A school upgrades its audio to help with communication — a readiness idea worth noting

An audio-visual industry site reported that a school has fitted a zoned audio system while preparing for Martyn's Law. A zoned system lets staff send announcements to specific parts of a building rather than everywhere at once. The report frames the work as part of the school's wider readiness, not as something the law currently demands.

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 is not yet in force. Commencement is expected in spring 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. When the duties begin, premises in scope will be expected to think about how they would respond to an incident, including how they get clear instructions to staff and the public. Reliable communication is a sensible part of that thinking, whether that involves a public address system, radios, or simply an agreed plan for who tells whom.

No piece of kit makes a venue compliant, certified or approved, and nothing removes risk. A zoned audio system is one option some sites find useful, but it is not required by the Act and is not a substitute for a clear, practised plan. Treat stories like this as ideas to consider, not as a shopping list.

There is no action you must take yet. You can use this time to familiarise yourself with the Act and to think about how you would communicate during an emergency at your premises. Estimate the maximum number of people who could be present at once, including staff, to see whether you are likely to fall in the standard tier (200 to 799) or enhanced tier (800 or more). Keep watch for confirmed dates and SIA guidance as they are published.