The implications of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2, henceforth described as COVID-19) on healthcare systems globally are proving to be immense, with unforeseen impacts that are still to fully emerge. Local and national healthcare systems, hospitals and healthcare workers have been overwhelmed by the needs of patients and limited by weaknesses in resources, staff capacity and distribution networks. These circumstances impact the ergonomic conditions within which healthcare staff work and subsequently their behavioural responses.In this commentary, we argue that urgent research is needed globally to bridge the evidence gap that exists on how best to support healthcare workers with the repercussions of working on the frontline of a pandemic. Leadership on the frontline is what matters. It is not only what policies, guidelines and checklists are in place to support nurses, doctors and healthcare workers, it is the actions and behaviours of their frontline and local leaders in implementing initiatives that really make the difference.Recognizing that the leadership style, organizational culture and model of successful implementation are inextricable is the first step to ensure sustainable interventions to support healthcare workers' well-being will follow.