Understanding Martyn’s Law: A Guide for Workplaces and Industries

Introduction to Martyn’s Law

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also known as Martyn’s Law, received Royal Assent on Thursday 3 April 2025.

Named after Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, this law aims to improve the security of public spaces and protect individuals from harm. It focuses on placing a responsibility on certain venues and organizations to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of terrorism and strengthen the security of public premises and events. The law ensures that venues are prepared, staff are trained, and there are sufficient safety measures in place to mitigate potential risks.

The Government intends for there to be an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force. This will allow the SIA’s new function to be established, whilst ensuring those responsible for premises and events in scope have sufficient time to understand their new obligations. This will enable them to plan and prepare appropriately.

What does Martyn’s Law do?

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, also commonly referred to as Martyn’s Law, will improve protective security and organisational preparedness across the UK by requiring that those responsible for certain premises and events consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack. In addition to this, at certain larger premises and events, appropriate steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist attacks must also be considered. Through the Act, qualifying premises and events should be better prepared and protected, ready to respond in the event of a terrorist attack.

Who will be in scope?

Premises that satisfy the following four criteria fall within scope of the Act:

✅ There is at least one building (or the premises are in a building);
✅ The premises are wholly or mainly used for one or more of the uses specified at Schedule 1 to the Act, e.g. a restaurant or a shop;
✅ It is reasonable to expect that at least 200 individuals may be present at least occasionally;
✅ The premises are not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act.

If 800 or more individuals may be expected, the premises will be an enhanced duty premises unless the Act says otherwise.

An event that satisfies the following criteria falls within scope of the Act:

✅ It will take place at premises within section 3(1)(a) of the Act, including land without buildings, that are not enhanced duty premises (or part of enhanced duty premises);
✅ The relevant premises are accessible to members of the public for the purpose of the event;
✅ It is reasonable to expect that there will be at least 800 individuals present for the event at once at some point during it;
✅ There will be measures to check entry conditions are met, such as ticket checks;
✅ The event is not excluded under Schedule 2 to the Act.

What are the requirements for standard duty premises?

Standard duty premises are generally those where it is reasonable to expect that between 200 and 799 individuals (including staff) may be present at the same time at least occasionally. The responsible person will be required to:

✅ Notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA) of their premises;
✅ Have in place, so far as reasonably practicable, appropriate public protection procedures.

These public protection procedures are those which should be followed by people working at the premises if an act of terrorism were to occur at the premises, or in the immediate vicinity. They are procedures which may be expected to reduce the risk of physical harm being caused to individuals relating to evacuation, invacuation (moving people to a safe place), locking down the premises, and communicating with individuals on the premises.

What are the requirements for enhanced duty premises and qualifying events?

Enhanced duty premises and qualifying events are premises or events where it is reasonable to expect that 800 or more individuals (including staff numbers) may be present on the premises at least occasionally or attend the event at the same time. In addition to the same requirements as standard duty premises (above), the person responsible for enhanced duty premises and qualifying events will additionally be required to:

✅ Have in place, so far as reasonably practicable, appropriate public protection measures that could be expected to reduce both (i) the vulnerability of the premises or event to an act of terrorism, and (ii) the risk of physical harm being caused to individuals if an attack was to occur there or nearby. For example, enhanced duty premises will be required, so far as is reasonably practicable, to implement measures relating to the monitoring of the premises and their immediate vicinity;
✅ Document the public protection procedures and measures in place, or proposed to be put in place, and provide this document to the SIA. This document should include an assessment of how the public protection procedures and measures reduce vulnerability and/or the risk of harm;
✅ Where the responsible person is not an individual, they must designate a senior individual with responsibility for ensuring that the responsible person complies with these requirements.

Industries and Workplaces Affected by Martyn’s Law

Martyn’s Law applies to a variety of public venues, businesses, and organizations that are deemed to be at risk of a terrorist threat. Some key industries and workplaces affected include:

✅ Event venues – Music venues, arenas, and stadiums where large crowds gather.
✅ Public transport hubs – Airports, train stations, and bus stations.
✅ Nightclubs and bars – Popular nightlife spots that can attract large groups.
✅ Shops and retail locations – Particularly those in busy city centers or tourist areas.
✅ Hotels and restaurants – Places where visitors and the general public come together.

This law is designed to affect venues where the public gathers in significant numbers, as they are considered high-risk locations. The goal is to make these spaces more resilient to terrorism, improving public safety for everyone who visits them.

How will Martyn’s Law be enforced?

To support enforcement of the regime, a new regulatory function will be established within the Security Industry Authority (SIA). The SIA will seek to support, advise, and guide those responsible for premises and events in meeting the requirements of this legislation.

Initial Requirements Under Martyn’s Law

Under Martyn’s Law, certain venues and organizations will be required to meet specific security standards. Some of these requirements include:

✅ Risk assessments – Identifying and understanding the specific risks your venue or organization faces, and which tier you fit into.
✅ Staff training – Ensuring employees are well-equipped to recognize and respond to potential threats.
✅ Low level measures – Ensure low level measures are identified, and documented/trained to staff.
✅ Physical security measures – Installing measures such as CCTV, access control, and physical barriers and search.
✅ Event planning and emergency preparedness – Developing plans for handling incidents and ensuring safety during public events.

The requirements will vary depending on the size and nature of the venue, but all organizations affected by Martyn’s Law will need to demonstrate that they have appropriate security measures in place.

Key Areas of Planning and Training for Martyn’s Law Preparedness

As part of Martyn’s Law, it’s essential for organizations to ensure their preparedness in several critical areas. These areas of training will help staff react swiftly and appropriately in the event of a threat, ensuring a safer environment for everyone. Consider training in the following areas depending on which tier you are involved in:

✅ Risk Assessment – Identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities to understand the risks that could impact your venue or organization.
✅ Health and Safety – Ensuring that staff are well-versed in workplace safety protocols and can respond appropriately to emergencies. This includes site/location layout and set up.
✅ First Aid – Providing staff with the necessary skills to assist in medical emergencies, helping to save lives when needed.
✅ Fire Safety – Training in fire safety procedures and emergency evacuation, ensuring all staff are prepared in the event of a fire-related emergency.
✅ SIA (Security Industry Authority) Licensing – Ensuring staff are qualified and certified to provide security services, offering the necessary expertise to handle security matters effectively.
✅ Crowd Control and Support – Equipping staff with the knowledge and techniques to manage large crowds and control movements to prevent incidents, to include search persons and vehicle. (enhanced duty)
✅ Physical Intervention – Teaching staff safe and effective methods of physically intervening to de-escalate situations where necessary. (enhanced duty)
✅ CCTV – Training in the operation of CCTV systems, helping staff to monitor and respond to threats in real time. (enhanced duty)

These areas of training are crucial in ensuring that your team is well-prepared to handle the challenges presented by Martyn’s Law and the potential risks posed by terrorism. By investing in comprehensive training, you can ensure the safety of your staff, clients, and the general public.

How PGL Can Support You

At PGL Training, we understand the importance of security and safety in the workplace. We offer a range of training programs specifically designed to help organizations comply with Martyn’s Law. Our courses cover areas like counter-terrorism awareness, emergency response training, and risk assessment procedures, all tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.

If you’re unsure about your organization’s obligations under Martyn’s Law or need expert support to ensure compliance, PGL can provide support for planning, policy, training or auditing.

Final Thoughts

Martyn’s Law is a vital piece of legislation that aims to improve public safety and help prevent future tragedies. By ensuring that venues and businesses take appropriate security measures, we can create safer environments for everyone. If you have any questions or need additional support with the implementation of Martyn’s Law, don’t hesitate to reach out to PGL Training—we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

References:

✅ Martyn’s Law Factsheet – Home Office in the media
✅ Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill 2024: factsheets – GOV.UK
✅ Martyn’s Law: the SIA’s new regulatory role – GOV.UK