Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 10 THE door industry journal summer 2024 Industry News Seismic Step Change for Security Beckons It may have missed the preelection Parliamentary ‘wash-up’ but cross-party support behind ‘Martyn’s Law’ means that is likely to progress through the legislative process. The Automatic Door Suppliers Association considers the impact of potential new anti-terrorism legislation to improve venue security and urges the industry and venue owners to start planning now. We live in dangerous times and the reality is, when we consider entrance solutions, our approach must extend beyond dynamic design aesthetics and basic functionality, to higher degrees of safety and security. Earlier this year, a public consultation took place into ‘Martyn’s Law’. This draft legislation is named after Martyn Hett, who was tragically killed alongside 21 others in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack in 2017. Prior to the election being called, feedback from a consultation process was being analysed prior to ascent to Parliament. If made law, The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act will affect organisations, businesses, local and public authorities and individuals who own or operate publicly accessible premises or events. It is likely to have a profound impact on the need for effective entrance solutions for concert halls, stadiums, shopping centres and any other venues with capacity greater than 800. The Act could introduced as early as next year and would require venues to fulfil ‘necessary but proportionate steps’ according to their capacity (based on standard or enhanced tiers) in order to mitigate the impact of a terrorist attack and reduce harm. In addition to the new bill, there remains an existing duty of care for organisations to ensure that employees are not put at risk. So, what might requirements for enhanced entrance solutions mean in practical terms? • Increased Demand for Security Technology: Entrance solutions providers would see a surge in demand for advanced security technologies. This might include biometric scanners, facial recognition systems, or automated threat detection systems to enhance the screening process while maintaining efficiency. • Integration of Comprehensive Security Systems: Venue owners would need to invest in integrated security systems that cover all aspects of entrance control, from ticket validation to threat detection. Entrance solutions would need to seamlessly integrate with surveillance cameras, access control systems and emergency response protocols to provide a holistic security approach. • Adoption of Access Control Measures: Access control measures, such as turnstiles, gates, or barriers, would become more commonplace at venue entrances. These systems would help manage the flow of people while ensuring that only authorised individuals enter the premises. Integration with ticketing systems and ID verification processes would be essential for effective access control.
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