Policy on the use of generative AI

Purpose

This policy outlines how employees can use gen AI tools responsibly, safely and in alignment with our six guiding principles.

As with any new technology, the use of AI should be consistent with the expectations set out in the Standards of Conduct and the Appropriate Use Policy for all BC Public Service employees. The benefit of an AI tool depends on its careful and responsible use.

Employees are encouraged to be curious about gen AI, expand their understanding of how these tools work and can be used, and use them within the parameters set out in this policy and supporting guidance.

Application

This policy applies to all BC Public Service employees.

Policy

1. Protect sensitive information

Employees may put confidential information into gen AI tools available to them as part of the BC Public Service’s agreement with Microsoft, like Copilot Chat.

• When using tools like Copilot Chat, employees must log in using their IDIR

Employees must not put any confidential information, including personal information, into publicly available gen AI tools like ChatGPT.

2. Output review

Employees who use gen AI tools must review the outputs to ensure they are factually accurate, complete and up-to-date.

Gen AI tools provide sources for content, but those sources may not be real or correct. There may also be copyright or intellectual property considerations.

3. Standards of inclusion, respect and style

Employees who use gen AI tools must review and edit the output text to ensure the language is inclusive, respectful and aligns with government style guides and other writing standards.