Since February 2nd, new AI regulations apply to companies: With the implementation of the EU AI Act, Article 4 mandates that companies ensure their employees have AI competence. But what does this mean in practice? How can companies meet this requirement without losing track?
Although there are still no specific regulations or immediate sanctions, it is advisable to start addressing the topic early and develop a strategy if you want to integrate AI into your processes in the long term.
What Does "AI Competence" Mean?
The term "AI competence" encompasses more than just technical knowledge. The legislation refers to a combination of skills, knowledge, and understanding to use AI systems safely and effectively. This also includes an awareness of opportunities and risks, expertise in working with AI, and responsibility in risk management. This requires tailored training that meets the specific needs of each industry.
However, the EU regulation does not specify how exactly this should be implemented or what content training should cover. Therefore, companies can develop their own training programs. Additionally, there is currently no central control body in Germany for implementation – monitoring takes place locally and within the companies themselves. The assessment of whether an AI system is affected by the EU AI Act can be supported by the official, interactive compliance checker on the EU AI Act website. This tool helps companies analyze their specific AI use cases and derive corresponding measures: EU AI Act Compliance Checker
Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing the AI Competence Requirement
How can companies handle and prepare for the new regulation? Despite the lack of specific rules and requirements, it is sensible to address the topic early and develop a strategy.
The following steps can be helpful:
Conduct a Needs Analysis: Companies should assess what knowledge is already available and whether there is a need for training. Factors such as the company’s field of activity and the qualifications and experience of employees play a role.
Develop Training Measures: If necessary, training concepts can be created based on the analysis, tailored to the company’s specific needs.
Appoint AI Representatives: Depending on the size of the company, it may be useful to appoint a responsible person to coordinate the AI strategy, conduct risk assessments, and plan training sessions.
Ongoing Education: Training should be regularly updated to keep pace with ongoing developments.
It is important to note: Companies should engage with the topic, but not act hastily or feel pressured by the regulation’s implementation. A thoughtful, needs-based plan is sufficient for now and provides a stable foundation for future actions.
AI Training is Booming – But Unified Standards are Missing
The market for AI training is developing dynamically. Many providers are already promoting training and seminars in the area of AI competence, but there are still no binding standards or recognized certifications. As a result, it is not yet possible to judge which programs are particularly recommended. Therefore, we advise: Monitor the market and carefully evaluate before investing in training whose actual benefits are still unclear.
What Penalties Exist for Violations of Article 4 of the EU AI Act? Article 99 of the EU AI Act regulates fines for violations of the law’s provisions. While violations of Article 5, which concerns prohibited AI practices, are subject to high penalties, Article 99 does not impose sanctions for inadequate implementation of Article 4. Therefore, Article 4 is less of a strict obligation with clear consequences and more of a guideline, recommendation, and appeal to employers. However, inadequate implementation can lead to liability risks – for example, if damages arise due to the faulty operation of an AI system or insufficient risk assessment. Therefore, companies should engage with the topic early, despite the lack of direct sanctions.
Conclusion
Even though the EU AI Act does not yet impose specific sanctions for inadequate implementation of Article 4, companies should not take the topic of AI competence lightly. The safe and responsible use of AI requires targeted training, strategic planning, and ongoing adaptation to technological developments.
Since the market for AI training still lacks unified standards, careful selection of training offerings is essential. Companies should therefore act proactively, conduct needs analyses, and develop a long-term strategy – without feeling pressured by the new regulation. A well-founded and practical approach is the best foundation for the successful and safe use of AI in companies. Take the opportunity to engage with the safe and responsible use of AI now and remain competitive in the long run.
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Alina Ohnemus
