Assessing Safety and Compliance in Commercial LPG Systems: A Critical Diagnosis from the Ecuadorian Regulatory Framework

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) plays a central role in urban energy systems in Ecuador; however, its widespread use in commercial settings has been accompanied by recurrent safety deficiencies and regulatory non-compliance. This study presents a systematic assessment of safety conditions and regulatory compliance in commercial LPG installations in the city of Ambato, Ecuador, within the framework of national technical standards and international safety codes. An observational diagnostic approach was applied through in situ inspections of 380 commercial establishments, evaluating both technical aspects—such as container location, sizing, piping integrity, connection length, and equipment condition—and administrative requirements, including permits, preventive maintenance plans, and the use of subsidized LPG. The results reveal pervasive non-compliance across critical safety parameters, with particularly high deficiencies in container location, excessive connection lengths, lack of maintenance, absence of permits, and misuse of subsidized fuel. These findings indicate systemic weaknesses in regulatory enforcement and safety management, exacerbated by economic incentives associated with fuel subsidies. The study highlights significant implications for urban safety, public health, and fiscal sustainability and underscores the urgent need to strengthen inspection mechanisms, improve technical training, and implement risk-based regulatory strategies to ensure the safe and sustainable use of LPG in densely populated commercial environments.