In a world where the threat of terrorism is an unfortunate reality, ensuring public safety has never been more critical. Hence, Martyn’s Law, a piece of UK legislation that is set to change how businesses, venues, and event organisers think about security.
But what exactly is Martyn’s Law, and what does it mean for your business? Let’s break it down.
Named in honour of Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, this law is more than just a regulatory requirement it’s a proactive and necessary step towards a safer society.
The Origins of Martyn’s Law
Martyn Hett was one of 22 people who tragically lost their lives in the Manchester Arena bombing, an event that shook the nation and exposed vulnerabilities in how public venues handle security. In the aftermath, Martyn’s mother, Figen Murray, became a vocal advocate for change, leading to the proposal of Martyn’s Law. The aim? To ensure that venues and organisations take reasonable and proportionate steps to protect the public from the threat of terrorism.
Understanding the Two Tiers of Compliance
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Draft Bill, also known as Martyn’s Law, introduces a tiered system that categorises venues based on their capacity:
- Standard Tier: This applies to venues with a capacity of 100 to 799 people. If your venue falls into this category, you must undertake basic but essential security measures. These include training staff in terrorism awareness and preparing a response plan in case of an attack. Think of it as a Health and Safety requirement—simple steps that could make all the difference in a critical moment.
- Enhanced Tier: Larger venues with a capacity of 800 or more people will face more rigorous requirements. This includes appointing a senior officer responsible for the venue’s security, conducting regular risk assessments, and potentially implementing physical security measures. The goal here is to ensure that venues that could be prime targets for attacks are as prepared as possible to prevent or mitigate harm.
Why It Matters for Businesses
For businesses, especially those in the hospitality, retail, or event sectors, Martyn’s Law is not just another box to tick. It’s about creating a culture of awareness and preparedness. While it might seem like another layer of bureaucracy, the truth is that these measures can save lives.
From an insurance perspective, compliance with Martyn’s Law could also influence your coverage. Venues proactively adopting these security measures may find themselves better positioned when arranging cover. In contrast, non-compliance could expose a business to more significant risks and liabilities in the unfortunate event of an attack.
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Addressing Concerns About Cost and Burden
One of the most significant concerns among business owners is the potential cost of implementing these measures, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The government has been mindful of this, ensuring the requirements are proportionate. The standard tier, for example, focuses on low-cost activities like training and planning rather than expensive physical upgrades.
However, it’s essential to view these costs in context. The financial and reputational damage from a terror incident could far outweigh the initial investment in security. Plus, with the right approach, these measures can be integrated into existing health and safety frameworks, reducing the overall burden.
What’s Next?
Martyn’s Law is expected to pass through Parliament soon, and was included in the King’s Speech on 17th July, with broad support from both the public and policymakers. For businesses, this is the time to start preparing. Engage with security experts, assess your venue’s current capabilities, and plan how to meet the new requirements.
Ultimately, Martyn’s Law represents a collective effort to create safer public spaces. It’s a law born out of tragedy but aimed at preventing future ones. As business owners and operators, embracing these changes isn’t just about compliance – it’s about contributing to a safer society.
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