(a) The administrative law judge shall have all powers accorded by law and necessary to preside over the parties and the proceedings and to make decisions in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 554-557. Failure to appear at the time set for hearing shall be deemed a waiver of the right to a hearing and consent to the making of a decision on the record made at the hearing. Copies of the transcript may be inspected or copied.

(b) The transcript of testimony, the exhibits, and all papers, documents, and requests filed in the proceedings, shall constitute the record for decision. The judge will render a written decision upon the record, which shall set forth his findings of fact and conclusions of law, and the reasons and basis therefor, and an assessment of a penalty, if any.