A division chief acting as a hearings officer must comply with this section, and may not consult any person in or outside of the division on any issue of fact, with the exception of ex parte matters authorized by law. Att. Gen. Op. 98-6.

Where director's violation of this section by consulting materials and individuals outside the record did not prejudice appellant's substantial rights, harmless error. 87 H. 217, 953 P.2d 1315.