Preparing for Martyn’s Law: AV Solutions for Safer, Smarter Venues

Martyn’s Law has become a major talking point for venues of all sizes, especially as questions arise around when it comes into effect and how it will impact day-to-day operations.

So, is Martyn’s Law in effect? Not yet. While the legislation was passed in April 2025, the Government has introduced a two-year implementation window to give venues time to prepare and comply.

Still, this raises important questions:

• What exactly is Martyn’s Law?

• Does it apply to my venue?

• What steps do I need to take and when?

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Martyn’s Law and how Spartan AV can support you every step of the way.

What is Martyn’s Law?

Let’s start by defining Martyn’s Law.

Martyn’s Law, also known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is part of the UK Government’s commitment to improving the security of public spaces and events.

The law was introduced following the tragic Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, where 22 people lost their lives, including Martyn Hett. His mother, Figen Murray, has been a tireless campaigner for better public safety, and her efforts have led to this legislation aimed at increasing preparedness for terrorist threats.

Martyn’s Law is designed to improve the protective security and emergency readiness of publicly accessible locations, ensuring that venues and organisers take responsibility for the safety of their guests.

Although the Act isn’t quite in full effect yet, venues will fall into two categories based on capacity: Standard Duty Premises and Enhanced Duty Premises.

Standard Duty Premises

Criteria: Premises (including staff areas) where 200 to 799 people could be present at any given time, whether regularly or occasionally.

Requirements:

• Staff must be trained to follow clear protection procedures in the event of a terrorist attack.

• This includes actions such as evacuation, invacuation, lockdown, and communicating effectively with visitors.

• If licensed security staff are on site (e.g., SIA-licensed personnel), they must be included in planning and response procedures.

Takeaway: These requirements are low-cost and accessible, focused mainly on staff training and procedures, not physical infrastructure.

Enhanced Duty Premises

Criteria: Premises or events where 800 or more people could be expected to attend at one time.

Requirements:

• Must meet all the obligations of standard duty premises.

• Additional measures must be in place to reduce vulnerabilities, such as security monitoring or surveillance.

• A formal security plan must be created and maintained, outlining all protection measures, and must be available for inspection by authorities.

Takeaway: Larger venues carry greater responsibilities and will need to invest in physical and technological measures to safeguard visitors effectively.

Regardless of size, when Martyn’s Law comes into effect, venues should begin with a comprehensive risk assessment to identify where and how a terrorist threat could occur. Next, staff training is essential; every team member should understand what to do in an emergency. Finally, a robust and practical security plan must be created and regularly reviewed, ensuring that everyone involved knows their roles.

How Will Martyn’s Law Affect Small Venues?

These new responsibilities may feel daunting, especially for small or independent venues with limited staff and resources. Implementing updated procedures, improving surveillance, enhancing communication systems, and preparing for emergencies is a significant undertaking.

Balancing all of this while still delivering a great guest experience can seem like a big challenge. But it's important to remember: compliance isn’t optional. Failure to meet the requirements of Martyn’s Law could result in fines or even forced closure.

That said, there’s no need to panic. Although the law was passed in April 2025, Martyn’s Law isn’t fully in effect yet; there’s a two-year implementation window, giving venues time to prepare.

With the right support and guidance, compliance is entirely manageable, and that’s where Spartan AV comes in.

How Spartan AV Can Help Small Venues Comply

At Spartan AV, we’re not just a supplier for all your audio and video needs; we’re your technology partner, providing professional solutions so you can focus on what matters most.

With over 14 years of experience in the industry, we’ve worked with a wide range of businesses, including small venues and events, meaning you can trust us to provide solutions which work for your space and needs.

To ensure compliance with Martyn’s Law when it comes into full effect, we’ll carry out a bespoke assessment and a tailored package focusing on the security and protection of your guests. As part of this package, we’ll look at the following areas.

Public Address & Emergency Communication

A high-quality public address (PA) system plays a vital role in security and emergency preparedness. In a crisis, a lack of clear information and direction can lead to confusion, panic, and potentially serious harm.

That’s why a reliable and well-integrated PA system is more than just an event tool; it’s a critical safety asset. Whether you're managing a live event or responding to an emergency, your PA system should deliver messages quickly, clearly, and across your entire venue.

As part of our installation process, Spartan AV can integrate PA systems directly into your venue’s wider emergency plan. This is particularly valuable for small venues, where every investment must serve multiple purposes and deliver maximum value.

Support & Maintenance

At Spartan AV, we don’t just install your equipment; we also ensure your team knows how to use it confidently. While staff must be trained in your venue’s emergency procedures, they also need to understand how to operate the tools designed to support them in those moments.

We’re happy to provide hands-on training for relevant personnel, helping your staff make the most of the systems we install.

In addition to installation and training, we offer ongoing maintenance services to ensure your systems run smoothly with minimal downtime. Our expert AV engineers can monitor, troubleshoot, and optimise your setup, so you’re always operating at full capacity.

Responsive, proactive AV support is essential. It helps extend the life of your investment, ensures compliance standards are met, and gives you peace of mind knowing your venue is prepared and protected.

Get in Touch to Secure Your Venue

Ready to make your venue safer and Martyn’s Law compliant?

Our expert team is here to help you every step of the way, from planning and installation to training and ongoing support.

Get in touch with one of our friendly team members on 02920 481797 or quotes@spartanaudio.co.uk to find out more.

Let’s work together to make your venue both welcoming and secure.