Prepare for Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law will require thousands of businesses, venues, and institutions across the UK to improve their security preparedness to better protect the public from terrorist threats. At Assured Fire & Security, we’re here to help you understand your obligations and implement the right protective measures.
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law, The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is new legislation that requires those responsible for certain premises and events to consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack. Premises will be legally required to implement a range of security and safety measures, including conducting thorough risk assessments, developing and maintaining security plans, training staff on emergency procedures, and ensuring clear communication channels are in place to protect the public in the event of an attack.
When does Martyn’s law come into effect?
Martyn’s Law was passed in April 2025 and is expected to come into effect from 2027. There will be a two-year period before the rules are enforced, giving businesses and event organisers time to put the required safety and security measures in place.
Does Martyn’s Law affect my property?
Your premises will fall under Martyn’s Law if it meets all four of the following conditions:
Specified use: The site is used for purposes such as retail, hospitality, entertainment, sports, worship, healthcare, education, or similar activities.
Publicly accessible: The space is open to the public and not entirely within a private home.
Capacity threshold: The premises can reasonably expect 200 or more people to be present at one time, including staff.
Regular use: The premises are used for these activities on a regular basis.
Examples of affected premises include:
- Schools and educational institutions
- Retail premises and shopping centres
- Warehouses and industrial sites
- Places of worship
- Entertainment venues
- Sports grounds
- Healthcare facilities
- Hospitality venues and hotels
- Museums and visitor attractions
Events that qualify
Martyn’s Law applies to events based on their size and capacity:
Standard tier: Events or venues that can hold more than 100 people must put in place basic but effective safety and security measures.
Enhanced tier: Events with 800 or more attendees also fall under the law, with the event organiser responsible for ensuring compliance and implementing the required security plans.
What do I need to do?
If your premises or event falls under Martyn’s Law, you’ll need to assess potential risks, create a security plan, and make sure your staff know how to respond in an emergency. The steps required will depend on your venue’s size and tier. For most, this means carrying out a risk assessment, putting proportionate safety measures in place, and keeping records to show compliance. Larger venues and events will need more detailed plans, staff training, and regular reviews to ensure ongoing readiness.
Assured Fire & Security is here to support through every stage of the Martyn’s Law compliance process across Essex.
Enforcement & Penalties
Martyn’s Law will be enforced by a new regulatory function within the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which will:
- Issue compliance notices for non-compliance
- Impose monetary penalties
- Issue restriction notices
- Pursue criminal offences for serious breaches
Protecting Essex Premises in line with Martyn’s Law
Assured Fire & Security can help you prepare for Martyn’s Law with expert guidance and practical support. Our team offers free security surveys to assess your premises and identify any improvements required to meet compliance.
We cover every stage of the process, from risk assessments and security planning to the installation and maintenance of protective systems. With experience safeguarding community centres, schools, nightclubs, and more, we can provide tailored security and safety solutions that strengthen your protection and align with your overall security strategy.
Why choose Assured Fire?
Accredited Excellence
- NSI Gold & NSI Fire Gold – The highest achievable industry accreditation
- BAFE Approved Installer – Recognised quality and compliance standards
- ISO 9001 Quality Assurance – Certified quality management
Proven Experience
- Over 30 years’ collective experience in fire and security
- Trusted by schools, warehouses, shops, and businesses across Essex and the South East.
- Comprehensive understanding of compliance requirements
Get Your Free Martyn's Law Consultation
Our team of security experts will:
- Assess whether your premises falls within scope
- Identify your compliance tier (standard or enhanced duty)
- Recommend appropriate security measures
- Provide a detailed, no-obligation quote
- Contact us today to discuss your Martyn’s Law requirements.
FAQs
When does Martyn’s Law come into effect?
Martyn’s Law was passed in April 2025 and is expected to take effect from 2027. The government has allowed a two-year implementation period to give organisations time to prepare and comply with the new security requirements.
What properties will be affected?
The law applies to publicly accessible venues that meet specific criteria, including those used for retail, hospitality, entertainment, sports, worship, healthcare, or education. To qualify, a site must regularly host 200 or more people at one time, including staff.
Does Martyn’s Law affect the whole of the UK?
Yes. The legislation will apply across the entire United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. All qualifying venues and events, regardless of location, will need to meet the relevant requirements.
Who is responsible for compliance?
The person or organisation responsible for managing or operating the premises will be legally required to ensure compliance. This may include business owners, venue managers, or event organisers.
What happens if I don’t comply?
Failure to comply could lead to enforcement action by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), including fines, restriction notices, or even criminal prosecution for serious breaches.
How can I prepare for Martyn’s Law?
Start by reviewing your current safety and security measures. Carry out a risk assessment, develop a security plan, and train your staff. Working with a professional security company like Assured Fire & Security can help you identify gaps and implement compliant solutions.
Do you only assist with compliance for Martyn’s Law in Essex?
No, depending on the job, our service area can extend right across the South East of England.
Contact us
Contact Assured Fire & Security today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect what matters most.