(a)

1. (1) The hearing officer may grant a continuance of hearing for good cause shown.
2. (2) Requests for continuances will be made in writing.
3. (3) The request must state the grounds to be considered and be made as soon as practicable and, except in cases of emergencies, no later than five (5) days prior to the date noticed for the hearing.

(b) In determining whether to grant a continuance, the hearing officer may consider:

1. (1) Prior continuances;
2. (2) The interests of all parties;
3. (3) The likelihood of informal settlements;
4. (4) The existence of an emergency;
5. (5) Any objection;
6. (6) Any applicable time requirement;
7. (7) The existence of a conflict of the schedules of counsel, parties, or witnesses;
8. (8) The time limits of the request; and
9. (9) Other relevant factors.