What is Martyn’s Law and how does it effect event organisers?

Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is a significant development for event organisers in the UK. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, this law is designed to enhance public protection by mandating preparedness measures at venues and events where large gatherings occur. The goal is to ensure that event organisers take steps to mitigate the risk and impact of terrorist attacks, and the Security Industry Authority (SIA) will play a key role in managing its implementation and enforcement.

Key Requirements of Martyn’s Law for Event Organisers
Martyn’s Law categorises venues and events based on expected attendance to ensure proportional security measures. It introduces two main tiers:

1. Standard Duty Premises: Locations expecting between 200 and 799 individuals must implement basic security procedures, such as evacuation, invacuation (bringing people inside for safety), lockdowns, and communication plans. These venues will not be legally required to install physical security measures but must have staff trained to respond to a range of threats in a way that minimises harm to the public.
2. Enhanced Duty Premises: Locations expecting 800 or more attendees are subject to stricter obligations. These sites must go beyond basic procedural responses by conducting risk assessments and implementing measures to reduce vulnerability. This may include installing CCTV, hiring additional security personnel, or adjusting the venue layout to improve crowd management during emergencies

What is the impact of Martyn’s Law on Event Organisers?
For event organisers, Martyn’s Law represents both an operational challenge and a shift in responsibility. The requirement to adopt “reasonably practicable” measures means organisers must tailor security protocols to their event’s specific needs, balancing effectiveness with cost. This flexibility will allow event organisers to apply the law in ways that fit their resources, but it also introduces complexities in terms of assessing what is “reasonably practicable.” For smaller venues, this could involve consulting with security experts or undergoing SIA training, both of which may add to event budgets and planning timelines

The impact on large events could be even more substantial. Enhanced Duty Premises may need to make physical upgrades, which could mean higher operating costs, more comprehensive insurance policies, and potentially increased ticket prices to cover new security expenses. Furthermore, organisers will need to designate a senior individual to oversee compliance, which may lead to additional staffing needs. The presence of the SIA as a regulatory body will add further accountability, as the SIA has the authority to issue sanctions for non-compliance, which could include fines or, in severe cases, criminal charges

The Role of the SIA
The SIA’s role as the regulator for Martyn’s Law is pivotal. It will provide guidance and support to help venues meet compliance requirements but also holds the power to enforce penalties. For event organisers, this oversight means there will be clear expectations and potentially financial consequences if they fail to meet the standards.

The SIA is expected to provide resources and training initiatives to help venues comply with the law effectively, and organisers should anticipate a period of adjustment as they align their practices with the new regulations. This alignment period will also include guidance on implementing staff training and communication strategies as part of the broader security framework

Preparing for Compliance
To prepare for Martyn’s Law, event organisers should consider conducting preliminary risk assessments and reviewing their current security policies. Even for those not yet in compliance, early planning could streamline the transition once the law is fully implemented, likely by 2026. Working with security consultants or liaising directly with the SIA for advice can also ensure that measures are effective, financially feasible, and tailored to the unique characteristics of each event.

Martyn’s Law represents a fundamental shift in public safety standards for UK events, and its implementation will require a proactive approach from organisers. While the SIA’s oversight offers a structured path to compliance, the law will necessitate thorough planning, budgeting, and possibly restructuring of event operations to meet its requirements. For event organisers, this is an opportunity to enhance safety and demonstrate a commitment to protecting the public—while navigating new regulatory landscapes.

For more information on Martyn’s Law and its implications, please refer to official sources such as the UK Government’s ProtectUK website. You can also contact our commercial teams at enquiries@priavosecurity.com.