What Industrial Projects Get Wrong: Coverage Studies
In offshore, oil & gas, and industrial facilities, coverage studies are often treated as a formality. Many teams believe coverage can be “fixed later” or that experience alone is enough to guarantee performance.
However, In reality, poor coverage planning leads to blind spots, safety risks, rework, and costly delays.
Let’s debunk the most common coverage study myths—and explain why doing it right from the start matters.
What Is a Coverage Study?
A coverage study is a technical analysis used to verify that systems such as CCTV, PA/GA, Radio, Wi-Fi, and PAGA provide full and reliable coverage across all required operational areas.
Coverage studies are commonly required to meet client specifications, class requirements, and international standards such as NFPA and IEC.
Our expert engineering services at Vivo Asia cover WFI, Radio, CCTV & Sound Coverage Studies.
Myths debunked
Myth 1: “We Can Adjust Coverage After Installation”
❌ Myth
If coverage is weak, we can just reposition devices or add more later.
✅ Reality
Fixing coverage after installation is one of the most expensive mistakes in industrial projects.
Late changes often mean:
- Re-routing cables and conduits
- Additional penetrations and hot work permits
- Re-testing and re-certification
- Production downtime
A coverage study done during the design stage prevents these issues before they happen.
Myth 2: “More Devices Automatically Mean Better Coverage”
❌ Myth
Adding more cameras, speakers, or access points guarantees full coverage.
✅ Reality
Coverage is about placement, line of sight, signal propagation, and environmental conditions—not quantity.
Too many devices can cause:
- RF interference
- Audio overlap and distortion
- Network congestion
- Increased maintenance costs
A proper coverage study optimizes device quantity and positioning for maximum effectiveness.
Myth 3: “If It Works on Paper, It Will Work Onsite”
❌ Myth
If drawings look good, coverage will be fine in the real world.
✅ Reality
Industrial environments are dynamic:
- Steel structures block signals
- Equipment creates reflections and shadows
- Noise levels affect audibility
- Weather and corrosion impact performance
Coverage studies account for real-world conditions, not just drawings.
Plan Your Next Coverage Study Early!
Now that these myths have been debunked, reach out to our team at Vivo Asia.
Our expert engineers and drafters use state-of-the-art tools and facilities to deliver accurate, reliable, and compliant coverage study reports you can trust.
By coverage studies you can
- Avoid costly redesigns
- Reduce installation risks
- Ensure compliance from day one
- Start operations with confidence
Reach out to us on contact@vivoasia.com and plan your next coverage study
