Staying ahead of regulatory changes – especially when they directly impact how your organisation protects people in public spaces is vital. With Martyn’s Law (officially the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025) now law, it is more important than ever for premises to review and strengthen their security and safety systems.
Here is what you need to know, and how it relates to fire detection and security systems:
What is Martyn’s Law?
- Martyn’s Law introduces a duty of care for premises and events where the public congregates.
- It uses a tiered model, based on how many people are expected onsite:
- Standard Tier: premises with 200-799 people
- Enhanced Tier: premises with 800+ people
For Enhanced Tier sites, there are additional security requirements (e.g. CCTV, bag searched and more formal security planning) plus a need to register with the Security Industry Authority (SIA).
- The law gained Royal Assent on the 3rd of April 2025, but there is an implementation period to give venues time to prepare.
Why Security and Fire Systems Matter:
From a fire detection and security standpoint, Martyn’s Law isn’t just about anti-terror measures, its also a catalyst for integrating and elevating your existing protection systems:
- CCTV: Enhanced-tier premises now have a regulatory expectation to implement appropriate monitoring, such as CCTV, to help deter, detect and respond to potential threats.
- Access Control: As part of risk assessments, businesses may need to revisit access control, physical barriers, and how these interact with fire exits and evacuation routes.
- Alarm Systems: Fire detection systems (e.g. smoke alarms, PAVA/Public Address) must be considered in broader security planning. If an incident occurs, integrated alarm and communication systems can help manage lockdown or evacuation more safely.
- Staff Training and Procedures: Martyn’s law requires organisations to prepare “public protection procedures.” This includes training staff to respond to emergencies, lock down and guide people to safe routes.
- Risk and Vulnerability Assessments: You will need to assess vulnerabilities, not just for fire but for security threats and then plan proportionate mitigations.
- Regulator Engagement: The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will regulate compliance. For enhanced tier premises, you’ll need documented security plans and a nominated person responsible for compliance.
How Pacific can help you comply:
We specialise in designing and installing the integrated security and fire detection systems that Martyn’s Law demands. Here’s how we can support you:
- Design, supply, and implement CCTV systems, access control and alarm systems tailored to your risk profile.
- Develop security plans and emergency procedures, ensuring they co-exist with fire safety protocols.
- Train your staff on fire detection and security system use.
- Provide ongoing support and audits, helping you stay compliant as the SIA begins inspection and enforcement.
Why This Matters:
- Legal Compliance: Martyn’s Law is now law, so non-compliance could lead to serious reputational or regulatory risk.
- People Safety: Strengthening your security doesn’t just protect against terrorism, it ensures that your fire safety and evacuation processes are robust and well-integrated.
- Preparedness = Resilience: With good planning, training and systems in place, your team can respond more effectively to emergencies, minimising harm and disruption.
Martyn’s Law represents a significant shift in how public-facing venues must think about security. We are here to help you navigate it from a fire detection and security perspective. Let’s work together to build safer, more resilient spaces.
Web references used to create this article:
UK Government – Martyn’s Law Royal Assent announcement
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/landmark-anti-terror-legislation-gains-royal-assent
UK Government – Introduction of Martyn’s Law to Parliament
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/martyns-law-introduced-to-parliament-to-better-protect-the-public-from-terrorism
UK Government – SIA’s regulatory role under Martyn’s Law (Enhanced Tier requirements)
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/martyns-law-the-sias-new-regulatory-role/martyns-law-the-sias-new-regulatory-role
YPO – Overview of Martyn’s Law tiers (Standard Tier summary)
https://www.ypo.co.uk/news-and-events/blog/martyns-law-what-you-need-to-know
Government Business – Security measures, training and responsibilities under Martyn’s Law
https://www.governmentbusiness.co.uk/features/martyns-law-new-security-measures-public-venues
Martyn’s Law official campaign site
https://martynslaw.uk