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Martyn’s Law is UK law designed to enhance security measures in public spaces.
It aims to make public venues better prepared and more responsive to potential threats. The law would set different requirements based on the size and nature of the venue, ensuring that all premises, from small events to large arenas, take necessary security precautions to protect the public.
What does Martyn’s Law entail?
The Act introduces a tiered approach:
Enhanced tier
Applies to venues with a capacity of 800 people or more, requiring more comprehensive security measures.
Standard tier
Applies to venues with a capacity of +200 to 799 people, with simpler, lower-cost requirements.
Risk assessment and planning
Businesses must conduct thorough risk assessment for their venues to identify potential vulnerabilities, evaluate the likelihood of various threats, and develop strategies to mitigate those risks. This process involves analyzing both internal and external factors that could impact business operations, ensuring that protective measures are in place to safeguard assets, employees, and customers. By prioritizing risk management, businesses can enhance resilience and maintain continuity in the face of unforeseen challenges.
Security measures
Based on the risk assessment, businesses will need to implement appropriate security measures tailored to their specific needs. This could include physical security enhancements like metal detectors and bag checks to deter unauthorized access, or more sophisticated surveillance systems that provide real-time monitoring and data analysis. Additionally, businesses might consider cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information, training programs to ensure staff are equipped to handle security threats, and regular audits to assess the effectiveness of these measures. These steps are crucial to creating a safe and secure environment for both employees and customers.
Staff training
Businesses must ensure that staff are trained in recognising and responding to potential threats. This includes understanding how to evacuate safely and how to assist emergency services during an incident.
Public communication
In today's complex and interconnected world, there may be requirements for clear communication strategies to effectively inform the public about security procedures. These strategies are crucial for ensuring that individuals are well-prepared and understand the necessary steps to take in case of an emergency. By providing detailed guidelines and regular updates through various channels such as social media, public announcements, and community outreach programs, authorities can foster a sense of confidence and readiness among the populace. This proactive approach not only helps to minimize panic and confusion during critical situations but also empowers people to act promptly and appropriately, safeguarding themselves and others.
Enforcement and compliance
Authorities may have powers to enforce compliance by conducting inspections, issuing fines, or taking legal action against businesses that fail to meet the required standards. These penalties can vary in severity depending on the nature of the non-compliance, ranging from monetary fines to operational restrictions or even closure of the business. In some cases, authorities may also provide guidance and support to help businesses achieve compliance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations to ensure safety, quality, and fairness in the industry.
What are our vendors saying?
Wireless critical alerts explained - Luminite
The Luminite Alertex Wireless Critical Alert System forms an interconnecting wireless mesh network across a site with a flashing beacons and sounders or wireless speakers for security messaging. When one unit is triggered, it will activate all other units on the same site and within range. The Alertex system can be activated by any call-point or key fob within range of any unit, or remotely from a central location using the Alertex web portal and IP bridge. The system is fully standalone and requires no wires or cabling. Units are battery-powered with a long battery-life up to 2 years.
Netgenium
At Netgenium, they are committed to empowering organizations to meet the rigorous requirements of Martyn’s Law. Through their advanced, intelligent, network-based safety and communication solutions, they offer a comprehensive approach to security. Their innovative IP Lockdown Solutions are not only transforming emergency preparedness but are also actively enhancing the safety protocols in various sectors, including educational institutions, healthcare facilities, public buildings, and event venues. By providing practical and dependable emergency response procedures, Netgenium ensures that these environments are equipped to handle unforeseen situations effectively, promoting peace of mind and operational resilience.
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FAQs section
Everything you need to know about Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law emerged from a campaign led by Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, who was killed in the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, amongst others. The attack highlighted the gaps in security of public venues, and the need for legal requirements to ensure that such places take safety precautions.
For businesses, especially those managing large public spaces such as arenas, shopping centres and entertainment venues, Martyn’s Law will mean a significant shift in how they approach security. They may need to:
Invest in new security infrastructure and technologies.
Regularly update risk assessments and security plans.
Train staff to handle potential threats.
Comply with legal requirements to avoid penalties.
Businesses will need to balance the costs and operational impacts of these new requirements with the need to ensure public safety. The legislation will likely require a proactive approach to security, making it a critical consideration in daily operations.
The proposed legislation will impact qualifying public premises and public events. Those responsible may be individuals, but in most cases, would be a business or organisation.
Conditions for premises would be that they have a capacity of more than 100 people and are wholly or mainly used for a listed public purpose like entertainment and leisure, retail, food and drink, theatres, museums and galleries, sports grounds, government buildings and more.
A standard tier may undertake a lower-cost, simple but effective process:
Staff training
Information sharing
Preparation plan e.g., locking doors or knowledge of lifesaving medical measures
An enhanced tier will need to undertake a risk assessment and may entail the following measures:
Developing a vigilance and security culture
Implementation of physical measures like CCTV
New security systems and processes
The government will establish an inspection and enforcement regime
Dedicated statutory guidance
According to Government data, there have been 14 terror attacks in the UK since the start of 2017. Martyn’s Law aims to enhance the safety and security of public venues and ensure they take the necessary steps to mitigate threats.
Martyn’s Law is expected to pass during the 2024 parliamentary session, with full implementation likely in 2025, giving businesses and venues enough time to prepare and comply with the new regulations.
Dedicated guidance and support will be provided from the government for Martyn’s Law to help businesses comply without undue burden.
A Regulator will monitor compliance and advise premises. The Regulator will have powers to investigate and issue fines for non-compliance.
You can find more information about Martyn’s Law and its progress by visiting GOV.UK. They have published a useful factsheet here.
But don’t worry, we’ll be updating this page regularly with the latest news and insights.