Martyn's Law Compliance Guide 2026/27

Understanding Martyn's Law and Your Responsibilities

Martyn's Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, has been introduced to improve public safety by requiring certain venues and public premises to consider the risk of terrorist attacks and implement proportionate protective measures. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, the legislation aims to ensure organisations are better prepared to protect staff, visitors, customers, and members of the public.

The law applies to a wide range of publicly accessible premises and events across the UK, including entertainment venues, educational establishments, hospitality businesses, places of worship, community facilities, healthcare settings, and other locations where people gather.

Organisations covered by Martyn's Law must take reasonable and proportionate steps to reduce vulnerability to terrorist threats and improve their ability to respond effectively should an incident occur.

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Who Must Comply with Martyn's Law?

Martyn's Law applies to qualifying premises and events that meet attendance thresholds set out within the legislation. Those responsible for managing these premises must understand their obligations and ensure suitable measures are in place.

Affected organisations may include:

• Schools, colleges and universities
• Hotels and conference centres
• Pubs, bars and restaurants
• Shopping centres and retail premises
• Community halls and civic buildings
• Sports and leisure facilities
• Healthcare environments
• Places of worship
• Entertainment venues and theatres
• Event organisers

The requirements vary depending on the size and capacity of the premises, ensuring that smaller organisations are not burdened with disproportionate obligations.

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Standard Tier Premises

Standard Tier premises are generally locations where 200 to 799 individuals may be present.

Those responsible for Standard Tier premises must consider how they would respond to a terrorist incident and implement practical procedures designed to protect people on site.

Typical measures may include:

• Emergency evacuation procedures
• Lockdown arrangements
• Staff awareness training
• Incident communication processes
• Emergency response planning
• Procedures for contacting emergency services

The emphasis is on preparedness and ensuring staff understand how to respond during an emergency.

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Enhanced Tier Premises

Enhanced Tier premises are generally locations where 800 or more individuals may be present.

In addition to the procedural requirements of the Standard Tier, Enhanced Tier organisations may need to demonstrate more comprehensive security arrangements and risk management processes.

These may include:

• Formal terrorism risk assessments
• Security management plans
• Access control measures
• CCTV and monitoring systems
• Protective security measures
• Enhanced staff training programmes
• Documented compliance procedures

The objective is to reduce vulnerabilities while maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for legitimate visitors.

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How to Prepare for Martyn's Law Compliance

Preparing for compliance begins with understanding how your premises could be affected by potential security threats and identifying practical steps to reduce risk.

Key areas to review include:

Risk Assessment

A thorough assessment should identify potential vulnerabilities, evaluate likely threats, and determine appropriate protective measures.

Emergency Procedures

Clear and documented procedures should be established for evacuation, invacuation, lockdown, communication, and emergency response.

Staff Training

Employees should understand their responsibilities, recognise suspicious behaviour, and know how to respond appropriately during an incident.

Security Measures

Premises should review existing security arrangements and consider whether additional controls are required to meet legislative expectations.

Ongoing Review

Compliance should not be viewed as a one-time exercise. Procedures, training, and security arrangements should be reviewed regularly to ensure continued effectiveness.

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Martyn's Law Compliance Checklist

Organisations should consider whether they have:

✓ Identified whether the premises fall within the scope of the legislation

✓ Conducted an appropriate terrorism risk assessment

✓ Reviewed emergency response procedures

✓ Implemented evacuation and lockdown arrangements

✓ Provided relevant staff awareness training

✓ Established clear communication procedures

✓ Assessed physical security measures

✓ Documented compliance activities

✓ Scheduled regular reviews and updates

Completing these steps can help organisations demonstrate a proactive approach to protecting people and meeting their legal responsibilities.

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How BDS Fire Can Help

BDS Fire supports organisations across the UK with practical guidance, risk assessments, life safety systems, security solutions, emergency planning, and Martyn's Law compliance services.

Whether your organisation requires assistance understanding its obligations, developing procedures, improving security arrangements, or delivering staff training, our experienced team can provide tailored support designed to meet your operational requirements and legislative responsibilities.

Our approach focuses on practical, proportionate, and cost-effective solutions that help organisations improve safety, strengthen resilience, and protect people.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Martyn's Law?

Martyn's Law is UK legislation designed to improve preparedness and protection against terrorism in publicly accessible premises and events.

Does Martyn's Law apply to small businesses?

Not all businesses will fall within the scope of the legislation. Applicability depends largely on the type of premises and expected attendance levels.

What is the difference between Standard Tier and Enhanced Tier?

Standard Tier premises focus primarily on preparedness procedures, while Enhanced Tier premises are subject to additional security and risk management requirements.

Do staff require training?

Yes. Staff awareness and emergency response training form an important part of demonstrating compliance and improving preparedness.

What happens if my organisation does nothing?

Organisations that fall within the scope of the legislation may face enforcement action if they fail to meet their legal obligations.

How can I determine whether my premises are affected?

A professional assessment can help establish whether your premises fall within the scope of Martyn's Law and identify the steps needed to achieve compliance.

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Need support with Martyn's Law compliance? Contact BDS Fire today to arrange a consultation and ensure your organisation is prepared for its legal responsibilities under the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.