Over the years, the UK has suffered various levels of terror-related incidents. The most recent is the Manchester Arena attack.
To better protect people in public spaces, the UK Government has introduced the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill – also known as ‘Martyn’s Law’.
Businesses that fall under the legislation must comply with the new health and safety laws. Any who breach could end up facing serious sanctions and financial penalties.
In this guide, we’ll look at what Martyn’s Law is, who it applies to, and how to prepare your business for the possibility of a terrorist attack..
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law is a legislative bill that requires venues to take necessary but proportionate steps in the event of a terrorist attack. These venues class as a publicly-accessible space; like a shopping centre, football arena, or town hall.
The bill was introduced to Parliament on the 12th of September 2024 and is currently undergoing Parliamentary scrutiny. Business owners must act accordingly to help mitigate potential attacks – reducing harm to the public.
Under the bill, these premises must be better prepared and ready to respond during such incidents. It’s also in compliance with health and safety requirements applicable to their business.
The new law isn’t about stopping terrorism from happening; or even asking employers to prevent it. That’s a job for the UK security service and the police. It’s about reducing the impact or aftermath of such horrendous attacks.
Why is it called Martyn’s Law?
The bill was named after Martyn Hett; one of the 22 people who lost their lives during the Manchester Arena attack on the 22nd of May 2017.
Figen Murray (Martyn’s mother) initiated ‘The Martyn’s Law Campaign Team’. The team worked tirelessly to pass the law, demanding public safety becomes the Government's top priority.
The UK Government is committed to introducing the finalised legislation, after it was reaffirmed in King Charles’s recent speech.
Who does Martyn’s Law apply to?
Martyn’s Law applies to venue owners who meet certain legal requirements. The legal terms are still being discussed, as businesses have raised issues on potential financial burdens.
However, the bill states businesses must comply with Martyn’s Law based on two categories:
Enhanced Tier
If a business premise can hold 800 people and more, it’s categorised under the ‘Enhanced Tier’. These venues are selected due to their capacity which can be utilised during a potential attack.
Businesses under the Enhanced Tier must:
- Inform the Government Regulator of their premise or event taking place.
- Have reasonable procedures to minimise the aftermath of a terrorist attack or physical harm being caused.
- Keep a security document containing an assessment of the terrorism risk. (This must be provided to the Regulator).
- Appoint a person as the ‘Designated Senior Individual’ (if the current responsible person is a body corporate).
Standard Tier
If a business premise can only hold between 100-799 people, it’s categorised under the ‘Standard Tier’. Smaller businesses have their own legal requirements which are more suitable based on their capacity.
Businesses under the Standard Tier must:
- Inform the Government Regulator that they are (or have become) responsible of the premise.
- Have procedures in place to help minimise physical harm affecting people on your premises in the event of a terror attack.
- Ensure owners and workers respond to terror attacks through the proper procedures. (This doesn’t involve retaliating in a physical manner).
What happens if you breach Martyn’s Law?
Qualifying businesses may face serious legal consequences if they choose to ignore, or even breach, Martyn’s Law.
Business owners may feel financial pressures to comply with the legislation. However, the UK Government is determined to deal with such burdens, as it goes against the cohesive ethics of the bill.
If a business fails to comply, Government Regulators will action their enforcement policy. Depending on the nature of the breach, employers may face a maximum fixed penalty of up to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue.
How to protect your business from terrorism
When a terror attack happens, the key role of a qualifying business owner is to assist. Under the new legislation, you’ll have access to preventative procedures that reflect the nature of your business.
With the right guidance, employers can support their community during horrendous times. Let’s look at ways you can protect your business from terrorism:
Be alert and aware
Preparation is key when it comes to the safety of yourself and those connected to your business. With the right action plan in place, you and your employees will know exactly what to do should you face a potential terror attack.
Teach your staff to remain alert of suspicious behaviour and activities on your premises. This might include people loitering around or expressing an unusual interest in things. Like, taking pictures of your security cameras. If it feels odd, question it.
Assess your geography
Some businesses are susceptible to terror incidents based on their location. For example, if your premise is within a shopping centre or on the high street. Here, assess what the chances of an attack are based on your geography.
It’s always advisable to consider possible weaknesses within your venue. Think about how these points may become exploited and rectify them appropriately. Employers can then create a security procedure that suits their venue - protecting it inside and out.
Present security training
Whether you’re running a clothing store or hosting a festival, security should always be at the forefront of your mind. Employees are integral when it comes to workplace safety; that’s why they must have the right security training.
Staff should know what safety measures are necessary on a daily basis, as well as how to report certain security issues. Training can even include how to deal with incidents in a neighbouring business or public area.
Keep up-to-date with legal terms
It’s crucial for employers to keep up-to-date when it comes to security legislation. Some laws are still being drafted, whilst others are amended to conform with societal changes.
The government’s aim behind implement Martyn’s Law is to support qualifying businesses. This means proper security procedures could be implemented with little to no costs for employers.
When does Martyn's Law come into effect?
Martyn’s Law was introduced on the 12th of September 2024. The bill received cross-party support as it comes before the House of Commons in the next assembly of Parliament (in 2024).
The new guidelines scale up preparedness against potential terrorist attacks. They also initiate safety measures for the public without putting unnecessary pressure on smaller businesses.
What types of businesses does Martyn’s Law apply to?
Martyn’s law applies to businesses with certain capacity standards. For example:
- Entertainment and leisure.
- Retail and shopping centres.
- Food and drink.
- Art galleries and museums.
- Sports grounds and attractions.
- Government buildings (like town halls and local authorities).
- Places of worship.
- Health and education facilities (like nurseries and daycares).
- Transport hubs (like trains, trams, and airports).
Get expert advice on Martyn’s Law with Peninsula
The UK has been victim to numerous terror incidents in recent times, like the Manchester Arena attacks. It falls to local business owners to offer safety and protection when it comes to reducing such incidents.
Peninsula offers expert advice on Martyn’s Law. We offer 24-hour HR advice - ensuring your business remains protected from potential threats and violence.
Want to find out more? Contact us on 0800 028 2420 and book a free consultation with one of our Health and Safety consultants today.
