Recommendations in a European Commission discussion paper could see the smoking ban extended to areas such as doorways of pubs, partially enclosed restaurant patios, bus stops and other enclosed or partially enclosed public spaces.
The recommendations are included in a Green Paper which is to be considered by the commission in the coming weeks.
According to Michael Mann, a spokesman for the European Commissioner for Health, the smoking ban and other recommendations will be discussed but not necessarily acted upon.
"The recommendation does say that the best or most comprehensive approach would consist of a total ban in all enclosed working areas," he said. Further action on the ban, however, would be the responsibility of individual governments.
Ireland's 2004 workplace smoking ban has influenced the creation of similar laws in other countries. A UK-wide workplace smoking ban begins on July 1st.
Meanwhile, some Irish anti-smoking advocates have said they would support any proposal to further curb the potential for second-hand smoke.
Norma Cronin of the Irish Cancer Society's tobacco control unit said: "We have made a lot of progress in relation to the smoking ban, but going forward the protection of all people is what's important. We would agree with the proposal as it would help get across the message of the damages associated with second-hand smoke."
Ms Cronin said the health risks of second-hand smoke extended to non-smokers even in outdoor settings.
"If you're sitting next to somebody who is smoking, you're still exposed," she said.