This week, Premier Security MD Neil Johns had the opportunity to meet and learn from campaigner Figen Murray, whose son Martyn Hett was one of the 22 people killed in the devastating Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017.
Figen is the force behind Martyn’s Law, UK legislation that will require public venues to bring in security measures against the threat of terrorism. Martyn’s Law is a major strand of the Government’s Protect Duty initiative and draft legislation will be published in the early spring.
Figen, who was recently made an OBE for her counter-terrorism work, was a special-guest speaker at a PSSA – Perimeter Security Suppliers Association interact day, held in Warwick. Figen helped the group understand the scope of Martyn’s Law, which will be coming into effect across every corner of the UK.
Figen said: “Martyn’s law isn’t going to stop terrorism, but common-sense security and making sure venues are doing all they can to keep people safe could mean fewer suffer what myself and the families of Manchester have had to endure.”
In its preparation for Martyn’s Law and Protect duty, Premier Security & Fire Ltd is working closely with security advisers and organisations to monitor details and requirements of the legislation which has yet to be fully unveiled.
What Premier Security & Fire Consultants Ltd does know is that Martyn’s Law will follow a tiered model linked to the type of activity taking place and the size of the expected audience and will seek to improve how prepared a venue is without putting an undue burden on business.
A standard tier will apply to locations with a maximum capacity of more than 100 people. Venues will need to undertake low-cost effective measures such as training, information sharing, and completion of a preparedness plan.
An enhanced tier will focus on high-capacity locations. Those that can hold 800 or more will be required to undertake an additional risk assessment that will inform the development and implementation of a thorough security plan.
Figen added: “I welcome the government’s commitment to including smaller venues and working quickly on this legislation. It is vital we now take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and others wherever possible and I hope other countries learn from this ground-breaking legislation.”
The Government will also establish an inspection and enforcement regime, issuing sanctions for breaches, and will provide statutory guidance and bespoke support.
For more information on Martyn’s Law, go to
https://lnkd.in/gjZAhi4Y
