[ErrantX]

To be honest I think there were two seperate things there; the macho attitude to radiation exposure, and the mistake (understandably) made by a new team member.

The former is just a defence mechanism, probably related to them being in the forces where the alternative (expressing concern or fear) doesn't fit. But I don't think it would translate into "go on, lean out over there and you'll be top of the chart this month!!"

[Padraig]

There's plenty of room for 'respecting dangerous invisible shit that can kill you' between those two extremes of being a scaredy-cat and acting macho.

[ErrantX]

I'm struggling to see the jokey and macho competition described as anything more than camaraderie, certainly not an extreme or uncommon attitude. I don't think it means they are ignoring the radiation, just enjoying (rather than dwelling) on the risk associated with their chosen career.

The story conflates these two different incidents, but really they are unrelated. And if the takeaway you have is that they were blase about the risks, well, that isn't at all how I read it. Indeed, it was clear that it was taken seriously.

Steve just didn't have the same attitude and so quit, that is all :)