Objective Healthcare workers in Pacific Island Countries face unique workload and infection control hazards because of limited resources, cultural practices and local disease burden. In the context of COVID‐19, concern around healthcare worker safety escalated in the region, triggering the need for a relevant resource. Methods We describe a collaborative, participatory action‐research approach with a diverse range of local clinicians in Pacific Island Countries to design, develop and implement a practical guideline assisting clinicians to work safely during the pandemic. Results The resulting Health Worker Safety Guide for COVID‐19 is a relevant and usable protocol developed using local knowledge and now available in several Pacific languages. Conclusion We recommend a creative approach to facilitate meaningful communication with this group of clinicians, including low resolution technology and use of social media platforms.