Public safety in the UK has entered a new era. With the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: widely known as Martyn’s Law: now in full effect, the responsibility for venue security has shifted from a recommendation to a strict legal mandate. If you manage a venue, retail space, or event, you can no longer afford to "wait and see."

At KGFM Ltd, we understand that navigating new legislation can feel like a minefield. However, as a premier security company UK, our mission is to simplify this process for you. Compliance isn't just about avoiding fines; it is about creating a safer environment for your staff and visitors.

Here are the five critical things you need to know before you start preparing your venue for Martyn’s Law compliance.

1. CAPACITY DETERMINES YOUR TIER (AND YOUR BUDGET)

Martyn’s Law is not a "one size fits all" piece of legislation. Your obligations are strictly tied to the capacity of your premises. The law splits venues into two distinct categories: the Standard Tier and the Enhanced Tier. Knowing which one you fall into is the first step toward effective planning.

• STANDARD TIER (200–799 PEOPLE): This category applies to smaller venues like community halls, restaurants, and many retail stores. If your capacity is between 200 and 799, your requirements focus on low-cost, effective activities. This includes simple preparedness measures, such as staff training and having a clear emergency evacuation plan.
• ENHANCED TIER (800+ PEOPLE): For larger venues like stadiums, arenas, and major shopping centres with a capacity of 800 or more, the requirements are significantly more rigorous. You will need to conduct a thorough terrorism-focused risk assessment and implement a comprehensive security plan.

Miscalculating your capacity is a common mistake that can lead to either overspending or, worse, falling short of legal requirements. If you are unsure which tier applies to your multi-use space, KGFM Ltd offers a free initial assessment to help you categorise your premises accurately.

2. YOU MUST DESIGNATE A "RESPONSIBLE PERSON"

Compliance is no longer a faceless corporate task. The law requires every qualifying venue to have a named Responsible Person. This individual is legally accountable for ensuring that the public protection measures are in place and effective.

The Responsible Person must:

1. Notify the Regulator: You must register your details with the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which is the primary regulator for Martyn’s Law.
2. Oversee Training: Ensure that all staff: including part-time and contract workers: understand their roles in a security emergency.
3. Document Everything: Maintain a clear audit trail of security drills, risk assessments, and hardware maintenance.

At KGFM Ltd, we work closely with designated Responsible Persons to provide the "personal supervision" and "tailor-made solutions" we are known for. We don't just hand you a manual; we stand by you to ensure your staff are professionally trained and confident in their duties.

3. TERRORISM RISK ASSESSMENTS ARE NOT OPTIONAL

While most business owners are familiar with standard Health & Safety or Fire Safety assessments, a Martyn’s Law risk assessment is a different beast entirely. It requires you to look at your venue through the lens of potential attack methodologies.

A compliant assessment must consider:

• Vulnerability Points: Where are the "chokepoints" during entry or exit?
• Attack Methods: How would you respond to a vehicle-as-weapon attack or an improvised explosive device?
• Surrounding Areas: Does your venue have "grey space" (public areas immediately outside your doors) that requires monitoring?

For Enhanced Tier venues, these assessments must be submitted to the SIA and updated whenever there are significant changes to the building or operations. Relying on an outdated assessment is a major compliance risk. Our experts at KGFM Ltd specialise in high-level security consultancy, ensuring your assessments meet the rigorous SIA Standards.

4. "REASONABLY PRACTICABLE" IS THE NEW BENCHMARK

A common concern among venue managers is the cost of high-tech security hardware. However, the law explicitly states that measures must be "reasonably practicable." This means the security measures you implement should be proportionate to your venue's size, nature, and resources.

You don't necessarily need to turn your local theatre into a fortress. Compliance often comes down to:

• Manned Guarding: Having SIA-licensed guards who are trained in behavioral detection.
• Effective CCTV: Ensuring your surveillance covers the right areas and is monitored correctly.
• Emergency Procedures: Clearly communicated "Lockdown" or "Evacuate" protocols.

KGFM Ltd prides itself on providing bespoke security packages that focus on what you actually need. We avoid the "one-size-fits-all" approach, ensuring your security budget is spent on high-impact measures that satisfy the regulator and protect the public. Learn more about our specific compliance services here: https://www.kgfm.co.uk/martyns-law-compliance

5. THE CLOCK IS TICKING (AND THE FINES ARE SUBSTANTIAL)

While the implementation period allows venues time to adjust, the deadline for full enforceability: expected no later than April 2027: is approaching faster than it seems. The SIA has been granted broad enforcement powers, and the penalties for non-compliance are designed to be a genuine deterrent.

The consequences of failing to meet your Martyn's Law obligations include:

• Compliance Notices: Formal orders to fix security gaps within a set timeframe.
• Restriction Notices: The power to shut down events or limit venue capacity until safety is proven.
• Financial Penalties: Fines can reach up to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue, whichever is higher.

Waiting until the last minute will likely lead to rushed assessments and higher costs for equipment and training. By starting now, you can integrate these costs into your 2026/2027 budgets and ensure a smooth transition.

WHY KGFM LTD IS YOUR PREMIER CHOICE FOR COMPLIANCE

At KGFM Ltd, we don't just provide guards; we provide peace of mind. Our team is working at the forefront of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, helping venues across the UK navigate these complex waters. We believe that security is a rewarding partnership between our agency and your business.

Our Martyn’s Law Compliance Services include:

• Free Initial Assessments: To determine your tier and current vulnerability level.
• Professional Staff Training: ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) and SCaN training for your on-site teams.
• Bespoke Risk Management: Expert consultancy for Enhanced Tier venues.
• Nationwide Manned Guarding: SIA-approved personnel to implement your security plan on the ground.

Don't leave your venue’s future to chance. Get ahead of the regulation and show your customers that their safety is your top priority.

CONTACT KGFM LTD TODAY

Whether you are a small boutique in the Standard Tier or a major venue in the Enhanced Tier, we are here to help. Contact our London office for a confidential discussion about your security needs.

KGFM LTD
60 Tottenham Court Road, Fitzrovia, London W1T 2EW
Phone: 0203 432 1635
Email: info@kgfm.co.uk
Website: www.kgfm.co.uk

Ready to secure your venue? We are currently collaborating with Sonny, our Social Media Manager, to share more compliance tips on our social channels. Stay tuned for our next update or check out more insights at https://kgfm.co.uk/blog.