What Employees Need To Know and How To Stay Compliant
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What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law – officially titled the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 – is a landmark UK legislation designed to strengthen how public venues, workplaces, and event spaces prepare for and respond to the threat of terrorism.
Named in honour of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena bombing on 22nd May 2017, the law follows tireless campaigning by his mother, Figen Murray, to improve public safety and ensure lessons are learned from past attacks.
The Law received Royal Assent on April 3rd 2025. Martyn’s Law will introduce a tiered framework of security duties for businesses, venue operators, and employers, helping to protect the public from terror-related incidents better. The law will become fully operational by 2027 and will be regulated by the Security Industry Authority.
Who Does The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill Apply To?
The law applies to premises and events where members of the public have access, divided into two tiers:
- Standard Tier: Applies to venues with a capacity of 200-799 people. These venues must establish public protection procedures, such as evacuation and lockdown plans, and ensure staff are aware of these measures.
- Enhanced Tier: Applies to venues and events with a capacity of 800+ people. These locations must undertake a full risk assessment, develop a security plan, and implement measures such as CCTV, bag searches, and counter-terrorism training for staff.
Businesses affected by the law include nightclubs, sports venues, theatres, hotels, libraries, museums, places of worship, and public events.
Education settings and places of worship will automatically be classified under the standard tier, regardless of capacity.
Is your business fully prepared?
How can you prepare?
While the government is expected to allow a 24-month grace period from 3rd April 2025 for implementation following the law’s enactment, businesses should begin preparing now. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Assess Your Venue’s Tier – Determine whether your premises fall under the standard or enhanced tier and identify your responsibilities under Martyn’s Law.
- Develop a Security and Emergency Plan – Ensure your organisation has procedures in place for evacuation, lockdown, and mass casualty response.
- Train Key Personnel – Enrol staff in appropriate and adequate first aid training courses to improve emergency preparedness, such as:
- Trauma Risk and Management (TraM)©
- FASTaid ©
- First Aid at Work
- First Response Emergency Care Level 3 (FREC3)
- Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Invest in Critical Equipment – Equip your venue with Public Access Trauma Kits (PAcT), Tourniquets, Haemostatic Dressings and Defibrillators, along with other essential first aid supplies, to enhance your readiness.
- Provide Adequate Training – While basic first aid knowledge and equipment are essential, Martyn’s Law emphasises the need for comprehensive preparedness, including advanced first aid trauma kits and training, as well as well-defined response plans and evacuation procedures.
- Prioritise Mental Wellbeing – Ensure trained mental health first aiders are available to support employees who experience trauma or stress.
- Stay Informed – Keep up to date with official guidance and ensure ongoing training and drills for staff.
The Importance of Adequate First Aid Training and Equipment
Martyn’s Law is fundamentally about preparedness — ensuring organisations have plans and procedures in place to minimise harm in the event of an attack or other emergency. However, while security measures such as bag searches and CCTV can help deter threats, the ability to respond quickly to casualties is equally critical.
By ensuring staff are trained in first aid, businesses can enhance their emergency response and minimise the risk of casualties in the aftermath of an incident. As part of your Martyn’s Law compliance strategy, consider implementing the following training and equipment recommendations.
Conclusions
Martyn’s Law represents a significant shift in how the UK approaches public safety, placing responsibility on businesses and event organisers to protect their staff, customers, and visitors.
By taking proactive steps now— investing in training, mental health support, and lifesaving equipment—your business can not only comply with the law but also create a safer, more resilient environment for everyone.
AML Skills Ltd is here to support businesses through this transition. Whether you need expert training or mental health first aid courses, we can help you prepare for the introduction of Martyn’s Law and meet your obligations.
