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2019 Cycle

Nonresidential Loading Dock Seals

Nonresidential
Envelope

Measure Description

The proposed measure adds a mandatory requirement for loading docks to be equipped with dock seals or shelters. Dock seals and shelters are designed to eliminate the gap between a truck trailer and the interior of a loading bay. Dock seals typically consist of foam with vinyl covering that is installed on the exterior perimeter, excluding the bottom of a dock door. When a truck trailer backs into the dock seal, the foam is compressed and a gasket is created that protects the loading bay, truck, and goods from the elements. Dock shelters are flexible curtains that surround the exterior perimeter, excluding the bottom of a dock door. When a truck backs into the shelter, the curtains are pushed into contact with the truck creating a seal. Dock shelters can accommodate a wider range of truck trailers than dock seals.

The proposed dock seal and shelter measure will primarily impact newly constructed warehouse facilities, though other newly constructed commercial buildings with loading docks and bays will also be impacted. The measure applies to exterior dock doors that are adjacent to spaces that are either heated and or cooled. Doors that enclose unconditioned spaces will not be impacted by the proposed change.

This measure is not recommended for additions and alterations, because dock doors currently do not have other requirements within the California Energy Code, and would trigger a new requirement to apply for a building permit where one does not currently exist. This would create a significant compliance barrier and cost impact that could impact cost-effectiveness.

The proposed measure limits infiltration and subsequent energy loss in warehouse buildings, big box retail, and other commercial buildings that have loading dock doors. Air leakage through doors when trucks are at the loading dock can have significant energy impacts. ASHRAE 90.1-2016 has requirements for weather seals in the colder climate zones (ASHRAE Climate Zones 4 through 8). Although the energy use intensity (EUI) of warehouse buildings is lower than the EUI of other buildings, forecasted construction estimates indicate a significant statewide savings potential. This measure could also move warehouses closer to an energy use target that allows for the design of zero net energy buildings.

Resources

The Statewide CASE Team 2019 Title 24, Part 6 Final CASE Report is available below. The Final CASE Report incorporates feedback received during utility-sponsored stakeholder meetings, Energy Commission Pre-Rulemaking workshops, and personal communication with stakeholders.

Presentations and Meetings

  1. Presentation from Stakeholder Meeting on December 12, 2016
  2. Notes from Stakeholder Meeting on December 12, 2016
  3. Presentation from Stakeholder Meeting on March 21, 2017
  4. Notes from Stakeholder Meeting on March 21, 2017

Reports

  1. CASE Study Results Report
  2. Final CASE Report – Addendum Added November 2017
  3. Final CASE Report
  4. Draft CASE Report

Give Us Your Feedback

The Statewide CASE Team values input from all stakeholders engaged in the Title 24, Part 6 code change process. We encourage the open exchange of code change comments and concerns.

  • Use the form above to provide feedback on this measure.