(a) The Appeals Board may consolidate for hearing and decision any number of proceedings involving the same employer.

(b) Upon motion of a party or upon its own motion, the Appeals Board may consolidate for hearing and decision any number of proceedings involving different employers where the facts and circumstances are similar and consolidation will result in conservation of time and expense. Any party may object to consolidation in writing within 10 days of the date of service of the order of consolidation.

(c) Consolidated proceedings may be severed by the Appeals Board for good cause.