Understanding Martyn’s Law
What Event Safeguard Consultancy Clients Need to Know
Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism Protection of Premises legislation, is a significant piece of UK legislation designed to improve protective security at public venues and events. Its purpose is to ensure that organisations responsible for publicly accessible locations take proportionate and practical steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist attacks and to be better prepared to protect life should an incident occur.
The legislation has received Royal Assent and includes a minimum implementation period of 24 months before compliance becomes mandatory. This timeframe is intended to give venue operators and event organisers sufficient opportunity to understand their responsibilities and put appropriate measures in place.
Why Martyn’s Law Matters
Martyn’s Law represents a fundamental shift in how public safety and terrorism preparedness are addressed across the UK. Rather than focusing solely on response after an incident, the legislation places a clear emphasis on proactive planning, risk awareness, and readiness.
For event organisers and venue operators, Martyn’s Law is not simply a compliance exercise. It is an opportunity to strengthen safety culture, improve operational resilience, and demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting staff, attendees, and the wider public.
How Martyn’s Law Works
A Tiered, Proportionate Approach
The requirements under Martyn’s Law are based on the number of people reasonably expected to be present at a premises or event at any one time. This tiered structure ensures that obligations remain proportionate to risk.
Standard Tier
Premises and events where between 200 and 799 people may be present fall within the standard tier. Those responsible are required to:
Notify the regulator that they are responsible for the premises or event
Put in place, so far as reasonably practicable, appropriate procedures to reduce the risk of physical harm if a terrorist incident were to occur
These measures are designed to be straightforward and low cost. They focus on planning and preparedness rather than complex security infrastructure. Typical examples include emergency evacuation planning, staff awareness training, clear communication procedures, and simple incident response actions.
Enhanced Tier
Larger premises and qualifying public events where 800 or more people may be present are subject to enhanced requirements. In addition to the standard tier duties, these include:
Implementing measures to reduce the vulnerability of the premises or event to terrorist attacks
Taking steps to reduce the risk of physical harm should an attack take place
Documenting protection measures and procedures and making this information available to the regulator
Enhanced measures may include controlled access arrangements, perimeter management, CCTV and monitoring, search procedures where appropriate, and vehicle mitigation planning.
The Meaning of “Reasonably Practicable”
A core principle of Martyn’s Law is that all measures must be reasonably practicable. This means that actions should be proportionate to the level of risk, the nature of the venue or event, and the resources available.
What is appropriate for a large arena or major public event will differ significantly from what is suitable for a smaller venue. This flexible, risk based approach aligns Martyn’s Law with existing UK safety legislation such as health and safety and fire safety requirements.
Regulation and Oversight
The Security Industry Authority will act as the regulator under Martyn’s Law. Its role will include supporting organisations to understand their responsibilities, providing guidance on compliance, and taking enforcement action where necessary to protect public safety.
The regulatory approach is expected to focus on education and support, particularly during the early stages of implementation, helping organisations embed good practice rather than relying solely on enforcement.
Preparing Now: Practical Steps for Event and Venue Operators
Although the legislation is not yet enforceable, early preparation will significantly reduce future pressure and risk. Event Safeguard Consultancy recommends that organisations begin planning now by:
Understanding Your Scope
Assess whether your premises or events are likely to fall within the standard or enhanced tier thresholds.
Reviewing Security and Safety Arrangements
Carry out a structured threat and risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities and gaps in existing controls.
Developing Clear Procedures
Create practical, site specific procedures that staff can realistically follow during an incident.
Training Staff and Contractors
Ensure everyone involved understands their role in an emergency and how to respond calmly and effectively.
Maintaining Clear Documentation
Keeping records of assessments, plans, and training will support future compliance and demonstrate due diligence.
Taking these steps early allows organisations to build robust systems gradually rather than reacting under pressure once compliance deadlines approach.
How Event Safeguard Consultancy Can Support You
Event Safeguard Consultancy works with venues, organisers, and duty holders to help them navigate evolving safety and security obligations with confidence. Our services include:
Terrorism and protective security risk assessments
Development of proportionate protection and response plans
Staff training and scenario based preparedness exercises
Compliance roadmaps aligned with Martyn’s Law expectations
Our approach is practical, proportionate, and tailored to your environment. We help you move beyond box ticking to create safer, more resilient events and venues where public protection is built into everyday operations.
If you need advice about Martyn’s Law or consultancy for your event, please get in touch.
