It also found only 6% of employers would re-tender if they discovered their suppliers were not compliant.
The Ernst & Young study polled procurement managers and directors from a wide range of firms across the UK.
It found that while midmarket firms are often less likely to have robust processes and systems in place to counter bribery risk, companies at both ends of the spectrum appeared complacent when it came to vetting their suppliers for compliance with the Act.
It also showed even though 60% of firms with a turnover of £5 million to £50 million currently vet their suppliers to assess whether their business practices comply with UK Bribery Act, 16% of these midmarket firms would do nothing if their suppliers fail to comply.
In addition the study found among those firms that do not currently vet their suppliers, 60% reported that they are not planning to implement any anti-bribery programmes in the future.
The study also revealed only 40% of larger firms (those with a turnover of more than £50 million) would remove suppliers from their supply chain if they fail to comply with the Act.
John Smart, partner at Ernst & Young said: "Following recent concerns over food contamination, there has been much focus on supply chains and how much companies know about suppliers and agents acting on their behalf.
"In cases where bribery and corruption are discovered, the consequences for companies under the law may be serious. It's worrying to see that businesses are failing to make sure that their suppliers are complying with the UK Bribery Act, especially as the Act came into effect over a year and a half ago.
"Many directors are still unaware that they can be held personally accountable for any failings in this area. This means that senior managers and directors risk significant prison terms and large fines for non-compliance in which they are personally involved, even if the breach is caused by the actions of a third-party supplier."
Smart added: "Anyone who thinks that the issue of third-party compliance can simply be glossed over is making a grave mistake, as failures in this area can lead to significant fines and penalties for all involved."
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