For the purpose of enforcing the provisions of this code, considering the desirability or scope of any proposed rule or regulation hereunder, and for the purpose of making any determination required to be made by the department under this code, the department shall have power to conduct inspection, to hold public or private hearings, to subpoena witnesses, administer oaths and take testimony, and compel the production of books, papers, records and documents. The commissioner may designate himself or herself or one or more of the members, officers or employees of the department to act as a hearing board, to exercise any one or more of the powers listed, and the department may promulgate regulations to assure a lawful, orderly and fair procedure before such hearing board. Every person who shall appear before such a hearing board shall have the right to be represented by counsel of his or her own choosing.