In recent years, the need for enhanced security measures at public venues has become increasingly important. This is where Martyn’s Law comes into play. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, this new legislation aims to make public spaces safer by requiring venues to take practical steps to protect visitors from potential terrorist threats. At TÜV UK, we’re here to help you understand what Martyn’s Law means for your business and how you can prepare effectively.

What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is a proposed law in the UK designed to improve security at public venues. It requires venues to implement measures that can help prevent and respond to terrorist attacks. The law applies to a wide range of locations, from small venues to large events, and introduces a tiered approach based on the size and capacity of the venue.

Why is Martyn’s Law Important?

The introduction of Martyn’s Law is a significant step towards enhancing public safety. It mandates that venues take "reasonably practicable" steps to ensure the safety of visitors. This includes training staff, having clear evacuation procedures, and mandating a responsible person for considering the risks from terrorism and how they would respond to an attack. The law is a response to the evolving threat of terrorism and aims to mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack, like the Manchester Arena attack and reduce harm in the event of a terrorist attack occurring.

Criteria to Be in Scope for Martyn’s Law

Understanding whether your venue falls under the scope of Martyn’s Law is crucial for compliance. The law applies to a variety of premises and events, with specific criteria determining which venues need to adhere to the new regulations:

Premises Criteria: To be in scope, a venue must be a building or group of buildings used for qualifying activities. The premises should meet certain thresholds for the number of individuals present at any given time.

Event Criteria: Events that take place in defined premises and host at least 800 attendees at the same time are included. These events must also meet the 'express permission' criteria and be accessible to the public.

Tiered Approach: The law introduces a tiered system based on the size and capacity of the venue. Smaller venues (200-799 individuals) are required to implement basic public protection procedures, while larger venues (800+ individuals) must adopt more comprehensive security measures.

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How TÜV UK Can Help

At TÜV UK, we understand that navigating new regulations can be challenging. That’s why we offer support to help you comply with Martyn’s Law. Our services include certification to ISO standards such as ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, ISO 27001 for information security, and ISO 22301 for business continuity. These certifications can help you establish robust systems and processes to manage risks and ensure safety.

ISO Certifications and Their Benefits

• ISO 45001: This standard helps you create a safe working environment by identifying and managing health and safety risks. It’s crucial for venues to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors.

• ISO 27001: Protecting sensitive information is vital, especially in public venues. ISO 27001 helps you manage information security risks effectively.

• ISO 22301: This standard focuses on business continuity, ensuring that your venue can continue to operate during and after a disruptive event. It’s about being prepared for the unexpected.

Taking Action

Preparing for Martyn’s Law doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by assessing your current security measures and identifying areas for improvement. Consider the size and capacity of your venue and what practical steps you can take to enhance safety. Training your staff and nominating a responsible person are simple yet effective ways to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Martyn’s Law is about making public spaces safer for everyone. By taking proactive steps and working towards ISO certifications, you can ensure your venue is prepared to meet the new requirements. At TÜV UK, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you comply with Martyn’s Law and enhance your venue’s security.