The EU AI Act marks a significant shift in how organisations across Europe must handle AI systems, especially those classified as high-risk. A key provision of the Act requires companies to provide AI literacy training for employees, ensuring that AI technologies are used responsibly, safely and in compliance with regulatory standards.
However, many organisations may not yet fully grasp the implications of this regulation. This article explores why AI literacy is crucial under the EU AI Act and how organisations can effectively prepare for this requirement.
AI Literacy: A Pillar of Compliance
AI literacy refers to the essential knowledge and skills employees need to interact with, manage and oversee AI systems within an organisation. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into business processes, it is no longer feasible for only a small group of experts to understand how these systems operate. The EU AI Act acknowledges this, mandating that employees involved with high-risk AI systems must be adequately trained to ensure their safe and effective use.
For organisations deploying high-risk AI systems, providing comprehensive training is not optional – it’s a legal requirement. The Act specifies that those using AI systems must implement human oversight, ensuring that individuals responsible for these systems are properly trained, competent and empowered to intervene when necessary. These requirements apply across sectors like healthcare, finance and recruitment, where AI systems significantly impact people’s lives and rights.
To help organisations meet these demands, AI Ireland offers comprehensive training programmes designed to equip employees with the necessary knowledge to navigate AI regulations and ensure full compliance with the EU AI Act. Visit our training centre and EU AI Act Hub for more details.
The Myth of Exemption: Off-the-Shelf Solutions
There is a misconception that organisations using off-the-shelf AI systems, especially from well-known providers, may not need to worry about the EU AI Act. However, this is incorrect. The Act makes it clear that any organisation deploying high-risk AI systems must comply with all obligations, regardless of whether they developed the technology themselves.
Organisations must ensure that these systems are used according to the provider’s instructions and take necessary technical and organisational measures to ensure they function as intended. Relying solely on the AI provider’s compliance is insufficient; the deployer is responsible for correct use.
This responsibility includes providing employee training for those who interact with the systems, making it a critical component of compliance.
Human Oversight: The Cornerstone of AI Safety
One of the Act’s primary requirements is the implementation of robust human oversight for high-risk AI systems. Organisations must appoint qualified individuals who can oversee AI operations and intervene when needed. Effective oversight requires more than just assigning a monitor—it demands in-depth training for those responsible so they can fully understand the system’s functionality, identify risks, and take action when necessary.
AI Ireland offers bespoke training programmes that equip teams with the skills to manage high-risk AI deployments effectively, ensuring full compliance with the oversight requirements of the Act.
The Role of Data Control
AI literacy extends beyond understanding systems to include managing the data that drives them. Organisations controlling input data must ensure it is relevant and representative, as poor-quality or biased data can lead to harmful outcomes and regulatory violations. Training employees in data governance is essential for compliance and for maintaining AI system integrity.
AI Ireland provides data literacy training as part of its broader AI education offering, helping organisations meet regulatory requirements and improve the quality of their AI systems.
Continuous Monitoring and Log Retention
Under the EU AI Act, organisations must continuously monitor AI systems to ensure they are operating as intended and act quickly if any risks or malfunctions are detected. Continuous assessment is crucial for maintaining system integrity and compliance with safety and transparency requirements.
Additionally, organisations must retain system logs for at least six months. These logs provide transparency, accountability and the ability to trace issues. In industries like finance, existing governance structures can often be adapted to meet the monitoring and log retention requirements.
Informing Workers and Affected Individuals
Transparency is another key requirement of the EU AI Act. Employers must notify workers and their representatives before deploying AI systems in the workplace. Additionally, if AI is used in decision-making processes that impact individuals – such as recruitment or lending – those affected must be informed. This transparency helps build trust and ensures people understand how AI affects their lives.
Preparing for the Future: A Practical Guide
With the February 2025 deadline approaching, organisations need to act now to meet the AI literacy requirements of the EU AI Act. A practical roadmap includes:
- Evaluating Current AI Use: Identify AI systems in use, especially high-risk ones, and assess their integration.
- Developing AI Literacy Training: Create tailored training programmes to help employees understand and oversee AI systems.
- Assigning Human Oversight Roles: Appoint trained individuals to monitor AI systems.
- Implementing Data Governance Policies: Ensure data used in AI systems is well-managed and representative.
- Establishing Monitoring and Reporting Procedures: Develop protocols for continuous AI monitoring and log retention.
- Communicating with Employees and Affected Parties: Keep workers and affected individuals informed about AI system usage.
Conclusion
The EU AI Act is set to transform how organisations manage AI systems. By making AI literacy a core focus, the Act promotes responsible and safe AI use, reducing risks and increasing transparency. With the 2025 deadline approaching, organisations must act now to ensure compliance.
For support in meeting these requirements, AI Ireland offers comprehensive training programmes tailored to the EU AI Act. Visiti our training centre and EU AI Act Hub to learn more about how we can help your organisation prepare for the future of AI regulation.
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