What is Martyn’s Law, and why is it crucial for the glazing industry?

This informal CPD article, ‘What is Martyn’s Law, and why is it crucial for the glazing industry?, was provided by Glass Aftercare, one of the leading commercial glazing specialists in the UK, with 150 years’ combined glass and glazing industry experience covering everything from maintenance to consultancy.

Legal requirements for all industries are ever changing and the glazing sector is no exception. Keeping up to date with developments is vital to make sure you’re meeting all obligations and – crucially – that your clients and colleagues are safe.

Diligent facilities management specialists must be aware of the legislation that affects them, most recently Martyn’s Law: an important safety law that protects people in public venues. To consider the full impact of your obligations, you must understand the law and what to do, when and why to secure the future of your façade and your reputation.

What is Martyn’s Law?

The Protect Duty, set by the UK government, is part of a new law increasing preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks. Known as Martyn’s Law in tribute to Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 22 people, it will ensure everyone in the UK is better protected against the ongoing and ever-changing threat of terrorism.

The law will include statutory guidance, support and training to improve the security of public venues. It is expected to become a legal requirement in the immediate future, so businesses must not only be aware of the changes, but immediately prepared to implement them.

How does the law affect the glazing sector?

With the law set to come into force imminently, facilities management companies must consider the required glazing upgrades. This should be either as part of their upcoming planned maintenance, or they should undertake repair and replacement now to reduce risks.

To make sure you’re future proofing your compliance and reputation, there are key parts of the law to consider:

Technical elements

Carefully assess your use of bulletproof and/or blast-resistant glass, or bomb-resistant film. Requirements change according to venue, but your glass must be able to withstand high impacts, such as bomb blasts.

Legal compliance

Failure to comply with any law has cost implications. Therefore, it’s crucial to avoid penalties, which can be significant. Meeting your legal obligations also demonstrates sector-wide collaboration and commitment to industry best practices.

Reputation management

Facilities managers must thoroughly safeguard staff and visitors, and updating glazing across building envelopes company-wide ensures the needs of Martyn’s Law are met. It also instils confidence in customers that you’re up to date with the latest health and safety regulations and that you prioritise your social responsibilities at all times.

Martyn’s Law applies to all public spaces, yet the requirements vary widely according to the size and scope of your business and building. From updating plans to putting new measures in place, needs are different – but no less vital – to future proof your building and your brand reputation.

We hope you found this article helpful. For more information from Glass Aftercare, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.