(b) The board may designate one or more of its members or competent
employees to hold a hearing or investigation relating to any matter
pertaining to the execution of its functions, and to report to the
board.
(c) The board by one or more members shall have the power:
(1) To administer oaths and take affidavits in matters relating to the
performance of its functions under this chapter;
(2) To issue subpoenas for and compel the attendance of witnesses and
the production of books, contracts, papers, documents and other
evidence;
(3) To hear testimony and take or cause to be taken depositions of
witnesses residing within or without this state in the manner prescribed
by law for like depositions in civil actions in the supreme court.
Subpoenas and commissions to take testimony shall be issued under the
seal of the department.
8. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or any other
law, neither the industrial commissioner nor any board or other agency
of the department of labor shall in any way direct, review, modify or
reverse any decision or finding of the board, nor shall the industrial
commissioner or any board or other agency of the department of labor
supervise or control the board in the exercise of any powers or in the
performance of its duties or functions under this chapter.