Security legislation: Martyn’s Law
Martyn’s Law: A quick guide for businesses
Martyn’s Law is new legislation aimed at enhancing public safety in venues and workplaces. It’s officially called the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, though most people know it as Martyn’s Law, named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack.
If you run a business — whether that’s a shop, café, office, visitor attraction, event space or anything in between — here’s what you need to know to ensure your business is compliant.
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law is a new UK law that requires publicly accessible venues such as retail, hospitality, leisure, and event spaces to be more prepared for the possibility of a terrorist attack.
Under this new legislation, premises must put in place reasonable safety procedures and/or carry out risk assessments and add physical protections such as CCTV or controlled access.
When does Martyn’s Law come into effect?
The legislation gained Royal Assent and officially became law on 3 April 2025.
However, a minimum 24-month implementation period now applies, meaning businesses must be compliant by April 2027.
So you don’t have to panic — but it is a good time to start getting familiar with what’s coming.
Does Martyn’s Law apply to your business?
Martyn’s Law applies to places where the public has access, including:
- Shops
- Restaurants and bars
- Gyms and leisure centres
- Visitor attractions
- Event venues
- Schools, colleges and universities
- Larger workplaces open to the public
The law separates places into two tiers, depending on how many people can be on the premises at one time.
Standard Tier
For places with a capacity of 200–799 people.
Businesses that fall into the standard tier will need to take the following steps to be compliant:
- Have some basic emergency and safety procedures in place
- Make sure your staff know what to do in a crisis
- Register your premises with the Security Industry Authority (not required yet)
Enhanced Tier
For places or events with a capacity of 800+ people.
Businesses that fall into the enhanced tier will need to take all of the standard tier steps, as well as the following steps below to be compliant:
- A written terrorism risk assessment
- Some physical security measures (these vary depending on the venue)
- A named senior person responsible for compliance
If you’re not sure which tier you fall into, the first step is simply to check your venue’s maximum capacity.
Who’s enforcing Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law will be overseen by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which is taking on a new role as the regulator for the Act. The SIA will be checking that businesses are meeting their responsibilities, ensuring the right safety procedures are in place.
What does this mean for day-to-day business?
For most businesses, Martyn’s Law isn’t about turning your workplace into a fortress. It’s about being prepared and helping staff feel confident in an emergency — just like you would with fire safety.
Here’s what it means practically:
1) Review your current safety and emergency plans
- Do you have a clear evacuation procedure?
- Do staff know who’s in charge during an incident?
- Is signage clear?
These basics go a long way
2) Make sure your staff have the right training
Not formal security training — just simple guidance on recognising suspicious behaviour and how to keep themselves and others safe.
You can find free resources available at ProtectUK.
3) Think about how your building is used day-to-day
- How do people enter and exit your building?
- Are there busy times?
- Do contractors and service providers know your procedures?
4) Keep good documentation
Having written plans and training records will make compliance much easier once the law is fully enforceable.
5) Work with your suppliers
If you use third-party cleaning, waste, facilities management or security providers, make sure they understand your procedures too. They’re part of your site’s overall safety.
Why this matters — even if the risk feels low
The South West isn’t a high-risk region, but that’s exactly why this legislation focuses on low-cost, practical steps rather than expensive security measures for most businesses.
Preparing now helps you:
- Protect your staff and customers
- Show you’re a responsible business
- Reduce disruption if anything does ever happen
- Build confidence among employees and visitors
Think of it as boosting your general resilience — something every good business aims for.
Stay up to date
Help keep yourself informed with the latest guidance through these channels:
Does your business need support?
Bristol Waste provides security services for many businesses in Bristol, including Bristol City Council.
If you would like to review your security measures with one of our experts, please get in contact with us via the button below.
