Your company's employee handbook probably needs updating. The prevalence and accessibility of artificial intelligence (AI) tools online makes it necessary for employers to adopt policies concerning the use of AI in the workplace. The issues that these policies should address include:

  • Which—if any—AI tools are permissible for use.
  • Procedures for preventing the use of inaccurate information and the unauthorized use of intellectual property.
  • Prohibitions against entering confidential information and trade secrets into publicly accessible AI programs.
  • Measures the company has implemented to prevent discriminatory results when using AI tools in employment contexts.

The Permissibility of AI-Tool Use

Employee handbooks should clearly state whether the company condones the use of AI tools to accomplish work-related tasks. Companies should also specify which—if any—AI tools are off limits, and identify which groups of employees the company affords permission to use AI tools. 

If an employer permits the use of AI tools, the handbook should: 1) identify by title or position a contact person whom employees may reach out to with questions about the company's AI policies, and 2) explain what an employee should do if the employee becomes aware of an actual or potential violation of the company's AI policies.