
A new offence has been created for situations where a retail worker is assaulted, threatened or abused while engaged in their work.
Committing this offence while a retail worker is enforcing a statutory age restriction also constitutes an aggravation.
The offence can result in a fine, with penalties escalating to a prison sentence, with the aggravation adding the potential for more significant fine/sentence.