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.