Martyn's Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing public safety by ensuring that venues implement appropriate security measures to mitigate the risks of terrorist attacks. The law introduces a tiered approach, categorizing venues based on their capacity and associated risk levels. This blog focuses on Standard Duty (Tier) Premises, detailing their obligations and the latest updates from Protect UK.
Article 13 in a series on Martyn's Law
This blog is part of our ongoing series exploring Martyn’s Law and its impact on public safety. We recommend checking out the full series for valuable insights. For further information or tailored advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
What Is a Standard Duty (Tier) Premise?
Standard Duty Premises are defined as venues where it is reasonable to expect that between 200 and 799 individuals may be present at the same time. These venues are required to undertake proportionate security measures to enhance preparedness and response to potential terrorist incidents.
Examples of Standard Duty Premises
Venues that typically fall under the Standard Tier include:
- Entertainment venues such as small theatres and music halls.
- Restaurants, pubs, and cafés with a seating capacity within the specified range.
- Community centres and leisure facilities.
- Retail stores with significant customer footfall.
- Museums, libraries, and art galleries.
Obligations for Standard Duty Premises
Operators of Standard Tier venues are required to:
- Notify the Regulator: Inform the Security Industry Authority (SIA) that their premises fall within the scope of Martyn’s Law.
- Implement Public Protection Procedures: Establish appropriate and reasonably practicable procedures to be followed by staff in the event of a terrorist attack occurring at or near the premises. These procedures aim to reduce the risk of physical harm to individuals and may include actions such as locking doors, closing shutters, and identifying safe routes to cover.
- Staff Training: Provide basic training to employees on recognizing and responding to potential threats, ensuring they are prepared to implement the established procedures effectively.
- Regular Review: Periodically assess and update security measures and response plans to address evolving threats and ensure ongoing preparedness.
Recent Updates
As of November 2024, Protect UK has emphasized that the requirements for Standard Tier premises focus on simple, low-cost activities designed to improve staff preparedness and response without necessitating significant financial investment. The legislation does not require physical alterations to premises or the purchase of specialized equipment, aiming instead to enhance safety through procedural readiness and staff awareness.
Under Martyn’s Law, Standard Duty Premises play a crucial role in the collective effort to enhance public safety. By implementing straightforward and cost-effective security measures, these venues contribute significantly to the overall preparedness against potential terrorist threats. Operators are encouraged to stay informed about their obligations and utilize resources provided by Protect UK to ensure compliance and the safety of their patrons and staff.
A Tailored Approach to Diverse Needs
United Outcomes specialises in providing bespoke solutions to support organisations in meeting the requirements of Martyn’s Law. We understand the unique challenges faced by venues of all sizes and offer tailored advice to address specific needs. Our approach focuses on venue-specific guidance, ensuring that every strategy we develop is both effective and aligned with your objectives. By partnering with us, you can confidently navigate the responsibilities of Martyn’s Law, transforming challenges into opportunities to enhance public safety and resilience.
Kevin Purcell
Kevin, United Outcomes’ Chief Operating Officer, boasts a distinguished career leveraging his background as a senior police officer to drive organisational excellence. With over a decade in leadership roles, Kevin excels in coordinating multi-agency operations, underscoring his adeptness in emergency preparedness. Specialising in change management, leadership, and development across various sectors, he has a record of executing projects efficiently, within budget, and to the highest standards.
