Preparing for Martyn’s Law: Strengthening Security Before Legislation Takes Effect
- Oakley Green
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 23
The recent Royal Assent of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, represents a significant step forward in enhancing public security across the UK. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, this legislation aims to improve preparedness and protection against terrorism for certain premises and events. The Act imposes specific obligations on those responsible for such venues, ensuring they take necessary steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist threats and protect the public.
For businesses and organisations, compliance with Martyn’s Law is not just a legal responsibility, it is also a moral duty to safeguard the public. In this article, we will explore how the law works, who it applies to, and how I'm Covered 365 can help ensure compliance and enhance your premises’ security.
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law requires those responsible for certain public premises and events to assess and improve their preparedness for a terrorist attack. This includes considering how they would respond in the event of an attack, reducing vulnerabilities, and implementing appropriate security measures. The Act divides premises and events into two categories based on the number of individuals expected to be present:
Standard duty premises: Venues with between 200 and 799 individuals at any given time.
Enhanced duty premises: Venues with 800 or more individuals present.
These premises must have in place adequate public protection procedures, such as evacuation plans, communication protocols, and measures to reduce the risk of harm during a terrorist incident.
For qualifying events, similar measures are required to protect attendees, including crowd management, access controls, and surveillance to ensure safety.
Who is Responsible?
The responsible person for a premises is typically the person or organisation that controls the venue. For events, the responsible person is the one who manages the venue or the area used for the event. This could be a venue owner, event organiser, or any entity with authority over the site.
The responsible person must notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA) of their premises, ensure public protection procedures are in place, and document those procedures in a comprehensive plan. For enhanced duty premises and events, additional measures, such as vulnerability assessments and surveillance protocols, are required.
The 24-Month Implementation Period
Martyn’s Law will come into force in at least 24 months, giving businesses time to understand their obligations, plan accordingly, and implement the necessary security measures. During this period, guidance and support will be provided by the SIA and the government to help premises meet the new requirements.
How I'm Covered 365 Can Help
I'm Covered 365 can help businesses and organisations implement reliable lockdown alert systems to meet compliance requirements ahead of Martyn’s Law. Our team can install cutting-edge security solutions tailored to your needs, ensuring your organisation is equipped with an effective emergency response system.
Beyond lockdown alert systems, we also offer a range of security solutions, including CCTV and access control systems, to further enhance protection. When paired with a lockdown alert system, CCTV allows for real-time monitoring of premises, helping security personnel and emergency responders assess threats more effectively. Access control systems ensure that only authorised individuals can enter certain areas, preventing unauthorised access and reducing risks.
By integrating these security measures, businesses can create a comprehensive safety strategy that not only meets regulatory requirements but also provides peace of mind for staff, visitors, and customers. Get in touch today to discuss how we can help you enhance your security and stay compliant.
The Road Ahead
Martyn’s Law represents an important step in strengthening the UK’s resilience to terrorism, ensuring that public venues and events are better prepared to handle threats. With at least 24 months to prepare, now is the time for businesses to begin implementing the required security measures. I'm Covered 365 is here to guide you through the process, offering expert security solutions to ensure your compliance and, most importantly, the safety of the public.
As the law comes into force, we will continue to support you with practical solutions, expert advice, and ongoing compliance assistance. Together, we can help protect the public and ensure that your premises are fully prepared for any situation.
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