Martyn’s Law, also known as the Protect Duty, is a proposed legislation aimed at enhancing the security of publicly accessible locations in the UK. Named after Martyn Hett, a victim of the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, the law seeks to ensure that businesses and venues are better prepared to prevent and respond to terrorist threats.
Key Preparations for Martyn’s Law:
- Expand Duty of Care: Businesses must review and enhance their duty of care to include comprehensive risk assessments and protective measures against terrorism. This involves categorising venues into standard or enhanced tiers based on their capacity and public exposure.
- Adopt Basic Principles Now: Rather than waiting for the legislation to be enacted, businesses should start implementing the basic principles of Martyn’s Law immediately. This includes engaging with counter-terrorism services and utilising available resources and training programs.
- Conduct Regular Risk Assessments: Continuous assessment of the risk of terrorism is crucial. Businesses should evaluate their current security measures and identify areas for improvement to ensure they meet the requirements of Martyn’s Law.
- Enhance Security Training: Staff should be trained to recognise and respond to potential threats. This includes participating in counter-terrorism training programs and staying updated on the latest security protocols.
- Implement Technological Solutions: Utilising advanced security technologies, such as surveillance systems and behavioural analytics, can help detect and prevent potential threats. These technologies can provide early warnings and assist in managing incidents effectively.
By taking these steps, businesses and venues can better protect their patrons and comply with the upcoming requirements of Martyn’s Law, ultimately contributing to a safer public environment.
