[Excerpt from publisher]ICN is clear that a safe work environment in the health sector significantly contributes to patient safety and supports positive patient outcomes. To that end ICN promotes the development and application of international, national and local policies or instruments that will safeguard the nurses' right to a safe work environment, including continuing education, immunisation and protective clothing/equipment. ICN reconfirms its mandate to encourage research in this area and to circulate relevant information on a regular basis to appropriate stakeholders.