The North Carolina Industrial Commission is authorized to hear and pass upon all claims filed pursuant to this Article. The members of the Commission, or a deputy thereof, have power to issue subpoenas, administer oaths, conduct hearings, take evidence, enter orders, opinions, settlements, and awards, and punish for contempt. The Commission may appoint deputies and clerical assistants to carry out the purpose and intent of this Article, and this deputy or deputies are vested with the same power and authority to hear and determine claims filed pursuant to this Article as is by this Article vested in the members of the Commission. (1985 (Reg. Sess., 1986), c. 1008, s. 1.)