EU AI Act: Do You Need to Train Your Staff in AI Literacy?

The European Union's AI Act introduces comprehensive requirements for organizations using artificial intelligence, including mandatory staff training. As the February 2025 deadline approaches, many organizations are asking: does this apply to us? This guide will help you understand your obligations regarding AI literacy training.

This is part 1 of our 5-part series on AI Literacy under the EU AI Act. See also: What is AI Literacy?, Implementing AI Literacy, Role-Specific Requirements, and Maintaining Compliance.

Understanding the Scope

The requirement for AI literacy training extends beyond tech companies and AI developers. Any organization using AI systems professionally within or affecting the EU needs to ensure their staff has appropriate AI literacy levels. However, the extent of required training varies based on how AI is used in your operations.

Who Needs to Implement AI Literacy Training?

Your organization likely falls under these requirements if you: 

• Use AI-powered tools for business decisions (such as HR screening software or customer service automation) 

• Have employees who regularly use ChatGPT or similar AI assistants 

• Develop or deploy AI solutions internally or for clients 

• Process EU customer data using AI-enabled systems

Organizations Likely Exempt

Not every business using modern software needs AI literacy training. You're likely exempt if:

 • You only use basic automation without AI components (like simple rule-based systems) 

• Your AI use is purely incidental (such as basic spell-check features) 

• You have no EU operations or impact on EU customers

 • You use software with AI features but don't actively employ them

Required Training Content

The EU AI Act specifies that training should cover:

 • Basic AI concepts relevant to specific job roles 

• Practical understanding of AI capabilities and limitations 

• Methods for responsible interpretation of AI outputs 

• Awareness of potential risks and necessary safeguards

Training Depth and Customization

The required depth of training varies depending on how your staff interacts with AI: 

• Basic awareness training for occasional users 

• Intermediate training for regular users 

• Comprehensive training for decision-makers and implementers

Implementing Your Training Program

When planning your AI literacy program, consider:

1. Identifying which teams need training
2. Determining appropriate training levels
3. Scheduling training before the February 2025 deadline
4. Establishing ongoing assessment methods
5. Documenting completion for compliance purposes

Next Steps

Review your organization's AI usage against the criteria above to determine if you're in scope for these requirements. If you are, start planning your training implementation now to ensure compliance before the February 2025 deadline.

Ready to get your team trained? Our certified 45-minute AI literacy course is specifically designed to meet EU AI Act requirements efficiently and effectively.