5.1 Purpose of a Basic Security Plan
The security plan is a key deliverable for both Standard and Enhanced Tier premises. It consolidates preparedness, identifies vulnerabilities and documents your mitigation strategy. It must be practical, proportionate and tailored to your specific setting.
Your plan does not need to be complex or lengthy, it should be clear, accessible and regularly reviewed. However, a separate assessment must be made for every event held.
Core Components:
- Premises overview and event profile
- Identified threats and vulnerabilities
- Proportionate security measures
- Emergency response actions
- Roles and responsibilities
5.2 Risk Identification
Common threats include:
- Suspicious packages or items
- Hostile vehicle attacks
- Marauding terrorist attacks (e.g. with knives or firearms)
- Unauthorised access or suspicious behaviour (including Cyber threats)
- Insider threat (e.g: staff or suppliers)
Site-specific risks might include:
- Proximity to high-profile targets
- Access points that are difficult to secure
- Limited staff coverage at key times
Tools for Risk Identification:
- Walkthrough assessments
- Staff consultation
- Local police or CTSA input
- Use of the Risk Assessment Template
5.3 Risk Appetite and Reasonable & Practical Measures
Not every risk can be eliminated. The aim of the Responsible Person is to reduce foreseeable risks to a level that is reasonable and practical. This concept is a central tenet of Martyn’s Law and applies to both planning and implementation.
Risk Appetite
- Defines the level of residual risk your organisation is willing to tolerate
- Should reflect the nature of your premises, visitor profile and operational capacity
- Informs decisions such as whether additional barriers, checks, or staff are required
Reasonable and Practical means:
- Measures are proportionate to the size and function of the venue / event
- Plans consider cost, effectiveness and feasibility
- Documented rationale is in place for why a decision has or hasn’t been taken
Example:
A small theatre may not afford permanent security staff, but could:
- Train ushers in ACT Awareness
- Use the “power of hello“: a simple yet powerful concept that emphasises the positive impact of a friendly greeting. It’s about initiating a connection, often with a stranger, through a casual “hello”. This simple act can lead to a variety of positive outcomes, from improving someone’s day to potentially preventing or defusing a dangerous situation.
- Conduct bag checks at peak events
- Install signage reminding visitors to report suspicious behaviour
These are low-cost, practical steps that still meet the spirit of the law.
5.4 Using the Basic Security Plan Template
To support you, this course includes a Basic Security Plan Template for venues in the Standard Tier. This includes:
- Venue summary and contact details
- Risk register and mitigation steps
- Emergency procedures and assembly points
- Training records
- Review and update log
The template is editable and can be expanded for Enhanced Tier requirements
Tips for Completion:
- Involve your operational team and volunteers in identifying risks
- Be honest about limitations and document them
- Schedule quarterly reviews and post-event updates
Handouts (will open in a new tab):
In Lesson 6, we will explore the additional requirements for Enhanced Tier venues, including advanced risk assessment techniques and more detailed security planning expectations.
