SCE Update – Martyn’s Law

BRIEFING FOR BUILDING OCCUPIERS OVERVIEW

This law introduces new legal duties for public premises to enhance preparedness and protection against terrorist threats. This includes multi-occupied buildings such as shopping centres, office complexes, mixed-use developments as well as outdoor space.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR OCCUPIERS

1. Determine Applicability
   If your individual unit or shared space is accessible to the public and regularly hosts 200 or
   more people, you may fall under the Standard Tier.
   ‘Enhanced Tier’ may apply if the entire building or a specific venue within it hosts 800+ people.
2. Coordination with Building Management
   Collaborate with landlords, managing agents, and other occupiers to:
   Clarify who is responsible for which areas (e.g., shared entrances, atriums, food courts).
   Ensure a coordinated approach to compliance and emergency planning.
3. Standard Tier Duties (200–799 capacity)
   Undertake basic preparedness measures, including:
   Terrorism awareness training for staff
   Clear and practiced emergency procedures
   Visible signage and communication plans
4. Enhanced Tier Duties (800+ capacity)
   If your premises fall under this tier:
   Conduct a risk assessment
   Develop and implement a security plan
   Take reasonably practicable steps to reduce vulnerabilities (e.g. access control, CCTV, staff
   drills)

SHARED SPACES AND COMMON AREAS
Responsibility for shared areas (e.g. lobbies, corridors, car parks) typically lies with the building owner or managing agent. However, occupiers must:
-Be aware of the building-wide security plan.
-Participate in joint training and drills.
-Share relevant information with other tenants and management.

OUTDOOR SPACES
Martyn’s Law also applies to outdoor spaces, particularl when they are used for events or gatherings that meet the law’s capacity thresholds.

Outdoor Spaces in Scope
According to official guidance and sector briefings:
-Parks and open spaces used for festivals, fairs, or large-scale events
-Markets, including seasonal or farmers’ markets
-Public squares and landmarks used for celebrations, vigils, or gatherings
These spaces are considered in scope if:
-They are publicly accessible or are used for organised events.

SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) will provide:
-Practical guidance tailored to multi-occupancy settings
-Templates for risk assessments and emergency plans
-Training resources for staff

TIMELINE AND COMPLIANCE GUIDELINES AND PENALTIES
The Act came into force in April 2025.
Compliance guidance is expected to be published, with a 24-month preparation period before the Act’s enforcement. Penalties for non-compliance include fines up to £18m or 5% of global turnover, and imprisonment for severe offences.

NEXT STEPS FOR OCCUPIERS

1. Review your premises’ capacity and usage.
2. Engage with your building’s management to understand shared responsibilities.
3. Begin staff training and emergency planning.
4. Monitor updates from the SIA and government for detailed guidance.

COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
✔️Determine if your premises fall under Standard or Enhanced Tier
✔️Coordinate with building management and other occupiers
✔️Undertake terrorism awareness training for staff
✔️Develop and practice emergency procedures
✔️Implement visible signage and communication plans
✔️Conduct risk assessments (Enhanced Tier)
✔️Develop and implement a security plan (Enhanced Tier)
✔️Participate in joint training and drills for shared spaces
✔️Review and comply with guidance for outdoor spaces used for events