The UK legal framework

Martyn's Law — Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 ↗

Named after Martyn Hett, killed in the Manchester Arena bombing. All venues with a capacity of 200+ must have documented procedures and staff trained to protect the public in the event of a terrorist attack. Venues of 800+ (Tier 2) face enhanced duties including a formal security plan. Enforcement begins 2027 — but venues are expected to prepare now.

The Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds (Green Guide) — 6th Edition ↗

The authoritative technical guide for sports grounds, referenced by law for licensed football stadia. Sets out principles for capacity calculations, spectator flow, crush barriers, sightlines and emergency evacuation — many principles are adopted more widely for large events.

The Purple Guide — Health, Safety and Welfare at Music and Other Events ↗

The industry standard guide for music festivals and outdoor events, produced by the Events Industry Forum. Covers crowd management, barriers, stewarding ratios, medical provision and emergency planning. Referenced by local authorities when granting event licences.

Licensing Act 2003 & Local Authority Licensing ↗

Events with a premises licence or temporary event notice (TEN) must meet conditions set by the local licensing authority under four objectives: public safety, prevention of crime and disorder, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children. Crowd management plans are a standard licence condition for large events.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 & Management Regulations 1999

Event organisers are employers (or duty-holders) under HSWA — they must assess and control risks to workers and members of the public. A suitable and sufficient risk assessment covering crowd dynamics, entry/exit flow and emergency procedures is a legal requirement.

Key numbers

200+

capacity threshold for Martyn's Law basic tier — procedures + trained staff required

800+

enhanced tier — formal security plan and higher training obligations

2027

Martyn's Law enforcement date — venues must be compliant by then

500+

approximate capacity at which a Purple Guide crowd management plan is expected

Informational summary only — not legal advice. Always verify your obligations with your local licensing authority, the Security Industry Authority and qualified legal counsel. Sources: UK Government (gov.uk), Events Industry Forum (thepurpleguide.co.uk), legislation.gov.uk.

Festival & Crowd Safety — aligned with UK law

Study the lesson, pass the assessment and get a verifiable certificate. Designed for event staff and venue teams in the UK, with direct reference to Martyn's Law, the Purple Guide and UK licensing requirements.

Start the certificate →

B2B & Organizer Solution

Certify & Track Your Whole Event Crew

Streamline crowd safety compliance for your venue or festival. Get bulk crew onboarding, live team completion tracking, and instant CSV exports for licensing authorities.