Cryotherapy Incident in Paris: Investigation Launched After Nitrogen Leak
A tragic incident involving a nitrogen leak during a cryotherapy session at a gym in Paris has led to the death of a 29-year-old woman and left another woman in critical condition. The event has raised serious safety concerns regarding the use of nitrogen in cryotherapy, a therapeutic practice that utilizes extreme cold to promote recovery.
Details of the Incident
Emergency responders arrived at the On Air gym in east-central Paris shortly before 6:30 p.m. on April 14. According to reports from The Guardian, two women were found unresponsive and in cardiorespiratory arrest, likely due to an accidental nitrogen leak from a cryotherapy chamber that had undergone repairs earlier that same day.
Casualties and Response
- The deceased was an employee of the gym.
- The second victim, a 34-year-old woman, is currently in intensive care.
- Additionally, three other individuals were hospitalized after attempting to perform resuscitation on the victims.
- A total of 150 patrons were evacuated from the facility as a precautionary measure.
Investigation and Safety Concerns
In response to the incident, the Paris prosecutor’s office has initiated a criminal investigation, coordinating with police and workplace safety inspectors to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the malfunctioning equipment. An autopsy and toxicology studies are forthcoming to ascertain the direct cause of death, while the oversight of maintenance practices and safety protocols in relation to the cryotherapy chamber is under scrutiny.
Safety Protocols in Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, which typically involves exposure to liquid nitrogen for therapeutic effects, has been flagged in the past for its associated risks. The European Industrial Gases Association highlighted dangers related to asphyxiation in a 2018 warning, stressing the necessity for stringent safety measures when utilizing nitrogen gas within such environments.
Conclusion
This tragic event underscores the critical importance of adhering to safety standards in therapeutic environments, particularly those involving potentially hazardous materials. As investigations continue, it remains imperative that all health and wellness facilities review and bolster their protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Originally published on Latin Times