Prehearing conference.

1. At any time before a hearing, the Board, on its own motion or on the motion of a party, may direct the parties or their representatives to exchange information or to participate in a prehearing conference to consider matters which will simplify the issues or expedite the proceedings. 2. The Board may issue a prehearing order which includes the agreements reached by the parties. The order will be served on all parties and is a part of the record.