To properly wear a hard hat, ensure it meets the required safety standards such as CSA Group Standard Z94.1 or ANSI Standard Z89.1 [1]. The hard hat should be equipped with a retention system to secure it to your head, especially in conditions where it might fall off [2]. Adjust the fit for comfort while maintaining proper positioning to ensure it doesn't fall off during work [3]. A chin strap may be necessary in some cases [3]. Before each use, inspect the hard hat for any defects and report any issues to your employer [4].