The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has issued a further update on preparations for the implementation of Martyn’s Law, reinforcing the importance of early engagement and planning for organisations that may fall within the scope of the new legislation.

While Martyn’s Law is not expected to come into force until next year, the regulator is encouraging venue operators, event organisers, and businesses responsible for publicly accessible locations to begin preparing now. The aim of the legislation is straightforward: to improve public safety by ensuring that organisations consider the threat of terrorism and implement proportionate measures to protect people.

What is Martyn’s Law?

Martyn’s Law, formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, will introduce legal duties for those responsible for qualifying premises and events. The legislation is designed to help organisations better prepare for and respond to potential terrorist incidents by embedding practical protective security and preparedness measures into day-to-day operations.

The SIA has emphasised that the legislation is not intended to prevent events from taking place or create unnecessary burdens. Instead, it focuses on ensuring that security measures are appropriate and reasonably practicable for the size and nature of the premises or event concerned. Organisations that already have robust safety and security arrangements in place are likely to have a strong foundation for compliance.

Notification Requirements

One of the key requirements under Martyn’s Law will be the obligation for responsible persons to notify the SIA that their premises or event falls within scope. The SIA is currently developing a dedicated notification portal and has published further guidance to help organisations understand their responsibilities.

The notification deadlines will vary:

  • Qualifying premises will generally have a three-month window from the commencement of the relevant part of the Act to submit their notification.
  • Changes to notified information must be reported within 28 days.
  • Qualifying events will usually need to be notified within 14 days of the event being publicly announced.

Although a third party may be authorised to submit a notification on behalf of an organisation, legal responsibility for compliance remains with the designated responsible person.

Who is the Responsible Person?

The responsible person is typically the individual, company, or organisation that has control of the premises or event. This generally means having possession of the premises and the authority to make decisions about how the site is managed and used, including who may access or remain on the premises.

Understanding who holds this responsibility is a crucial first step for organisations as they prepare for compliance.

What Should Organisations Do Now?

With the UK’s terrorism threat level currently assessed as SEVERE, organisations should take the opportunity to review their existing security arrangements and begin assessing how Martyn’s Law may affect their operations.

Practical steps include:

  • Reviewing current security and emergency response procedures.
  • Identifying who will be the responsible person under the legislation.
  • Assessing whether premises or events are likely to fall within scope.
  • Ensuring staff understand their role in safety and incident response.
  • Keeping up to date with guidance from the SIA and ProtectUK.
How TIAA Can Help

At TIAA, we work with organisations across a wide range of sectors to strengthen governance, risk management, and compliance arrangements. As Martyn’s Law implementation approaches, businesses should ensure they have suitable policies, procedures, training, and assurance mechanisms in place to demonstrate compliance and support public safety.

Taking action now will not only help organisations meet future legal requirements but also enhance resilience and provide greater confidence for staff, visitors, and stakeholders.

For advice on strengthening your governance, risk management, and compliance framework in preparation for Martyn’s Law, contact the TIAA team.

Source: Security Industry Authority, “Martyn’s Law: keeping up the momentum”, published 5 August 2026