In a tragic incident at the On Air gym in Paris, a 29-year-old employee lost her life, and a 34-year-old client was critically injured due to a suspected nitrogen leak during a cryotherapy session. The leak reportedly displaced oxygen in the room, leading to asphyxiation. Emergency services were unable to revive the employee, while the client remains in critical condition at Lariboisière hospital. Three others who attempted to assist were also hospitalized. Authorities have launched an investigation, and the gym has been temporarily closed pending further inquiries. ​

Cryotherapy, which involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures using substances like liquid nitrogen, is popular for its purported health benefits, including pain relief and muscle recovery. However, experts caution that nitrogen can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, posing serious risks of asphyxiation. This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and proper ventilation in facilities offering such treatments.​

The Paris tragedy is not an isolated case. In 2015, a 24-year-old spa worker in Las Vegas died after using a cryotherapy chamber alone after hours. The coroner ruled her death as accidental, caused by asphyxia in an oxygen-poor environment. These incidents highlight the potential dangers associated with cryotherapy when safety measures are not adequately enforced.​

As cryotherapy continues to gain popularity, it is imperative for facilities to adhere to strict safety guidelines and for clients to be aware of the potential risks involved. Regulatory oversight may need to be strengthened to prevent such tragedies in the future.​

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