Embracing Technology for Safer Venues: How Digital Signage Supports Martyn’s Law 

Aug 6, 2025

Martyn’s Law – formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill – is set to come into effect in 2026, introducing a legal duty for venue operators to improve public safety through preparedness and protective security measures. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the legislation brings new obligations for venues to assess risk, plan for emergencies, train staff and communicate effectively during critical situations.

At Uniguest, we’re exploring how our portfolio of integrated visual engagement technologies – from digital signage and IPTV to enterprise video and room booking – can support venue operators in addressing these evolving responsibilities in a practical, scalable and effective way.

 

Real-Time Messaging and Dynamic Crowd Control

Emergency Exit Screen - Martyns LawIn a crisis, timing and clarity are everything. Uniguest’s digital signage and IPTV platforms allow venue teams to instantly override regular content with emergency messages and dynamic evacuation instructions. Whether it’s directing crowds to the safest exits or triggering location-specific content from a connected alarm or building management system, the goal is to deliver clear, timely information where it matters most.

Through integration with third-party systems – including fire alarms, access controls and crowd sensors – signage can adapt dynamically based on real-time data. This might mean displaying alternative routes if one becomes congested, issuing targeted alerts in certain zones or showing evacuation guidance in multiple languages via automated subtitle translations.

 

Preparing Staff with Bite-Sized, Auditable Training

Emergency Exit Training - Martyn's LawOne of the core requirements of Martyn’s Law is to train staff on how to respond in the event of an incident. Yet in venues that rely on part-time, casual or transient workforces – such as stadiums, theatres or festivals – delivering consistent, trackable training can be challenging.

That’s where Uniguest’s eStream platform comes in. Venue operators can deliver essential training in the form of short video modules that staff can access remotely on any device. Embedded quizzes, feedback forms and audit trails ensure engagement is measurable and compliant. This not only supports preparedness but builds confidence across the wider team – even those who might only work one shift a week.

 

Raising Awareness Without Inducing Panic

Venue Safety Signage - Martyn's LawMartyn’s Law also encourages venues to promote vigilance among staff and the public, without causing unnecessary alarm. Through digital signage, venues can run discreet, low-key messaging campaigns – for example: “If you see something suspicious, please speak to a steward,” or “Be alert. Report concerns.”

In more advanced configurations, screens can even act as part of a covert alert system, using predefined visual codes to communicate sensitive messages to staff during potential threats – such as switching to a particular image or video file that quietly signals a lockdown protocol.

 

Integration, Interoperability and Resilience

As venues increase their reliance on digital tools, integration and reliability become critical. Uniguest systems are designed to work in tandem with wider security infrastructure, offering flexible API connectivity to fire panels, cameras, access control, building management and more.

We also build in failover and redundancy options – so content delivery continues even if part of the network goes down. This ensures that emergency messages can still be triggered and displayed without delay – maintaining compliance and public safety when it matters most.

 

Supporting Compliance and Audit Trails

Venue operators will need to demonstrate compliance with Martyn’s Law. With Uniguest, every message, update and training session can be tracked – creating a digital paper trail of preparedness. From signage usage reports and alert delivery logs to e-learning completion records, our platform helps you back up your commitment with real evidence.

 

A Consultative Partner, Not Just a Vendor

Martyn’s Law is still evolving – and so are the needs of the venues affected by it. As a vendor deeply embedded in the venue, stadium and public event sectors, we understand the importance of working collaboratively, not prescriptively.

We’re not here to offer a one-size-fits-all solution – but rather to help operators tailor digital engagement tools that enhance their emergency readiness strategies in line with proportionate risk assessments and operational realities.

 

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re a head of operations, facilities or security exploring how your venue can prepare for Martyn’s Law, we’d be happy to talk. Our team can walk you through how integrated signage, IPTV and enterprise video solutions can complement your wider preparedness plan, helping you meet both the spirit and letter of the new legislation.

Get in touch – let’s start the conversation.

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