Bomb blast window film

Martyn's Law and Bomb Blast Window Film

Helping businesses and public venues prepare for a safer future

With the introduction of Martyn's Law approaching, organisations across the UK are reviewing how they protect their premises, employees and visitors.

From understanding the new legislation to exploring practical security improvements, preparing your premises is an important part of creating a safer environment.

At Signs Express, we offer a range of signage and window film solutions that can support your wider safety and security plans, including specialist bomb blast window film designed to help reduce the risks associated with shattered glass.

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What is Martyn's Law?

Martyn's Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is UK legislation designed to improve public safety and preparedness in the event of a terrorist attack.

Named in memory of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 people who lost their lives in the Manchester Arena attack in 2017, the legislation aims to ensure that certain public premises and events have appropriate procedures and, where required, protective measures in place.

The law introduces a proportionate approach to security, with different responsibilities depending on the type of premises and the number of people reasonably expected to be present.

Its purpose is to encourage organisations to consider potential threats, prepare for emergencies and take appropriate steps to reduce the risk of harm.

When does Martyn's Law come into effect?

Martyn's Law received Royal Assent on 3 April 2025 and is expected to come into force in spring 2027, although an exact implementation date has not yet been confirmed.

The implementation period gives organisations time to understand their responsibilities, review existing security arrangements and consider whether any improvements may be necessary.

Although compliance is not yet legally required, businesses and organisations that may fall within the legislation can begin familiarising themselves with the official guidance and preparing for the changes ahead.

Who does Martyn's Law apply to?

Martyn's Law applies to certain premises and events where large numbers of people may gather. The requirements depend on the use of the premises and the number of people reasonably expected to be present at the same time, including staff.

Examples of premises that may fall within scope include:

  • Entertainment venues, theatres and concert halls

  • Shopping centres and larger retail premises

  • Hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues

  • Sports stadiums and leisure facilities

  • Educational establishments

  • Healthcare facilities

  • Museums, galleries and visitor attractions

Not every business or venue within these sectors will automatically be covered. Eligibility depends on the specific criteria set out in the legislation.

Understanding the two tiers of Martyn's Law

Standard tier - 200-799 People

Premises in this category must have appropriate public protection procedures in place, so far as reasonably practicable. These focus on how staff respond to potential attacks, including evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication.

Physical security upgrades are not a specific requirement of the standard tier.

Enhanced tier - 800+ People

Larger qualifying premises and events have additional responsibilities. Alongside public protection procedures, they must consider and implement reasonably practicable measures to reduce their vulnerability to terrorist attacks and the risk of physical harm.

Depending on the premises and identified risks, these measures may include physical security improvements.

What is bomb blast window film?

Bomb blast window film, also known as blast mitigation film or anti-shatter security film, is a specialist film applied to glazing to help reduce the dangers associated with flying glass.

During an explosion, glass fragments can pose a serious risk to people inside buildings. Blast mitigation film is designed to help hold broken glass together, reducing the potential for dangerous fragments to scatter.

It can be applied to suitable existing glazing, offering a potential retrofit solution for organisations looking to improve their building's protective security without necessarily replacing all their windows.

The level of protection depends on the film specification, the existing glazing, the window framing and the installation method. Specialist assessment is important to determine the suitability of a particular solution.

How can bomb blast window film support your security plans?

Where glazing is identified as a potential vulnerability, specialist window film may provide several benefits.

  • Reduce the risk from flying glass: Specialist film can help retain shattered glass and reduce the potential for fragments to enter occupied areas during a blast.

  • Improve existing glazing: Suitable film systems can offer a retrofit option for existing windows where complete glazing replacement may not be practical.

  • Maintain natural light: Clear film options can help preserve visibility and natural light without significantly changing the appearance of your premises.

  • Support a wider protective security strategy: Where appropriate, glazing mitigation can be considered alongside emergency procedures, access controls and other measures identified through a security assessment.

Is bomb blast window film required under Martyn's Law?

No. Martyn's Law does not specifically require the installation of bomb blast window film.

However, organisations within the enhanced tier must consider reasonably practicable measures to reduce their vulnerability to terrorist attacks and minimise potential harm.

For premises with extensive glazing, bomb blast window film may be one option worth exploring as part of a wider security assessment.

It is important to remember that installing window film alone does not demonstrate compliance with Martyn's Law. Any protective measures should be appropriate to the individual premises and the risks identified.

How can Signs Express help?

At Signs Express, we understand that every premises has different requirements when it comes to safety, security and accessibility.

With a nationwide network of signage and graphics specialists, we can help organisations explore practical solutions to support their building safety plans.

Our solutions include:

Bomb blast window film

Specialist glazing films designed to help mitigate the risks associated with shattered glass. Our team can discuss your requirements and establish the availability of suitable products and installation services.

Safety and emergency signage

Clear, visible signage to help communicate important safety information, identify emergency exits and support effective navigation throughout your premises.

Wayfinding and directional signage

Well-planned wayfinding systems that help visitors and employees navigate buildings, locate key facilities and identify designated routes.

Window graphics and manifestations

Glazing graphics and manifestations that improve glass visibility, support accessibility and help create safer environments for building users.

Whether you're reviewing an existing building or planning improvements to your premises, Signs Express can help you explore signage and glazing solutions suited to your needs.

Prepare your premises with Signs Express

Understanding your responsibilities under Martyn's Law is an important first step towards improving the safety and preparedness of your premises.

If you're considering bomb blast window film, safety signage or other building graphics, our team is here to discuss your requirements and help you explore the options available.

Contact your local Signs Express centre to find out more about our signage and window film solutions.

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