Which of the following must be prevented according to nuclear safety standards?

Preventing the inadvertent launch of nuclear weapons is a cornerstone of nuclear safety standards. This focus is critical because even a single mistaken launch could lead to catastrophic consequences, including unintended nuclear war and severe loss of life, environmental devastation, and long-term geopolitical instability. Nuclear safety protocols are designed to ensure that stringent measures are in place, such as comprehensive checks, fail-safes, and strict protocols for handling and controlling nuclear weapons. These precautions are necessary to minimize the potential for human error, technical malfunction, or unauthorized access, which could lead to an accidental launch.

In contrast, the development of new nuclear capabilities, while a significant aspect of nuclear strategy and policy, is not directly addressed in safety standards. Additionally, maintenance of nuclear equipment is a necessary practice to ensure the reliability and safety of nuclear systems, and training exercises, when conducted under strict guidelines, are essential for preparedness and safety. Both of these activities can be conducted without compromising nuclear safety as long as they adhere to established protocols. However, preventing inadvertent launches transcends these practices, emphasizing the absolute need for vigilance in all scenarios involving nuclear weapons.