(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.