The UK’s protective-security landscape is changing. The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025—widely known as Martyn’s Law—received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 and establishes new duties for certain publicly accessible premises and events.

The legislation is expected to come into force in 2027 following an implementation period. This gives businesses time to establish whether they are in scope, understand their responsibilities and strengthen their operational readiness. Waiting until commencement, however, risks rushed procedures, unclear responsibilities and avoidable security gaps.

What Does Martyn’s Law Require?

Martyn’s Law is intended to improve preparedness for terrorist attacks and reduce the risk of physical harm. Its requirements are proportionate to the number of people reasonably expected to be present at the same time—including employees.

The “responsible person” will generally be the individual or organisation controlling the premises for its relevant use. Businesses should confirm this responsibility rather than assume it automatically belongs to the building owner, tenant or event organiser.

Standard Tier: 200–799 People

Premises where between 200 and 799 people may reasonably be expected at the same time, from time to time, will generally fall within the Standard Tier.

The responsible person must:

• Notify the Security Industry Authority, which will regulate the legislation.
• Establish appropriate public-protection procedures, so far as reasonably practicable.
• Ensure relevant workers understand those procedures and can implement them effectively.

The four procedures identified by the Act are evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication.

Importantly, Standard Tier premises are not automatically required to install physical security measures or employ security guards. The legal emphasis is on proportionate, workable procedures—not expensive equipment or unnecessary complexity.

Enhanced Tier: 800 or More People

Premises that can reasonably expect 800 or more people at the same time, from time to time, will generally fall within the Enhanced Tier. Qualifying public events expecting at least 800 people may also be included when the Act’s other conditions are met.

Enhanced Tier organisations must meet the Standard Tier requirements and, so far as reasonably practicable:

• Implement measures that reduce vulnerability and potential physical harm.
• Document their public-protection procedures and measures.
• Submit the required documentation to the SIA.
• Designate a senior individual to oversee compliance where the responsible person is an organisation.

Relevant measures may include monitoring, CCTV, searches, security patrols, controlled entry, screening, zoned access and physical protection.

Why a Trained Physical Security Presence Matters

Martyn’s Law does not prescribe manned guarding for every premises. Nevertheless, trained security personnel can make protective procedures operational rather than theoretical.

During an emergency, SIA-licensed security officers can help:

• Direct evacuation routes and keep exits clear.
• Support invacuation by moving people away from external danger.
• Implement lockdown procedures and control entry points.
• Communicate instructions to employees, visitors and contractors.
• Monitor CCTV and identify suspicious activity or unattended items.
• Manage crowds, preserve emergency access and assist responding services.
• Record incidents and support post-event reviews.

A security plan is only effective if people understand who makes decisions, how warnings are communicated and what happens when normal access arrangements must change immediately.

Facilities managers should also distinguish between the SIA’s role as the regulator of Martyn’s Law and the licensing of individuals undertaking licensable private-security activities. They are related parts of the security landscape, but they are not the same legal requirement.

Practical Steps for Auditing Your Premises

1. Establish Your Likely Tier

Assess the greatest number of people reasonably expected to be present simultaneously—not simply an average daily attendance. Include employees and consider predictable seasonal or event-related peaks.

2. Confirm Responsibility

Identify the responsible person and document how duties are divided between landlords, occupiers, managing agents, contractors and event organisers.

3. Review the Four Core Procedures

Test evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication arrangements. Procedures should address different threats, accessible evacuation requirements, vulnerable visitors and loss of normal communication systems.

4. Audit Access and Detection

Review entrances, exits, delivery points, contractor controls, keys, passes, visitor records, CCTV coverage, lighting and out-of-hours arrangements. Enhanced Tier sites should assess whether their protective measures are proportionate to their vulnerabilities.

5. Train, Exercise and Record

Brief employees, security officers and relevant contractors. Run practical exercises, record lessons and update procedures when layouts, occupancies or operations change.

Prepare Your Premises Before the Deadline

Security Guards UK provides nationwide, 24/7 SIA-licensed manned guarding, mobile patrols, CCTV monitoring, access control and rapid deployment—with officers available on-site within hours, subject to location and operational availability.

Book a premises security assessment or speak with our 24/7 operations team.

Call 0800 028 1513
Email info@securityguardsuk.com
Visit securityguardsuk.com

This article provides general security information and is not legal advice. Organisations should consult the latest Home Office and SIA guidance when determining their statutory responsibilities.

Official references

• Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025: statutory guidance — GOV.UK
• Martyn’s Law: overview and what you need to know — ProtectUK
• Martyn’s Law: Enhanced Tier — ProtectUK

The post Martyn’s Law and the New Era of UK Premises Security: What Commercial Venues and Facilities Managers Must Know appeared first on Security Guards UK.

Getting maximum benefit from contract security guards requires investing in their success. Here are tips for security companies to boost the value of their contract staff:

Thoroughly Screen Candidates

Rigorously vet applicants to ensure they have the aptitude and temperament to excel in security roles before hiring and assignment.

Provide Extensive Training

Implement comprehensive orientation and site-specific training to equip guards with the skills to effectively serve clients. Update training regularly.

Set Clear Expectations

Provide detailed duty instructions, post orders, procedural manuals, and codes of conduct. Leave no room for variations in expected performance.

Encourage Professionalism

Instill high standards for professional conduct through training on diplomacy, ethics, vigilance, proactive threat detection, and customer service.

Offer Career Growth

Provide advancement opportunities, specialty certifications, and higher credentials to maintain job satisfaction and retention of top guards.

Give Ongoing Support

Check-in regularly, provide mentoring, address concerns, and give guards access to supervisors for guidance to keep them engaged.

The more security firms invest in the success of contract staff, the greater the rewards in performance, professionalism, and service levels for clients. It pays dividends.

The post How to Get the Most Value from Contract Security Staff appeared first on Security Guards UK.

When hiring security guards for your business or property, it’s important to understand their typical duties and responsibilities. This allows you to determine the right security needs and services for your situation. Here’s an overview of the common security guard duties businesses can expect:

Monitoring the Premises

Security guards are continually monitoring the premises both inside and out through regular patrolling and surveillance. They take note of any suspicious activity, safety hazards, or security issues and address them promptly. Active monitoring acts as an effective theft and liability deterrent.

Controlling Access

Guards are responsible for controlling access to the property by validating IDs and credentials, operating security gates/entrances, and allowing only authorized individuals into certain areas. This prevents unauthorized access.

Enforcing Safety Protocols

Security personnel enforce COVID-19 protocols, mask policies, occupancy limits, social distancing, parking rules and any other safety procedures needed to protect occupants. They prevent violations that could lead to fines or lawsuits.

Responding to Emergencies

When an emergency occurs like a medical issue, fire, natural disaster or criminal act, the security team acts quickly to protect life safety. They follow emergency response protocols and provide assistance until first responders arrive.

Visibility and Deterrence

Uniformed guards present a visible, authoritative presence that deters potential criminals. Knowing security is actively patrolling creates a powerful crime and theft deterrent effect for properties.

Documentation and Reporting

Guards closely document all incidents, unusual activities and emergency responses in detail through daily activity reports and logs. These provide a timeline of events for reference.

The post Security Guard Duties: What to Expect appeared first on Security Guards UK.

While security guards provide invaluable protection services, there are legal and practical limits on their roles and capabilities. Understanding what guards can’t do ensures appropriate expectations and utilization of security personnel. Here are some key restrictions:

Make Arrests

Security guards do not have arrest powers except in cases of felony crimes committed directly in front of them. They can detain suspects until police arrive. Trying citizen’s arrests often leads to excessive force allegations. Guards mainly observe and report crimes.

Conduct Searches

Guards cannot conduct searches of people, bags, lockers, cars etc. without consent. Random searches violate constitutional rights. Reasonable suspicion is required. Guards can request to inspect items and deny entry without consent.

Use Excessive Force

Guards must only utilize reasonable force to protect life or prevent substantial property damage. Excessive restraining methods can result in assault charges. Guards should use verbal commands first before any physical intervention.

Interrogate People

Guards lack the authority to interrogate people, attempt to get confessions, or disclose information involuntarily. This constitutes unlawful detention. Questions should relate directly to duties like access control.

Make Traffic Stops

Guards do not have the right to make traffic or vehicle stops unless authorized by the property owner in limited circumstances. This requires extensive extra training.

Ignore Criminal Acts

Guards should never turn a blind eye to crimes in progress or that have already occurred. Failing to address illegal acts can lead to charges of being an accomplice. Guards have a duty to deter and report crime properly.

Breach Confidentiality

Guards must protect the privacy and confidentiality of the property owners. Sharing sensitive information or gossiping about occurrences violates trust. Discretion is key.

By understanding appropriate practices and duties, guards and clients avoid issues down the road. Know the legal guidelines for your jurisdiction.

Enforce policies unrelated to safety/security

Guards cannot enforce company policies like employee productivity, working hours, smoking areas etc. unless directly related to safety and security matters. That responsibility lies with management.

Make medical diagnoses

Guards cannot provide medical opinions or care beyond basic first aid. Only trained medical professionals can make health assessments and deliver patient care.

Investigate crimes extensively

Guards are not investigators. They should interview witnesses and gather basic incident details, but leave in-depth criminal investigations to police.

Have access to personnel files

Due to privacy laws, guards cannot access employee records, health information, or other confidential documentation unrelated to security operations.

Modify operations or processes

Guards cannot modify business workflows, production lines, computer settings, machinery, etc. They protect existing operations rather than changing procedures.

The post What Security Guards Can’t Do: Understanding the Limits appeared first on Security Guards UK.

In today’s uncertain world, security threats can arise when you least expect them. From cyberattacks to workplace violence to theft, businesses face a growing range of risks. Having professional security guards onsite can mitigate these risks and provide invaluable protection. Here’s why you need security guards right now:

Deter Criminal Activity

The presence of trained security guards acts as a strong deterrent against crime. Criminals will think twice before attempting to steal, vandalize property, or gain unauthorized access knowing guards are actively patrolling the premises. Security staff stop threats before they occur.

Fast Emergency Response

Security guards are the first line of defense in any emergency situation like a fire, earthquake, power outage or medical crisis. Their quick response can save lives and minimize damage. Guards are able to take charge of the situation and direct evacuations or lockdowns until first responders arrive.

Enforce Safety Protocols

Guards play a crucial role in enforcing COVID-19 protocols, mask mandates, occupancy limits, social distancing, screening procedures and sanitization measures. This ensures your business remains compliant and that you don’t incur costly fines for violations.

Protect Your Assets

Guards prevent asset loss due to theft, vandalism or other hazards. They control access to sensitive areas while monitoring inventory levels and shipments. Guards protect everything from equipment to documents, keeping your assets secure.

Provide Accountability

Detailed incident reports from security guards provide a timeline of events and accountability. This supports insurance claims if needed. Knowing there is documentation of security protocol enforcement also minimizes liability risks.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – get professional, reliable security staff on board now to fully protect your business, patrons and assets. The return on investment is immense. Contact us today for a customized security solution.

The post Why Use Security Guards on Your Site? appeared first on Security Guards UK.

As a security guard, one of your most important duties is documenting any security incidents that occur during your shift through detailed reports. These reports create a record of events and are crucial for any potential investigations or insurance claims. Follow these tips to write effective security incident reports:

Stick to Just the Facts:

The security incident report should focus on only the factual details of what happened. You’ll want to describe the incident in an objective, neutral tone without inserting personal opinions or judgements. Let the facts speak for themselves.

Record Key Details:

You must be thorough and specific when recording information like the date, time, location, weather conditions, names of people involved, witness accounts, security camera footage, etc. Precise, accurate details are vital. Leave no stone unturned.

Describe Clearly What Happened:

Walk through the incident from start to finish in chronological order. Use clear, simple language to explain what exactly occurred, what actions you took, and other relevant events surrounding the incident. If procedures weren’t followed, make note.

Use Visual Aids:

Include diagrams, photos, video evidence, or maps to give all parties a clear visual understanding of the security incident and scene. These aids enhance the written description.

Follow Company Protocol:

Check your employer’s guidelines for what needs to be included and the proper format. Tailor your report to meet company standards and procedures for optimum compliance. Have a supervisor review it.

Proofread Thoroughly:

You must always proofread your security incident report multiple times before submitting it. Double check for any spelling/grammar errors and ensure all handwriting is legible. The report should be 100% accurate and readable.

By taking the time to create a clear, factual, detailed account of any security incidents, you’ll establish your credibility and professionalism as a guard. Well-written reports can make a big difference if matters are escalated to legal action down the road.

The post How to Write a High-Quality Security Incident Report appeared first on Security Guards UK.

Security work is a critical component of maintaining safety and security in public and private settings. In this line of work, communication and teamwork are essential to achieving optimal results. Effective communication and teamwork enable security personnel to work together seamlessly and respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently.

Here are some reasons why communication and teamwork are crucial in security work:

Improved Response to Emergencies

In emergency situations, the ability to communicate quickly and effectively is vital. When security personnel are working together as a team, they can coordinate their efforts, respond promptly to threats, and take action to minimise damage or prevent injuries. Effective communication allows team members to share vital information and ensure everyone is on the same page, making it easier to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively.

Enhanced Risk Management

Effective communication and teamwork can significantly reduce the risk of security incidents. By working together, security personnel can identify potential risks and develop strategies to minimise them. This proactive approach to risk management is essential to maintaining a safe and secure environment.

Increased Efficiency

When security personnel work together, they can complete tasks more efficiently. With clear communication and defined roles, team members can work in sync, completing tasks quickly and accurately. This increased efficiency enables security personnel to be more effective, ensuring the safety and security of those around them.

Improved Customer Service

In addition to maintaining safety and security, security personnel often interact with customers or the public. Effective communication skills are vital in these interactions, allowing security personnel to provide exceptional customer service. Clear communication ensures customers receive accurate information and understand what is happening in any given situation, improving their overall experience.

Enhanced Training and Development

Effective communication and teamwork are critical in training and development programmes for security personnel. By working together, security personnel can share their knowledge and experiences, allowing others to learn and grow. Communication is essential in this context, as it allows team members to ask questions, provide feedback, and receive guidance, leading to ongoing improvement and development.

All in all, Communication and teamwork are essential in security work. Effective communication and teamwork enable security personnel to work together seamlessly, respond quickly to emergencies, manage risks proactively, improve efficiency, provide excellent customer service, and enhance training and development. By prioritising communication and teamwork, security personnel can maintain a safe and secure environment for everyone.

The post The importance of communication and teamwork in security work appeared first on Security Guards UK.

As a security guard, you are often at the forefront of dealing with various situations, including instances of aggressive behaviour and verbal abuse. It is essential to handle these situations calmly and professionally while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all involved. In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to effectively manage and diffuse such incidents. By employing these techniques, you can enhance your ability to maintain a safe and secure environment.

Remain Calm and Composed:

When faced with aggressive behaviour or verbal abuse, it is vital to remain calm and composed. Remember that your primary goal is to de-escalate the situation and ensure everyone’s safety. Take deep breaths, maintain a neutral posture, and speak in a calm and measured tone. By projecting a sense of calmness, you can help defuse the tension and encourage the person to calm down.

Active Listening:

One effective strategy for managing aggressive behaviour is to actively listen to the person expressing anger or frustration. Give them your full attention and demonstrate empathy by acknowledging their feelings. Show that you are interested in understanding their perspective, which can help to alleviate their frustration.

Use Verbal De-escalation Techniques:

Verbal de-escalation techniques can help prevent a situation from escalating further. Begin by addressing the person respectfully, using their name if known, and maintaining a non-confrontational stance. Use open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and allow them to express themselves. Avoid interrupting or arguing with the person, as it may exacerbate the situation.

Maintain Personal Boundaries:

While dealing with aggressive behavior, it is crucial to maintain personal boundaries. Stand at an appropriate distance to ensure your safety and create a sense of personal space for both parties involved. Be aware of your body language, keeping a relaxed posture while maintaining a position that allows you to react quickly if necessary.

Request Assistance:

If the situation continues to escalate or if you feel threatened, it is essential to request backup or assistance from your colleagues or supervisors. They can provide support and help ensure everyone’s safety. Remember, there is no shame in seeking assistance when dealing with challenging or potentially dangerous situations.

Document the Incident:

After an incident involving aggressive behaviour or verbal abuse, it is crucial to document the details of the event. Write down the date, time, location, individuals involved, and a thorough description of what occurred. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence if further action or intervention is required.

Seek Support and Training:

Dealing with aggressive behaviour and verbal abuse can be emotionally challenging. It is essential to seek support from your colleagues, supervisors, or professional counselling services if needed. Additionally, consider participating in specialized training programs that provide strategies and techniques for handling difficult situations. Enhancing your skills will better equip you to handle future incidents effectively.

As a security guard, dealing with aggressive behaviour and verbal abuse is a part of your responsibility. By following these tips, you can enhance your ability to manage these challenging situations in a professional and effective manner. Remember to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals involved, employ de-escalation techniques, and seek assistance when necessary. With the right approach and ongoing training, you can create a safer environment and contribute to a positive and secure atmosphere.

Get in touch today for a FREE and no-obligation consultation with one of our security experts. You can call us on 0333 696 4809 or email us with your enquiry to info@securityguardsuk.com.

Please visit our portfolio page for a list of companies we are currently working with.

For information on some of the other services we provide, please take a look at our services page or our downloadable e-brochure

The post Tips for Dealing with Aggressive Behaviour and Verbal Abuse: A Guide for Security Guards appeared first on Security Guards UK.

The post Why Hire A Security Guard appeared first on Security Guards UK.

The post Get Your FREE Security Guards UK Warning Boards appeared first on Security Guards UK.