What is Martyn's Law and What Will It Mean for Businesses?
Security and public safety responsibilities for businesses across the UK are changing. With the introduction of Martyn's Law, organisations operating publicly accessible premises will soon be expected to take a more proactive approach to protecting staff, customers, and visitors from the threat of terrorism.
Named after Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life during the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the legislation has been developed to improve preparedness, awareness, and protective security standards across the UK.
For businesses, this is not simply another compliance exercise — it is about ensuring people are safer in the places they work, visit, and enjoy every day.
Why is Martyn’s Law Being Introduced?
The Manchester Arena Inquiry identified significant gaps in preparedness and response planning at publicly accessible venues. Following these findings, the government proposed new legislation aimed at ensuring organisations take reasonable and proportionate steps to prepare for potential terrorist incidents.
The purpose of the law is to:
•Improve public safety
•Increase awareness of potential threats
•Encourage practical preparedness measures
•Reduce the impact of attacks if they occur
•Create clearer responsibilities for venue operators
The legislation focuses heavily on preparation, planning, and staff awareness rather than relying solely on physical security measures.
Which Businesses Could Be Affected?
Martyn’s Law is expected to apply to a wide range of publicly accessible locations, including:
•Retail premises and shopping centres
•Hospitality venues
•Bars, restaurants, and hotels
•Entertainment and leisure venues
•Sports facilities
•Educational premises
•Healthcare settings
•Event venues
•Large office environments
Any organisation responsible for spaces where members of the public gather may eventually fall within the scope of the legislation depending on venue capacity and usage.
Understanding the Two-Tier System
The proposed legislation introduces two levels of responsibility based on the size and capacity of the premises.
Standard Tier Premises
Smaller qualifying venues will likely be required to implement practical and achievable measures such as:
•Basic counter-terrorism awareness training
•Emergency evacuation procedures
•Lockdown plans
•Clear communication processes
•Staff response guidance
The focus at this level is ensuring staff understand how to react appropriately during an incident.
Enhanced Tier Premises
Larger venues with higher footfall may face additional obligations, including:
•Detailed terrorism risk assessments
•Enhanced security procedures
•Monitoring and screening measures
•Formal security plans
•Liaison with emergency services
•Regular reviews and documented compliance
Enhanced tier premises may also be subject to inspections and enforcement action if requirements are not met.
What Should Businesses Be Doing Now?
Although the legislation is still progressing, businesses should begin reviewing their current security arrangements now rather than waiting for enforcement deadlines.
Key areas to assess include:
•Existing security policies
•CCTV coverage and monitoring
•Access control procedures
•Staff security awareness
•Emergency response planning
•Incident reporting systems
•Visitor and contractor management
•Lockdown and evacuation procedures
Many organisations will find that they already have some measures in place but may need to formalise procedures, improve training, or strengthen documentation.
The Importance of Staff Training
One of the most important aspects of Martyn’s Law is the emphasis on people, not just physical security.
Even the best security systems can fail if staff are unsure how to respond during an emergency. Training employees to recognise suspicious behaviour, follow emergency procedures, and respond calmly under pressure will become a key part of compliance.
Prepared and informed staff can significantly reduce confusion, improve evacuation efficiency, and help emergency services respond more effectively.
How Security Companies Can Help
Professional security providers will play a major role in helping businesses prepare for the new legislation.
Support may include:
•Security audits and gap analysis
•Site risk assessments
•Emergency planning
•Staff training programmes
•Key holding and alarm response services
•Mobile patrols
•CCTV and access control recommendations
•Ongoing compliance support
Working with an experienced security partner can help businesses identify vulnerabilities early and implement practical, proportionate measures suited to their environment.
Final Thoughts
Martyn's Law represents a significant step forward in improving public safety standards across the UK.
While the legislation will introduce new responsibilities for many organisations, its purpose is ultimately straightforward — ensuring businesses are better prepared to protect people in the event of a terrorist incident.
Businesses that begin preparing early will be in a far stronger position when the legislation comes into force, while also demonstrating a clear commitment to safety, professionalism, and duty of care.
For organisations operating publicly accessible premises, now is the time to review security procedures, strengthen preparedness, and ensure staff are ready to respond confidently should the unexpected happen.
