AI Acceptable Use Policies: A Guide for UK Businesses
As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly embedded in everyday work, UK businesses face a growing need to establish clear guidelines for their use. An AI acceptable use policy sets out how employees should interact with AI systems, what data can be shared with them, and how outputs should be verified.
Why UK GDPR Makes AI Policies Essential
Under UK GDPR, businesses remain responsible for personal data regardless of whether it's processed by humans or AI systems. When employees paste customer information into ChatGPT or similar tools, that data may be stored, used for training, or accessed by third parties — potentially breaching data protection obligations.
Key Elements of an Effective AI Policy
A comprehensive AI policy should address tool approval processes, data classification (what can and cannot be input to AI), output verification requirements, disclosure obligations, and incident reporting procedures. It should also clarify responsibilities across different roles in the organisation.
Getting Started with AI Governance
Our free template provides a practical starting point for SMEs. It's written in plain English, fully editable, and designed to be customised for your specific business context. We recommend reviewing and updating your AI policy at least annually as the technology and regulatory landscape evolve.
