AddSecure warns on Martyn’s Law

AddSecure is urging businesses to begin preparing now for Martyn’s Law, warning that many workplaces still do not have the procedures, communication systems, or security planning needed to meet the incoming requirements.

The company said the legislation will reach further than many employers expect. Under the proposed two-tier framework described in the release, venues with a capacity of 200 to 799 people would fall under the Standard Tier, which centres on procedures, staff training, and regular audits, while sites holding more than 800 people would be subject to the Enhanced Tier, bringing additional requirements around risk assessments and physical security systems, including CCTV and bag search policies.

Nine years on from the Manchester Arena bombing, the law’s progression is forcing a wider range of organisations to examine how they would respond to a terrorist incident in real time. AddSecure argues that too many workplaces still rely on fire alarm systems as their main alert mechanism, even though a general evacuation signal could send people towards danger rather than away from it.

Instead, the company says organisations will need both evacuation and lockdown procedures, supported by robust communication systems that can be used by staff and emergency services as an incident develops.

Chris Wimshurst, Director of UK Sales at AddSecure, said: “A much needed update, Martyn’s Law will make workplaces safer. There’s a misconception that Martyn’s Law is only going to affect high-capacity venues, such as sports stadiums or entertainment arenas but that’s not the case. The two-tiered system means that businesses must also be compliant or risk legal, financial and reputational consequences.

“Currently there’s little guidance available for businesses on how to implement it effectively. We want to help navigate this complex piece of legislation, and have created a whitepaper on Martyn’s Law, explaining how it will affect the sector and what procedures will need to be implemented to remain compliant, but more importantly, to keep people safe.”

Because incidents can change shape quickly and without warning, communication sits at the centre of the preparation argument being made here. Physical security measures may still matter, but AddSecure’s position is that staff and visitors need immediate, specific instructions rather than a single building-wide signal.

Wimshurst said: “Communication is the foundation of any security situation. Terrorist incidents are difficult to prepare for because they can take many forms and can evolve quickly, making the ability to communicate all the more vital.

“High-tech security systems are fantastic and definitely play a part in keeping people safe, but ultimately instructing building users on the best course of action in real-time saves lives. This could mean informing them to lockdown, barricade the door and wait for help or it could it mean to leave through a specific exit. As a terrorist moves around a building more people may be able to escape, and informing them of when and where to go will minimise casualties.”

AddSecure has published a white paper on Martyn’s Law for organisations reviewing their preparedness and response procedures.