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Navigating the EU's AI Act: 6 - Using General Purpose AI in your Business


Generative AI in the workplace

The world of AI is constantly evolving, and the EU AI Act acknowledges this by establishing a framework for General Purpose AI (GPAI).


In this blog, we'll delve into this unique category and explore how to navigate its deployment by Businesses who use these products as part of their day to day operations.



What is General Purpose AI?


GPAI refers to AI models and systems that use AI models that are designed to perform a wide range of tasks without extensive modification for each specific application. These tools, like large language models (LLMs) or advanced robotics, hold immense potential but also raise unique challenges in terms of regulation.


Generative AI tools fall into this Category within the AI Act.


Due to its' widespread use and potential for use across Society, the European Commission has singled-out this type of System by highlighting responsibilities for businesses who use these Systems as part of their day to day operations (Deployers).



Embracing the AI Revolution; Responsibilities for Deployers (users) of GPAI models


GPAI systems offer exciting possibilities for revolutionizing the workplace. However, their wide applicability and evolving nature present unique challenges for Businesses looking to deploy them while complying with various EU regulations. 


Here's an overview of what businesses need to do:


Understand the Regulations:


  • EU AI Act: As discussed in the previous Blogs, the AI Act sets essential requirements like transparency, fairness, and human oversight. These principles apply to GPAI within the workplace, and specific regulations are under continuous development

  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Businesses using GPAI systems that process personal data must comply with the GDPR. This includes ensuring lawful processing, data subject rights, and robust data security measures

  • Other relevant regulations: Depending on the specific use case of the GPAI system, additional regulations like employment law, anti-discrimination laws, and algorithmic bias frameworks may come into play

Key Compliance Considerations for Businesses:


  • Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment considering the specific workplace context and the potential impact of the GPAI system on employees. Identify and implement strategies to mitigate risks related to bias, fairness, transparency, privacy, and worker well-being

  • Data Governance: Implement robust data governance practices to ensure data quality, fairness, security, and compliance with the GDPR. This includes obtaining informed consent, minimizing data collection and retention, and implementing data minimization strategies

  • Transparency and Explainability: Provide clear and understandable information about how the GPAI system works and makes decisions. This fosters trust and allows employees to understand how the system might impact them

  • Human Oversight and Control: Establish clear lines of responsibility and ensure human oversight throughout the lifecycle of the GPAI system. This means involving humans in decision-making processes, monitoring system performance, and having the ability to override or intervene when necessary

  • Ethical Impact Assessment: Conduct an ethical impact assessment to consider the potential social, ethical, and legal implications of using the GPAI system in the workplace. This proactive approach ensures responsible deployment and minimizes unintended consequences

  • Record-Keeping and Reporting: Maintain appropriate records of the development, deployment, and use of the GPAI system. This is crucial for demonstrating compliance and addressing any potential issues that may arise

Additional Considerations:


  • Employee Training and Communication: Train employees about the capabilities and limitations of the GPAI system, fostering understanding and building trust. Establish codes of conduct that inform employees about the need to omit personal and sensitive data when using these Systems

  • Regular Review and Monitoring: Regularly review and monitor the performance of the GPAI system, adapting it as needed to address identified risks and ensure continued compliance

  • Seek Expert Guidance: Consult with legal and compliance professionals to navigate the specific regulatory landscape and ensure your business implements a responsible approach to deploying GPAI in the workplace


Remember: By understanding the unique challenges of GPAI and proactively addressing compliance obligations, your Business can leverage its potential while ensuring responsible and ethical use within the EU regulatory framework.


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Throughout this journey, remember: compliance doesn't have to be a burden. By understanding the AI Act and implementing its principles, you can harness the immense potential of AI while fostering trust and ensuring responsible innovation.


If you need help with understanding AI Compliance in your Business, or with anything at all to do with your IT Organisation, reach out to us here at CB Navigate.


What are your thoughts? We'd love to hear your feedback, or if you'd like to discuss this topic and others with us in more detail, please reach out to us info@cbnavigate.com



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