A devastating accident at a luxury gym in Paris has reignited debates over the safety of cryotherapy treatments. On April 14, 2025, a nitrogen leak in a cryotherapy chamber at the On Air gym on Boulevard Voltaire resulted in the death of a 29-year-old employee and left a 34-year-old client in critical condition. The incident has prompted investigations and raised questions about the regulation of such treatments.
The Incident
During a routine cryotherapy session, both the employee and the client collapsed as nitrogen gas displaced oxygen in the treatment room, leading to suffocation. Emergency responders were unable to revive the employee, while the client was transported to Lariboisière Hospital, where she remains in critical condition. Three additional staff members sustained mild injuries, and approximately 150 people were evacuated from the facility, which has since been closed indefinitely.
Understanding Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures, typically between -110°C and -140°C, using liquid nitrogen or argon gas. The treatment is popular among athletes and celebrities for its purported benefits, including muscle recovery and inflammation reduction. However, the procedure remains controversial, with limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy.
Health Risks and Past Incidents
While cryotherapy is generally considered safe when conducted properly, accidents can occur, particularly in non-medical settings. The primary risk involves asphyxiation due to oxygen displacement by nitrogen gas. In 2015, a 24-year-old spa worker in Las Vegas died after being trapped in a cryotherapy chamber overnight. The coroner ruled the death as accidental, caused by suffocation in an oxygen-poor environment.
Regulatory Oversight and Safety Measures
The Paris incident has highlighted the need for stricter regulations and safety protocols in cryotherapy facilities. Experts recommend the installation of oxygen monitors, proper ventilation systems, and comprehensive staff training to prevent such tragedies. Following the 2015 incident in Las Vegas, Nevada issued health guidelines for cryotherapy centers, including the use of nitrogen monitors and emergency equipment on-site.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in Paris have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the nitrogen leak. Prosecutors have ordered autopsies and toxicological analyses of the victims. It was reported that plumbing work had been carried out at the gym earlier in the day, but it remains unclear if this contributed to the leak. The gym’s management is cooperating with officials to understand what happened.
Public Reaction and Industry Response
The Paris community has been left shaken by the tragic event, with many questioning the oversight and regulation of wellness facilities offering such high-risk treatments. Health authorities have begun reviewing protocols for cryotherapy operations across the country. Meanwhile, several fitness centers have voluntarily suspended cryotherapy services pending internal safety audits. Industry professionals stress that while cryotherapy can offer benefits, it must only be performed with rigorous safeguards in place. The incident has also sparked calls for mandatory certification and government inspections of such equipment to ensure public safety, particularly in private gyms and wellness spas operating outside medical supervision.
Conclusion
The tragic events at the Paris gym serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with cryotherapy treatments, especially in settings lacking proper safety measures. As the popularity of such treatments continues to grow, it is imperative for regulatory bodies to enforce stringent safety standards to protect clients and staff alike.
