Class-approved systems such as PAGA play a non-negotiable role in offshore operations.
In harsh and hazardous environments, personnel rely on clear and reliable emergency communication to stay safe and maintain operational continuity.
Vivo Asia upgraded a Public Address & General Alarm (PAGA) system to be fully class-approved, ensuring compliance, reliability, and long-term operational readiness. Upgrading a PAGA system becomes critical when existing installations fail to meet class or project requirements.
This blog explains the process, key considerations, and challenges we faced while upgrading a PAGA system for offshore operations.
Case Study: Vivo Asia successfully upgraded a class-approved PAGA system for an FPSO vessel in Singapore.
Case Study: class approved PAGA System upgrade
FPSO vessel operated with an existing PAGA system that did not meet current class approval standards. When regulatory and project requirements evolved, the system became non-compliant, creating a risk to safety certification and uninterrupted vessel operations.
Therefore, the project required an upgrade that met classification society requirements without major structural or layout changes onboard.
Issue at a glance
- Non-class-approved PAGA system
- Risk of non-compliance with offshore safety regulations
- Limited rack space and fixed installation constraints
- Tight schedule for system upgrade and approval
Key Challenge
Firstly, Upgrading a critical offshore safety system required careful planning and execution. Main challenges included:
- Integrating a class-approved PAGA system within existing rack dimensions
- Ensuring compatibility with current onboard infrastructure
- Completing a full Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) within a short timeframe
- Delivering compliance without impacting vessel schedules
PAGA System upgrade solution
As a result, Vivo Asia studied the feasibility of upgrading the existing, non-class-approved PAGA system to a fully class-approved solution using the Zenitel EXIGO PAGA platform.
Furthermore, after conducting a detailed technical review of the vessel’s existing infrastructure, Vivo Asia proposed decommissioning the legacy PAGA system and replacing it with the EXIGO PAGA system.
Importantly, the EXIGO PAGA system fully complies with applicable classification society requirements.
Additionally, the team integrated the new system into the vessel’s existing PA infrastructure while ensuring operational continuity.
We selected the EXIGO system for its modular architecture, flexibility, and proven performance in offshore and hazardous environments.
This upgrade unlocked the value of the existing PA infrastructure, enabling us to seamlessly integrate multiple communication systems into a centralized, class-approved PAGA platform.
System provides advanced monitoring, remote operation, and maintenance capabilities, allowing operators to manage critical safety communications more efficiently and reliably.
To ensure compliance and performance, in the next phase the complete system was subjected to a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT), verifying functionality, alarm logic, system interfaces, and adherence to approved drawings and class requirements.
Benefit of the PAGA System Upgrade
✔ Restored class compliance for the vessel
✔ Improved reliability of emergency communication
✔ Seamless integration within existing installation constraints
✔ Reduced risk of certification delays or operational disruptions
✔ Long-term safety and system dependability
Project outcome & conclusion
We supplied and FAT-approved the complete class-approved PAGA system making the solution available within two weeks. During this time, the team ensured seamless integration with the vessel’s existing infrastructure.
Throughout the project, we upheld the highest standards of safety and compliance. This upgrade delivered a reliable PAGA system that restored confidence and strengthened offshore safety communication.
Looking to upgrade non - compliant PAGA System?
Specializes in upgrading legacy, non-compliant offshore telecommunication and safety systems vivo Asia can ensure into reliable, fully class-approved solutions.
With the right systems, trusted technology partners, and our expert engineers and technicians, we deliver end-to-end upgrades including engineering, integration, and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) — to ensure compliance, performance, and long-term reliability.
Looking to upgrade a non-compliant offshore system? Talk to an expert at contact@vivoasia.com
