This could create major issues, including possible termination, for workers found to have used AI in a way that violates their employer’s AI usage policy.
Giuseppe Calabetta, associate professor of workplace and business law at the University of Technology Sydney, told nine.com.au that “generally speaking, the consequences will follow the same logic as any other breach of policy in the workplace”.
“Fair Work Tribunal upheld dismissal where employee breached data handling, privacy, social media and information security policies.”
Nearly 20% of currently employed survey respondents admitted to using AI at least every day at work.
Of these people, almost half admitted to being addicted multiple times a day.
Additionally, 19% said they use AI weekly, and more than 60% said they never use AI at work.
The majority of people who use AI at work say they only use ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and other AI tools for simple tasks like composing emails or checking spelling.
Almost one in three people uses AI to create reports, presentations, and other work.
About 10% is used for other tasks such as translating, researching, writing feedback, creating artwork, and “finding answers to customer questions.”
Just over 10% admitted that their employer is not aware of the use of AI in the workplace, and 15% said they were unsure whether their boss knew they were using AI.
Even more concerning is that only 32 per cent of Australians using AI in the workplace actually know if and what their employer has an AI use policy.
“Even without a policy, employers may discipline employees if the use of AI results in privacy violations, disclosure of confidential information, reputational damage, or dangerous or discriminatory consequences,” Carabetta said.
In the absence of an AI policy, workers can protect themselves in several ways. Never put sensitive information into publicly available AI tools. Only use employer-approved or “secure” AI systems. Follow other existing employer policies.
When in doubt, employees can also ask authorized managers what AI use they are allowed to use.
“If a worker knows the rules and ignores them, even a first offense, termination may be warranted,” Carabetta said.
“Especially where confidentiality or customer trust is compromised.”
The nine.com.au poll runs once every two weeks and solicits the views of Nine viewers on 9Nation, our online community of readers and viewers.
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