As to a policy, I'm not sure that a written policy can anticipate every situation that comes along, and I'd hate to see a safety practitioner be unable to act because the exact situation hasn't been addressed previously in writing.  

I think you make a compelling argument for why a panel is needed.  Perhaps your maintenance folks can create a temporary cover of a suitable material if the original panel can't be located for some reason.

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Hello Everyone,

When the utility panel on a chemical fume hood is missing is it safe to allow work to be preformed in the hood?

I would say work (synthesis, toxic gas use and powder decanting) should not be preformed until the panel be replaced for the following reasons:

1. Eddyies in the hood are likely to be form which may cause loss of containment.
2. Chemicals vapors are going into areas where they are not suppose go and may cause deterioration of the plumbing and joints
3. HighPerformance and Low flow hoods would be especially vulnerable to the loss of work space integrity.

Would anyone have a policy on hood repairs like the above or comments? 
As always, thank you for your thoughts in advance.

Mary Ellen