What does Martyn's Law mean for you and how will it shape the future of event security?

• Two-Tier Security: Martyn’s Law sets up security tiers based on venue size.

• Enhanced Staff Training: Expect more prepared and trained event staff. 

• Advanced Emergency Plans: Events will have well-rehearsed plans for emergencies.

• New Technology for Safety: More festivals will use high-tech solutions like AI-powered surveillance, drones for crowd monitoring.

• Clear Communication: Festival organizers will keep you informed about security steps, including pre-event details, on-site info points, and regular updates to ensure attendees understand and feel safe with the enhanced security measures.

 Why Security Matters More Than Ever

 In 2023 19.2 million music fans attended live music events in the UK.

Past Attacks

Bataclan Theatre attack, Paris (2015): Part of a coordinated terrorist attack in Paris, where 90 people were killed at the Bataclan during a concert.

Ariana Grande concert, Manchester (2017) As people were leaving the Manchester Arena, a suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device resulting in 23 deaths (including the bomber). Of those killed, 20 died at the scene and three died shortly after arriving in hospital.

Isle Of Wight Festival, (2022) A 16-year-old was sentenced to seven years in prison for plotting a terror attack at the Isle of Wight Festival[5].

Nova Music Festival, Israel (2023): On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants attacked the Tribe of Nova Trance music festival near Kibbutz Re'im in southern Israel, killing at least 260 people and taking an undetermined number of hostages.

Taylor Swift Concert Threat, Austria (2023): In August 2023, Austrian authorities thwarted a potential ISIS-inspired attack targeting Taylor Swift's Eras Tour concerts in Vienna. Three suspects were arrested, and the concerts were cancelled.

What is the current threat?

• Since 2017, the UK has faced 15 domestic terror attacks, with an additional 43 late-stage plots being disrupted by security services[3].

• The threat picture is described as complex, evolving, and enduring, with terrorists targeting a wide range of locations[3].

• Public spaces, including music venues and festivals, have unfortunately become potential targets for those seeking to cause harm.

The Two Tiers of Martyn's Law

Martyn's Law introduces a two-tiered system for public venues and events, based on their capacity:

1. Standard Tier (200-799 people):

   • Applies to smaller venues and events

   • Focuses on simple yet effective security measures

   • Estimated annual compliance cost: £330 per business[3]

2. Enhanced Tier (800+ people):

   • Covers larger venues and events, including most music festivals

   • Requires more comprehensive security measures

   • Potential fines for non-compliance: up to £18 million or 5% of worldwide revenue[2]

Standard Tier Requirements

For smaller events falling under the standard tier, the focus is on implementing practical, low-cost security measures:

• Training staff to lock doors and identify safe routes in case of an emergency

• Developing and maintaining simple security policies and procedures

• Focusing on staff preparedness and response rather than physical security measures[1][4]

• Closing shutters when necessary[1][2][4]

• Notifying a regulatory body and establishing public safety protocols to minimize risks in case of an attack[3]

It's important to note that there is no requirement for standard tier premises to put in place physical measures or purchase additional equipment[4]. The aim is to improve staff preparedness and responses in a cost-effective manner.

Enhanced Tier Requirements

Music festivals, given their large scale, will typically fall under the enhanced tier. This means organizers will need to:

1. Notify the regulatory body about the event

2. Conduct a thorough terrorism risk assessment

3. Create and maintain a detailed security document

4. Implement "reasonably practicable" measures to reduce the risk of a terrorist attack and potential physical harm

5. Appoint a designated senior individual responsible for security (if the organizer is a corporate body)[2][4]

Specific measures for enhanced tier events may include:

• Installing CCTV systems

• Hiring additional security personnel

• Developing and maintaining comprehensive security plans and procedures

• Training staff on advanced security protocols and emergency response[1][4]

How Martyn's Law Will Transform Your Festival Experience

Now that we've covered the nuts and bolts of Martyn's Law, let's explore how these changes will directly impact your festival-going experience.

1. Enhanced Security Measures

Expect to see a more visible and comprehensive security presence at festivals. This may include:

• Increased number of trained security personnel

• More sophisticated CCTV systems for better monitoring

• Enhanced bag checks and potentially the use of metal detectors

• Clearly marked emergency exits and evacuation routes

2. Staff Training and Preparedness

Festival staff will be better equipped to handle potential security threats:

• Security personnel will receive specialized training in threat detection and response

• All staff members, including vendors and volunteers, will likely undergo basic security awareness training

• Clear communication channels will be established for quick response to any incidents

3. Improved Emergency Response Plans

Festivals will have more robust and well-rehearsed emergency response plans:

• Detailed procedures for various scenarios, from medical emergencies to potential terror threats

• Regular drills and simulations to ensure staff are prepared

• Better coordination with local emergency services

4. Technological Advancements

Expect to see cutting-edge technology employed for your safety:

• Possible implementation of AI-powered surveillance systems for crowd monitoring

• Use of drones for aerial surveillance of large festival grounds

• Mobile apps with real-time security updates and emergency information for attendees

5. Transparent Communication

Festival organizers will likely be more proactive in communicating security measures:

• Pre-event communications detailing what to expect in terms of security checks

• On-site information points dedicated to security queries

• Regular announcements and updates throughout the event

The Impact on Different Festival Aspects

Let's break down how Martyn's Law will affect various aspects of the festival experience:

Entry and Exit Points

• Expect more thorough but efficient security checks at entrances

• Multiple exit points will be clearly marked and staffed

• Potential implementation of timed entry systems to manage crowd flow

Camping Areas

• Enhanced security patrols in camping zones

• Improved lighting and surveillance in these areas

• Stricter rules on what can be brought into camping areas

Main Arena and Stages

• Increased security presence around stages and high-traffic areas

• Better crowd management systems to prevent overcrowding

• Enhanced emergency evacuation procedures specific to each area

Food and Vendor Areas

• Vendors will likely undergo more rigorous security checks

• Improved layout to ensure clear pathways and avoid bottlenecks

• Potential restrictions on certain types of equipment or setups

VIP and Backstage Areas

• Stricter access controls and credential checks

• Enhanced security measures for artist and crew areas

• Improved communication systems between front-of-house and backstage security teams

Preparing for Your Festival Experience Under Martyn's Law

Now that you're up to speed on what to expect, here's how you can prepare for a safe and enjoyable festival experience in the era of Martyn's Law:

1. Stay Informed

• Follow the festival's official channels for security updates

• Familiarize yourself with the event's specific security policies before attending

• Be prepared for potentially longer entry times due to enhanced security checks

2. Pack Smart

• Check the festival's prohibited items list, which may be more extensive under new regulations

• Consider bringing only essential items to speed up security checks

• Choose clear bags if allowed, as they can expedite the entry process

3. Be Vigilant

• Stay alert to your surroundings without compromising your enjoyment

• Report any suspicious activities or unattended items to security personnel

• Trust your instincts – if something feels off, don't hesitate to speak up

4. Know the Layout

• Familiarize yourself with the festival map, noting emergency exits and medical tents

• Establish meeting points with your group in case you get separated

• Take note of security stations and information points throughout the venue

5. Stay Connected

• Keep your phone charged and consider bringing a portable charger

• Save important contact numbers, including the festival's emergency hotline

• Consider downloading the festival's official app for real-time updates and alerts

• Watch out for our new app. Which will have real time alerts. You can see the app features here.

The Bigger Picture: Why Martyn's Law Matters

While enhanced security measures might seem like an inconvenience at first glance, it's important to understand the broader implications of Martyn's Law:

1. Setting a New Standard: By implementing these measures, the UK is setting a global benchmark for event security.

2. Proactive Approach: Martyn's Law shifts the focus from reactive to proactive security planning.

3. Industry-Wide Impact: These regulations will lead to improved safety standards across all types of public events, not just music festivals.

4. Public Awareness: The law helps raise awareness about the importance of event security among attendees.

5. Continuous Improvement: As the law is implemented, expect ongoing refinements based on real-world experiences and emerging threats.

Challenges and Considerations for Festival Organizers

While Martyn's Law promises to enhance safety, it also presents some challenges for festival organizers:

1. Cost Implications: Implementing new security measures can be expensive, especially for smaller events. Organizers will need to balance safety requirements with financial viability.

2. Logistics and Planning: Enhanced security measures may require significant changes to event layouts and operational procedures.

3. Staff Training: Ensuring all staff members are adequately trained in new security protocols will be a substantial undertaking.

4. Technology Integration: Implementing new security technologies may require significant infrastructure upgrades.

5. Balancing Security and Atmosphere: Organizers will need to find ways to maintain the festive atmosphere while implementing stricter security measures.

The Role of Festival-Goers in Enhancing Security

As attendees, we also play a crucial role in maintaining a safe festival environment. Here's how you can contribute:

1. Follow Guidelines: Adhere to all security guidelines and instructions provided by the festival organizers.

2. Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something unusual, report it to security personnel immediately.

3. Look Out for Others: Keep an eye on your friends and fellow festival-goers. If someone seems in distress, alert staff or security.

4. Stay Sober and Aware: While festivals are about having fun, staying relatively sober helps you remain aware of your surroundings.

5. Provide Feedback: After the event, provide constructive feedback to organizers about your security experience. This can help improve future events.

The Future of Festival Security

As Martyn's Law continues to be debated and refined, we can expect to see ongoing evolution in festival security. Some potential future developments might include:

1. Biometric Entry Systems: Advanced facial recognition or fingerprint scanning for quicker, more secure entry.

2. AI-Powered Threat Detection: Machine learning algorithms that can identify potential threats in real-time.

3. Integrated Emergency Response: Seamless coordination between event security, local police, and emergency services.

4. Virtual Reality Training: Using VR to provide more realistic security training scenarios for staff.

5. Blockchain for Secure Ticketing: Reducing fraud and enhancing crowd control through blockchain-based ticketing systems.

Embracing the Future 

As we give you an insight into Martyn's Law and its impact on live events, remember that these changes are all about ensuring you can create amazing memories without worry. The spirit of music, the joy, the camaraderie, the unforgettable performances – remains unchanged. What's changing is the level of protection and organization behind the scenes.

So, as you plan your concert, show or festival, do so with the confidence that event organizers are working harder than ever, so that you can be safe in a more secure environment.

Stay safe, and live for the moments.

Citations:

[1] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/martyns-law-introduced-to-parliament-to-better-protect-the-public-from-terrorism 

[2] https://www.aeo.org.uk/martyns-law

 [3] https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2024/09/13/martyns-law-factsheet/

 [4] https://www.protectuk.police.uk/martyns-law/martyns-law-overview-and-what-you-need-know

 [5] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-68817431

 [6] https://ntia.co.uk/martyns-law-introduced-to-parliament-to-better-protect-the-public-from-terrorism/

[7]https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/sep/12/martyns-law-terror-safety-plans-venues-200-plus-capacity

 [8] https://www.aev.org.uk/resources/martyns-law [9]https://laceyssolicitors.co.uk/2023/04/19/martyns-law-guidance-for-event-organisers/