The new Martyn’s Law legislation will make it statutory duty for the owners and operators of publicly accessible locations (PALs) to protect the public from terrorist attacks and ensure that they are well prepared to respond to an incident.
From where does Martyn’s Law derive?
The Government introduced new legislation across the UK and Northern Ireland last year, in response to significant terror attacks. This is known as Protect Duty or Martyn’s Law after a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, Martyn Hett.
Who does it apply to?
The Home Office believes this legislation could impact approximately 650,000 businesses in three primary locations:
- Public venues with a capacity of 100 persons or more
- Large organisations that employ 250 staff or more
- Public locations including event organisers using these spaces
The new legislation will likely identify a Duty Holder (the owner or operator) who holds organisational responsibility and control over the premises or location. Where there is shared responsibility, the parties will need to work together to ensure the legislation requirements are met.
What will the requirements be?
Martyn’s Law will likely involve inspections. This approach has been suggested to educate, advise and ensure compliance, with financial penalties for those that are not compliant. If a terrorist incident occurs and lives are lost, Duty Holders could be prosecuted under the Corporate Homicide or Corporate Manslaughter Act. Be prepared for this legislation coming into place.
Previously BHIB Insurance Brokers, Clear Insurance Management is part of The Clear Group. The group combines proven specialist knowledge to offer a range of insurance solutions for both residential and commercial property.
Contact Clear on 01604 258838 or email enquiries@thecleargroup.com and ask them to review your policy wording to ensure your cover is sufficient under Martyn’s Law legislation.
For more information regarding how Martyn’s Law affects your business, visit the Government website.
