Moving Beyond Single Points of Failure
Martyn’s Law encourages venues and event organisers to take reasonable and proportionate measures to improve safety.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through layered security.
Rather than relying on a single method of verification, layered security combines multiple checks to reduce risk and improve control.
The Limitations of Single Checks
Many environments still rely on a single form of access control, such as:
- Visual inspection of passes
- Static credentials
- Manual entry processes
While these methods provide a level of control, they are vulnerable to:
- Human error
- Pass sharing
- Forged or duplicated credentials
- Tailgating
This creates a single point of failure within the system.
What Is Layered Security
Layered security introduces multiple levels of verification to strengthen access control.
In a typical event environment, this may include:
- A physical credential such as a pass or wristband
- Visual confirmation of identity
- A digital scan or verification point
Each layer supports the next, making it significantly harder for unauthorised individuals to gain access.
Supporting Reasonable and Proportionate Measures
The concept of layered security aligns closely with the principles of Martyn’s Law.
It is:
- Practical to implement
- Scalable across different environments
- Effective at reducing risk
Importantly, it does not require excessive or complex infrastructure. It can be adapted based on the size and nature of the event.
You can explore broader protective security guidance here:
https://www.protectuk.police.uk
Addressing Real-World Risks
Layered security helps mitigate common issues seen across events and venues, including:
- Pass sharing between individuals
- Access to restricted or back-of-house areas
- Movement between zones without authorisation
- Individuals bypassing entry controls
By introducing multiple checks, these risks become significantly harder to exploit.
A Scalable Approach
Layered security is flexible.
Smaller venues may implement simple combinations of checks, while larger events can introduce more structured systems with additional verification points.
This ensures that measures remain proportionate while still improving safety.
Conclusion
Relying on a single check creates unnecessary risk.
Layered security removes single points of failure and strengthens overall control.
Under Martyn’s Law, this approach represents a practical and effective way to improve preparedness and reduce vulnerability.
Pass. Face. Scan.