The appeals board may, in accordance with rules of practice and procedure which it shall adopt, direct and order a hearing officer:
(a)
To try the issues in any proceeding before it, whether of fact or of law, and make and file a finding, order, or decision based thereon.
(b)
To hold hearings and ascertain facts necessary to enable the appeals board to determine any proceeding or to make any order or decision that the appeals board is authorized to make, or necessary for the information of the appeals board.