Martyn’s Law (also known as the Protect Duty) is set to transform how venues and event operators across the UK manage security. With the phased rollout starting soon, it’s vital to understand what’s expected of you now, in 2026, and by 2027.
This Martyn’s Law 2025 2026 2027 checklist breaks down the key actions you should take each year to stay compliant and protect the public.
2025: Awareness and Preparation
The first step is awareness. Even before Martyn’s Law becomes fully enforceable, operators should be laying the groundwork.
- Confirm if you qualify
Identify whether your premises or events fall under Martyn’s Law based on size, capacity, and usage. - Nominate a responsible person
Appoint someone with management responsibility to oversee compliance and act as the official point of contact with the Security Industry Authority (SIA). - Carry out a security review
Map out your current procedures (evacuation, communication, crowd management) and identify gaps against Martyn’s Law requirements. - Raise staff awareness
Begin training your team on suspicious activity reporting, emergency evacuation, and public protection principles.
2026: Implementation
By 2026, your preparation should move into action. This is the year to embed formal processes and start demonstrating compliance.
- Standard Duty procedures
Put in place evacuation routes, crowd movement plans, access control, and clear communication systems. - Compliance documentation
Draft a document outlining your procedures and measures. Keep it up to date, and be ready to submit to the SIA. - Enhanced Duty (if required)
For larger venues or qualifying events, introduce monitoring, security checks, and information security processes. - Practical testing
Conduct drills to test your evacuation and communication plans, then refine based on feedback.
2027: Compliance and Review
By 2027, Martyn’s Law will be fully in force. Your role shifts from implementation to proving compliance and maintaining high standards.
- Enhanced Duty compliance
Ensure that monitoring systems, physical security, and information safeguards are operating consistently. - Ongoing updates
Review and update your compliance documentation regularly. Submit revisions to the SIA within 30 days when changes are made. - Annual audits
Carry out internal security audits and risk assessments. Record findings and actions taken to reduce vulnerability. - Be inspection-ready
The SIA will conduct investigations and enforcement. Non-compliance penalties can reach up to £18 million or 5% of global turnover.
Final Thoughts
Martyn’s Law is more than a legal obligation — it’s about protecting lives. By breaking down the process year by year, you can avoid last-minute panic and demonstrate that your venue or event is doing everything “reasonably practicable” to reduce risk.
📌 Use this Martyn’s Law 2025 2026 2027 checklist as a guide:
- 2025 = Preparation
- 2026 = Implementation
- 2027 = Compliance
The earlier you start, the smoother your path to compliance will be.
If you need any further advice on Martyn's Law, or Private Investigator assistance please contact us.
