Fit-out sector faces new security design mandates with the introduction of Martyn’s Law

By April Lara

September 18, 2024

Introduction of Martyn's Law

The introduction of Martyn’s Law represents a change in how safety and security are integrated into the built environment, and the fit out sector is at the heart of this transformation.

Named after Martin Hett, a victim of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, the new legislation requires building owners, operators, and contractors to consider and plan for potential terrorist threats. For the fit out sector, this law brings new responsibilities—not just in terms of design, but also in ensuring public safety through robust counter-terrorism measures.

Professionals in the fit out sector are now tasked with incorporating solid counter-terrorism measures whilst preserving their projects' design integrity and functionality.

The law introduces a two-tiered system based on the size and capacity of a building, with enhanced requirements for premises hosting over 800 individuals. This includes implementing evacuation, invacuation, lockdown, communication procedures, and physical security enhancements like barriers, safety glass, and hostile vehicle mitigation.

Designers and planners must integrate these protective security measures with urban design principles. According to the UK government’s guidelines, “When considering appropriate protection against terrorist attack, a challenge for designers and planners is the application of urban design principles whilst incorporating counter-terrorism protective security measures.”

Government guidelines emphasise the importance of avoiding oversensitivity to risk, which can result in “bland and standardised places.” Instead, the goal is to retain or introduce features that attract people to spaces, whilst also integrating security measures. This calls for a nuanced approach that respects the distinctive characteristics of local places. Effective design must include standardised components and purpose-designed solutions, such as incorporating public art or locally essential features.

For example, typical counter-terrorism measures include:

• Better blast resistance: External barriers and blast-resistant materials to mitigate the impact of attacks.
• Better building management facilities: Secure entrances, separated ventilation systems, and robust communication systems.
• Better traffic management: Structural measures to prevent vehicle access and speed reduction measures.
• Better oversight: Clear lines of sight, CCTV, and well-managed access points to boost security and reduce opportunities for suspicious activities.

Martyn’s Law imposes legal obligations on fit out contractors, with penalties ranging from £10,000 for standard premises to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue for enhanced premises.

As Home Office Secretary Yvette Cooper noted, “This legislation will strengthen public safety, help protect staff and the public from terrorism and ensure we learn the lessons from the terrible Manchester Arena attack and the inquiry that followed.”

To meet these requirements, those in the fit out sector should work closely with security experts and building owners, Early involvement in the planning process allows for the seamless integration of security features without compromising design and user experience. For instance, smart technologies like advanced CCTV systems and access control can be integrated into designs to enhance security discreetly.