Flying insects are one of the most persistent hygiene problems for UK food businesses, restaurants and commercial premises. Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) regularly cite inadequate pest exclusion as a compliance issue during food hygiene inspections. PVC strip curtains are one of the most practical and cost-effective first-line pest exclusion measures available.
Why Flies Are a Serious Problem for UK Food Businesses
Flies are not merely a nuisance — they are a significant food safety risk. House flies (Musca domestica) and blowflies (Calliphora species) are known vectors for over 100 human pathogens, including Salmonella, E. coli O157:H7, Campylobacter and Listeria. In a food production or catering environment, fly contamination can cause product recalls, food poisoning outbreaks, enforcement action and irreparable reputational damage. Under the Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2006, food businesses must take appropriate measures to prevent pest contamination.
How PVC Strip Curtains Control Flying Insects
- Physical barrier — overlapping PVC strips create a physical obstacle that insects cannot easily navigate
- Air movement reduction — many insects navigate by following warm air currents from inside buildings; PVC curtains significantly reduce outward air flow, making it harder for insects to locate entry points
- Disrupted environment — the moving, reflective surface of PVC strips disrupts insects' navigational systems, particularly in bright daylight
For maximum effectiveness, combine with brush strip seals at the sides and base, UV insect killers (electronic fly killers) positioned inside the entrance, and regular inspection and maintenance to ensure no gaps have formed.
Anti-Insect Grade PVC
For enhanced performance, we supply anti-insect grade PVC incorporating insect-deterrent properties in the PVC formulation itself — providing an additional layer of protection beyond the physical barrier.
Configurations for Different Premises
Commercial Kitchens & Restaurants
The transition from goods-in or outdoor areas to the kitchen is the primary fly entry route. A PVC strip curtain with brush seal perimeter, combined with an electronic fly killer positioned 2-3m inside the entrance, provides a comprehensive exclusion system satisfying EHO inspection requirements.
Food Production Facilities
Use anti-insect grade PVC strips on all external access points, with twin track rail systems for maximum coverage and brush seals as standard. Document your fly exclusion system in your HACCP plan.
Farm Shops & Rural Food Businesses
Rural premises face higher fly pressure than urban locations during summer months. Use anti-insect PVC strips on all access points to customer-facing and food preparation areas. Clear PVC maintains professional appearance while providing effective protection.
Browse our anti-insect PVC strip curtains. Free UK delivery. Contact us to discuss your specific pest exclusion requirements.
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