Does this requirement apply to all businesses?

It depends on your AI use case. Requirements for high-risk AI are stricter, but some obligations like AI literacy apply to everyone using AI.

When does this take effect?

Different provisions have different timelines. AI literacy and prohibited practices are already in effect. High-risk requirements apply from August 2026. Check the specific article for its effective date.

Where can I find more detailed guidance?

The EU AI Office publishes guidance documents. Your national AI authority and industry associations may also provide practical guidance tailored to your sector.

Quick answer

Article 69 encourages the development of voluntary codes of practice to help businesses comply with the EU AI Act. Following a recognized code of practice may help demonstrate your compliance efforts.

Updated June 2026 · MmowW AI Compliance

Article 69: Codes of Practice — Industry Standards for AI Compliance

What Are Codes of Practice

Codes of practice are voluntary guidelines developed by industry groups, professional associations, and stakeholders to help businesses comply with the EU AI Act. Think of them as practical playbooks — they take the legal requirements and translate them into step-by-step guidance that businesses can actually follow.

The EU AI Act specifically encourages the creation of these codes, recognizing that different industries have different needs and challenges when it comes to AI compliance. A code of practice for healthcare AI will look different from one for retail AI.

Why They Matter for Small Businesses

For small businesses, codes of practice are particularly valuable because they simplify compliance. Instead of trying to interpret legal text yourself, you can follow an industry-recognized code that has already been vetted by experts. Following a code of practice can also serve as evidence of good faith compliance efforts if regulators come knocking.

These codes typically cover practical matters like how to document your AI use, what training to provide staff, how to conduct risk assessments, and what oversight processes to put in place. They translate legal requirements into business language.

What Codes Cover

Codes of practice under the EU AI Act may address the application of AI system requirements, the obligations of providers and deployers, voluntary commitments by providers of non-high-risk AI, the implementation of AI literacy measures, and environmental sustainability of AI systems. They provide concrete examples and templates that businesses can adapt to their specific circumstances.

The European Commission is tasked with encouraging and facilitating the development of these codes, working with member states, stakeholders, and the AI Office.

How to Use Them

Check if your industry association has published or is developing a code of practice for AI use. If one exists, review it and adapt it to your business. If none exists for your industry, look for general codes of practice that apply across sectors. Document your adoption of the code and how you're implementing its recommendations. Stay updated on new codes as they're developed — this space is evolving rapidly.

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulatory requirements change frequently — verify current rules with official sources. Built by Sawai Gyoseishoshi Office, Hiroshima, Japan.