Most employers are at least somewhat familiar with artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing presence in the workplace. Employees are increasingly using AI tools to draft emails, create presentations, summarize documents and analyze data, often saving time and improving efficiency along the way. In many organizations, AI may already be in use, even if the employer has not formally addressed it through training or policy.
While AI offers significant benefits, it also presents potential legal and compliance risks. Employees who enter confidential company information, customer data, employee information or proprietary business information into public AI platforms may unintentionally expose sensitive information. AI-generated content can also be inaccurate, biased or incomplete, creating potential concerns related to discrimination, employment decisions and business communications.
For these reasons, employers should not assume employees understand the appropriate use of AI in the workplace simply because they know how to use the technology. Instead, organizations should consider establishing clear expectations regarding when and how AI tools may be used and providing employees with training on those expectations. Topics may include confidentiality, data security, acceptable uses of AI, review and verification of AI-generated content, and the employer’s expectations regarding transparency and accountability.
As with many workplace issues, the greatest risk is often not the technology itself, but employees using it without clear guidance and training. Employers that proactively educate employees and establish clear expectations will be better positioned to leverage AI’s benefits while minimizing potential legal and operational risks.
For information on AI training opportunities, contact The MBA Training Department. If your organization needs assistance developing or reviewing an AI workplace policy, contact The MBA HR & Legal Services Department.
Tammy Toman, JD, PHR, is vice president and employment counsel at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200, 800/815-2660 or ttoman@mbausa.org.