Martyn’s Law and Lone Worker Safety: What Organisations Need to Know
Following the introduction of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 — commonly known as Martyn’s Law — organisations responsible for publicly accessible locations are being encouraged to review both venue security and lone worker safety procedures.
What Is Protect Duty (Martyn’s Law)?
The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn’s Law, became law in April 2025. The legislation requires certain publicly accessible premises and events to improve preparedness and protective security measures in response to potential terrorist threats.
Organisations should also consider how lone workers may be affected during emergency situations or security incidents, particularly in publicly accessible environments.
The Government has confirmed there will be an implementation period of at least 24 months before the legislation comes fully into force, giving organisations time to understand their obligations and prepare accordingly.
Why the Legislation Matters
Developed in response to the Manchester Arena attack and years of campaigning by Figen Murray, who advocated for ‘common-sense security’ that balances vigilance with practicality:
“Martyn’s Law isn’t going to stop terrorism, but … making sure venues are doing all they can to keep people safe…”
Martyn's Law ensures organisations build lone worker protection into general venue safety and venue security planning. This includes improving organisational preparedness, emergency response procedures and broader counter terrorism preparedness.
5 Steps to Compliance with Martyn's Law
1. Carry Out Venue & Lone Worker Risk Assessments
Identify security and terror-related threats, including risks specific to staff working alone.
You may find this article helpful: Lone Worker Risk Assessments: Your Guide. You'll also find a useful template for you to download.
2. Implement Proportionate Physical & Cyber Security Measures
This may include:
- Bag searches and CCTV
- Panic alarms or emergency alert devices for lone staff
- Access controls, fencing, and staff training
Choose security measures proportional to venue risk, and include solo worker protocols. Regular staff training and awareness exercises also form an important part of preparedness planning under Martyn’s Law.
3. Create Incident Response Plans for Lone Workers
Define clear procedures for emergencies, terrorism preparedness and incident response including lone worker alerts and evacuation routes. Regular training ensures staff know what action to take — whether in public spaces or working alone.
4. Maintain Ongoing Security Reviews
Safety conditions evolve, threats change. Martyn's Law requires continual updates to risk assessments — a process enhanced by managing lone worker alerts and incident logs via a safety platform.
5. Stay Informed on Threat Alerts
Organisations must monitor official security guidance from the Government and police — and ensure lone workers are included in these communication channels.
Understanding the tiered requirements
Martyn’s Law introduces a tiered approach based on the number of individuals reasonably expected to be present at a premises or event.
Standard tier requirements apply to premises expecting between 200 and 799 individuals.
Enhanced tier requirements apply to premises or events expecting 800 or more individuals and include additional protective security considerations.
How a Lone Worker Safety Solution Supports Compliance
Martyn's Law requires more than physical security — it requires systems that empower lone staff.
SoloProtect’s solution may support organisations as part of wider emergency preparedness, lone worker safety and incident response procedures related to Martyn’s Law considerations:
- Red Alert panic button: Silent emergency calls 24/7
- Risk Messaging (mass notification): Site-wide alerts to staff
- Ready2Talk chaperoning: Pre-emptive support before escalation
- Alarm audio & Check-In logs: Provide audit trails for compliance and training
These features may support broader preparedness, communication and emergency response procedures aligned with Martyn’s Law considerations.
Take a look at our blog: What is a lone worker?
Supporting Your Martyn’s Law Compliance Planning
Martyn’s Law will introduce new legal responsibilities for organisations responsible for publicly accessible premises and events, making preparation and planning increasingly important now. Choosing the right lone worker safety solution can help organisations strengthen staff protection, emergency communication and incident response procedures.
Book a free demo, request a quote, or get answers to your questions:
- Book a Lone Worker Safety Demo →
- Get a No-obligation Quote →
- Contact Us →
- Call us: 0114 399 6000
The Home Office has also published Section 27 statutory guidance to help organisations understand the scope of Martyn’s Law and their responsibilities under the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
Organisations may also find guidance and practical resources through ProtectUK, the UK’s official counter terrorism and protective security platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions for Martyn's Law
What is Martyn’s Law?
Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is UK legislation designed to improve security preparedness at publicly accessible locations and events in response to the threat of terrorism.
Which organisations does Martyn’s Law apply to?
Martyn’s Law applies to certain publicly accessible premises and events, including venues such as entertainment spaces, shopping centres, hospitality venues, transport hubs and other locations where members of the public may gather.
What are the standard and enhanced tiers under Martyn’s Law?
The legislation introduces a tiered approach based on venue capacity:
- Standard tier applies to premises expecting between 200 and 799 individuals.
- Enhanced tier applies to premises and events expecting 800 or more individuals and includes additional security and preparedness requirements.
Does Martyn’s Law apply to lone workers?
While Martyn’s Law focuses on public safety and terrorism preparedness, organisations should also consider how emergency procedures, communication and incident response plans support lone workers and frontline staff who may be more vulnerable during incidents.
When will Martyn’s Law come into force?
Martyn’s Law received Royal Assent in April 2025. The Government has confirmed there will be an implementation period before the legislation is fully enforced, giving organisations time to understand and prepare for their responsibilities.
How can lone worker safety solutions support preparedness?
Lone worker safety solutions can support wider emergency preparedness by helping staff quickly raise alerts, share locations, access support and improve incident response procedures during threatening or rapidly escalating situations.
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