What do the 'two-man rule' procedures require?

The 'two-man rule' is a critical safety and security concept employed in handling nuclear weapons and materials to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate the risk of accidents. This protocol dictates that for any sensitive operation involving nuclear armaments, there must be two authorized personnel present.

This requirement serves several important functions: it acts as a safeguard against mistakes or malicious actions by ensuring that any critical decision or action related to the handling of nuclear materials is subject to oversight and mutual verification. The presence of two individuals fosters accountability and provides a system of checks and balances — if one individual were to act improperly, the other can intervene or record the event, thereby enhancing security and safety.

In summary, the necessity of having two authorized personnel present reflects the standard operating procedures designed to uphold nuclear surety and protect against both operational errors and potential security breaches.