Mintra, a provider of digital learning and workforce management solutions for safety-critical industries, has launched two new interactive online training courses to help organisations and employees prepare for the European Union's AI Act, which comes into force on 1 August 2026.

The EU AI Act, formally adopted in 2024 as the world's first comprehensive legal framework for artificial intelligence, establishes a risk-based framework intended to ensure that AI technologies are used safely and transparently, placing greater responsibility on organisations to implement appropriate oversight and governance. The legislation categorises AI systems by risk level—ranging from minimal to unacceptable—with stringent obligations attached to high-risk applications and outright bans on certain uses such as social scoring and manipulative practices. Non-compliance can carry substantial penalties, with fines of up to €35 million or 7% of global annual turnover for the most serious violations.

Mintra's eLearning courses were developed in collaboration with legal experts from the Nordic law firm Schjødt. They are designed to support the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace by providing the legal and regulatory insight needed to meet emerging compliance obligations. The first course offers general AI Act awareness suitable for any organisation using AI across all sectors, while the second focuses specifically on the maritime and offshore industries. The launch comes as organisations across the EU and beyond assess their readiness for the Act's phased implementation timeline, with different provisions applying at successive intervals.

In safety-critical industries such as maritime and offshore, the responsible use of AI is becoming increasingly important as AI-enabled technologies are adopted across areas including navigation, maintenance, and operational planning. Without appropriate governance and human oversight, organisations risk overreliance on AI-generated outputs, inconsistent decision-making, and potential compliance challenges. Building awareness of both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with AI is essential to ensuring these technologies deliver their intended benefits safely and effectively.

Luca Tosoni, Managing Associate and Avvocato (EØS-advokat) at Schjødt, stated: "Our collaboration on the AI Awareness course has underscored the vital importance of understanding the EU AI Act, especially within the maritime industry. As AI technologies rapidly transform maritime operations, this course empowers organisations to stay ahead of regulatory requirements and innovate in a manner that is responsible and forward-thinking. Establishing this strong foundation is key to earning lasting trust and delivering tangible value for organisations and society alike."

The first course, MGM-236 AI Awareness – Understanding the EU AI Act, is a 25-minute introduction to the legislation and its implications for everyday workplace AI use. Designed for professionals at all levels, it covers AI risk classifications, prohibited practices, and the responsibilities placed on organisations deploying high-risk AI systems. The course is relevant for employees who use, manage, or make decisions about AI systems in the workplace, helping them understand their legal and ethical responsibilities. By promoting transparent and accountable AI practices across the workforce, it supports organisations in reducing legal and operational risks while encouraging informed and responsible AI adoption.

The second course, MGM-237 AI in Practice – Maritime and Offshore Sectors, runs for 30 minutes and builds on the foundation of the first by examining the real-world application of AI within maritime and offshore environments, where safety, human oversight, and regulatory compliance are critical. It is designed for maritime and offshore professionals, including seafarers, operators, and supervisors who interact with AI systems in daily operations. The course explores practical scenarios and the challenges associated with implementing AI in safety-critical settings, providing learners with a better understanding of both the opportunities and limitations of AI to enable safer and more informed decision-making.

Jessica Suessmilch, Digital Learning Development Manager at Mintra and former seafarer, said: "Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform maritime and offshore operations, improving efficiency, supporting better decision-making and helping people work more safely. However, these benefits will only be realised if AI is introduced responsibly, with the right training, understanding and oversight in place. It is also important to avoid complacency: AI should support human expertise, not replace the judgement and experience that remain essential in safety-critical environments."

She added: "Successful adoption of new technology depends on the confidence and capability of the people using it. As regulations develop, building AI awareness and understanding across the workforce will be critical. These courses give organisations and their crews the knowledge they need to adopt AI safely and effectively, while maintaining trust, accountability, operational safety and compliance."

The courses are available now on TrainingPortal.com and Mintra.com. Kelly White, Course Manager, can be contacted for further information.

Source: Mintra