Martyn’s Law: What It Means for Your Business and How to Prepare
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 — widely known as Martyn’s Law — received Royal Assent in April 2025 and is expected to come into force by spring 2027. Here is what it means for your business and how to prepare.
What Is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law is named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people killed in the Manchester Arena bombing in May 2017. In response, his mother, Figen Murray, campaigned tirelessly for legislation that would require public venues to take meaningful steps to protect people from terrorist attacks.
The resulting Act places new legal duties on those responsible for certain premises and events across the United Kingdom. As a result, for the first time, venue operators and event organisers will be legally required to consider how they would respond to a terrorist attack — and, for larger venues, to take proactive steps to reduce vulnerability.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been appointed as the regulator, responsible for overseeing compliance, providing guidance and, where necessary, taking enforcement action.
Who Does It Affect?
The Act applies to any premises or event where a certain number of people may reasonably be expected to be present at the same time. This includes staff, visitors and customers. Consequently, the types of venues that could fall within scope are wide-ranging:
The Two Tiers Explained
In practice, the Act uses a tiered approach based on the maximum capacity of a premises or event. This determines the level of obligation placed on the responsible person.
Standard Duty (200 – 799 people)
Premises in this tier must:
• Notify the SIA that they are a qualifying premises
• Put in place appropriate public protection procedures — practical steps staff should follow if a terrorist attack were to occur at or near the premises
Importantly, the Government has stated that standard tier requirements are centred around simple, low-cost activities. There is no mandatory requirement to install physical security measures at this level.
Enhanced Duty (800+ people)
Premises and events in this tier must:
• Notify the SIA
• Have appropriate public protection procedures in place
• Take proactive measures to reduce vulnerability — such as CCTV, access control, bag searches and vehicle checks
• Document all procedures and measures and provide this to the SIA
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The SIA will have powers to issue compliance notices, monetary penalties and restriction notices. The financial penalties are significant:
Standard Duty Premises
Up to £10,000
per breach, plus a daily penalty of up to £550 for ongoing non-compliance
Enhanced Duty Premises
Up to £18 million
or 5% of worldwide revenue, plus a daily penalty of up to £50,000
What Should You Do Now?
Furthermore, although the Act is not expected to come into force until spring 2027, the Government has provided a 24-month implementation period specifically so that businesses and organisations can prepare. Now is the time to act.
Steps you can take today:
How ADP Security Can Help
At ADP Security Systems, we provide the complete range of security services that premises will need to demonstrate compliance — all under one roof. In particular, whether you require a full security audit, upgraded CCTV and access control, or professional manned guarding and mobile patrols, our experienced team can help you meet your obligations under Martyn’s Law.
Our services that support Martyn’s Law compliance include:
Electronic Security
IP CCTV systems, access control, intruder alarms and fire alarm systems — designed, installed and maintained by our in-house engineering team.
Manned Guarding
SIA-licensed security officers providing physical presence, access management and emergency response capability at your premises.
Remote Monitoring
24/7 CCTV and alarm monitoring from our NSI Gold-accredited monitoring centre, providing round-the-clock surveillance of your site.
Security Assessments
Professional site surveys to evaluate your current security posture, identify vulnerabilities and recommend proportionate measures tailored to your premises.
As an SSAIB-certified and SIA Approved Contractor, ADP is fully accredited to design, install and maintain the security systems and services that Martyn’s Law is designed to encourage. We work with commercial businesses, educational establishments, healthcare facilities and public-facing venues across Hampshire, Surrey and Sussex.
Prepare for Martyn’s Law with Confidence
Don’t wait until the legislation comes into force. Get ahead of the requirements with a free security assessment from ADP.
☎ 01730 261510
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