Are Dock Door Curtains required?

I'm asking for opinions.  My company owns a site in a different state and I'm in the process of getting them SQF certified.  Are dock door curtains required?  I've never worked anywhere that didn't have them.  We have a quote for 7K to get them installed and I'm wondering if the expense is required.  There is an awning extending from the roof and that is it.  No other shelter when unloading and loading trucks.  Birds could easily fly into the building, rain, etc.  Comments are appreciated!

Hi, 

This is tricky because i can't see your dock doors so i don't know what gaps etc there are. 

I'm BRC and we have a form of curtain, almost like and awning with sides? and then nets at the bottom to cover the gaps. 

I think essentially you just can't gaps / space for pest ingress etc - but yes this kind of stuff is super expensive!

***sorry i'm aware this probably wasn't very helpful...it's been a long day

We have one client where the best solution was to build out an annex, surround the outside surface (around the opening) with cushioning and as the trucks back into the annex it compresses really well - good seal/fit and no gaps. Expense about $20,000 per doorway x 5 but for them well worth it.

For me I like the gel bottomed mesh curtains that slide down as one unit.  

Your application however sounds like you may need an annex (just not as complex as the one noted above) built out - or it could be just installing an overhang and then a curtain.

I just read the title again and noticed that it said - Are Dock Door Curtains REQUIRED - I missed the whole point, sorry.

In answer to that question - NO, they are not - however what is required is effective closure, sealing - no gaps and protection of product in movement from cargo door area to transport.