I see OSHA regs quoted and arguments ensue over whether they apply. OSHA regs are often superseded by more stringent regulation by states, school districts, and even insurance carriers. Furthermore, even if OSHA doesn't apply to non-employees, shouldn't volunteers and students be SAFE? Those regs should be a MINIMUM standard in every work and school environment, whether they legally apply or not.
Furthermore, we can argue over whether being harnessed into the basket is a good idea, but most of the time it is required. Those rules, like most safety regs, were written in blood and hundreds of accidents were studied as they were created. We don't always know better than the regulators.
I think it is great that they want to train you. Take the training and buy some harnesses (in a variety of sizes), lanyards, and hard hats. (Hard hats for the ground crew, too.) The rental company may charge a small fee for the training, but it is brief and easy.
Furthermore, we can argue over whether being harnessed into the basket is a good idea, but most of the time it is required. Those rules, like most safety regs, were written in blood and hundreds of accidents were studied as they were created. We don't always know better than the regulators.
I think it is great that they want to train you. Take the training and buy some harnesses (in a variety of sizes), lanyards, and hard hats. (Hard hats for the ground crew, too.) The rental company may charge a small fee for the training, but it is brief and easy.