This article is part of an impartial series summarising guidance and policy around the safe procurement and adoption of AI for military purposes. This piece looks at recent White House guidance on protecting workers from the risks of Artificial Intelligence available here: https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-unveils-critical-steps-protect-workers-from-risks

In a significant move to safeguard workers from the potential risks posed by artificial intelligence, the White House has announced a series of critical steps designed to ensure ethical AI development and workplace usage. These measures emphasise worker empowerment, transparency, ethical growth, and robust governance frameworks.

Critical Principles for AI in the Workplace

1. Worker Empowerment:Workers should have a say in designing, developing, and using AI technologies in their workplaces. This inclusive approach ensures that AI systems align with the real needs and concerns of the workforce, particularly those from underserved communities.

2. Ethical Development:AI technologies should protect workers' interests, including that AI systems do not infringe on workers' rights or compromise their safety.

3. AI Governance and Oversight:Clear governance structures and human oversight mechanisms are essential. Organisations must have procedures to evaluate and monitor AI systems regularly to ensure they function as intended and do not cause harm.

4. Transparency:Employers must be transparent about the use of AI in their operations. Workers and job seekers should be informed about how AI systems are utilised, ensuring no ambiguity or hidden agendas.

5. Protection of Rights:AI systems must respect and uphold workers' rights, including health and safety regulations, wage and hour laws, and anti-discrimination protections. Any AI application that undermines these rights is unacceptable.

6. AI as a Support Tool:AI should enhance job quality and support workers in their roles. The technology should assist and complement human workers rather than replace them, ensuring that it adds value to their work experience.

7. Support During Transition:As AI changes job roles, employers are responsible for supporting their workers through these transitions. This includes providing opportunities for reskilling and upskilling to help workers adapt to new demands.

8. Responsible Use of Data:Data collected by AI systems should be managed responsibly. The scope of data collection should be limited to what is necessary for legitimate business purposes, and data should be protected to prevent misuse.

A Framework for the Future

These principles are intended to be a guiding framework for businesses across all sectors. They must be considered throughout the entire AI lifecycle, from design and development to deployment, oversight, and auditing. While not all principles will apply equally in every industry, they provide a comprehensive foundation for responsible AI usage.

Conclusion

The US proactive approach to regulating AI in the workplace is a significant step towards ensuring that AI technologies are developed and used in ways that protect and empower workers. By setting these clear principles, the Administration aims to create an environment where AI can drive innovation and opportunity while safeguarding the rights and well-being of the workforce. Similar measures will be crucial as AI balances technological advancement and ethical responsibility.