[Robert A Cook PE]

No. Wearing a backwards hardhat (even IF the inside suspension strap is itself reversed) is not allowed on construction sites. OSHA reportable: Fines, suspension, write-up by the feds and by insurance groups for the company if the workers do.

Yes, in years past, “a few” workers tried that stunt as a “FU” to their supervisors and to the safety staff. It is a loud visible warning sign that the wearer is NOT taking their job seriously.

[Christopher]

OSHA has stated that a hard hat can be worn backwards as long as the manufacturer has performed it's Z89.1 certification in that configuration. They even stamp a specific symbol onto the shell that indicates it can be worn either way.

Some manufacturers sell hard hats with suspensions that swivel depending on how you want to wear it.