Employers and HR teams must establish clear policies to ensure artificial intelligence (AI) is used ethically and responsibly in the workplace, focusing on data security and fair treatment of employees, according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
Hayfa Mohdzaini, senior policy and practice adviser for technology at the CIPD, stressed this in response to the Government’s launch of the AI Opportunities Action Plan.
Mohdzaini highlighted AI’s potential to boost productivity and enhance job satisfaction, explaining that delegating repetitive tasks to AI could allow employees to focus on more meaningful, human-centred responsibilities.
However, she also cautioned that effective implementation requires careful oversight to maintain trust and avoid unintended consequences.
She said: “A CIPD poll of over 1,500 people in January 2025 found that six in 10 respondents would trust AI to inform, but not make, important decisions at work.
“This highlights the importance of human oversight when introducing this technology.”
The CIPD encouraged HR professionals to lead the charge by developing robust frameworks for AI integration.
This included creating clear guidelines on ethical use, safeguarding data security, and fostering collaboration between teams.
Additionally, Mohdzaini emphasised the need for upskilling and reskilling initiatives to ensure employees can adapt to the changing workplace landscape.
She added: “Organizations should foster a culture of cross-team collaboration, helping employees develop their skills or reskill as necessary to ensure no one gets left behind as AI transforms workplaces and careers.”