Introduction Ageing populations in high income countries, have the potential to greatly increase the proportion of retired people in relation to workers. Recent policy changes to extend working lives have focused on increases in state pensions ages. However, work-related factors may also present an opportunity for employers to design effective interventions to delay retirement.

Objectives We conducted a systematic review of published studies that investigated the relationship between work-related factors and the decision to retire.

Methods Studies that investigated retirement after 1st January 2000 at ages 50+ were included, whilst studies investigating intention to retire or transitions to unemployment and/or disability retirement were excluded. Six online databases were searched and results were independently screened against the inclusion criteria by two researchers. Data extraction and risk of bias checked were carried out independently by two researchers. Reference lists of eligible studies were screened for further studies.

Results Searches returned 4,995 references. Results were screened and 30 studies were identified that met inclusion criteria. 28 studies were assessed as low/medium risk of bias, however 19 of the studies had limited generalisability to cohorts of contemporary workers. 169 work-related exposures had been investigated in relation to retirement outcomes. The exposures were grouped into 19 categories to enable comparison and synthesis. The included studies were heterogenous in terms of outcome definitions and measurement of exposures. However, appreciation at work and higher job control consistently associated with a decreased risk of retirement. The review also highlighted limited evidence that: age discrimination: having a positive culture of working beyond SPA: flexible working hours: and job prospects may influence retirement.

Conclusion Increasing worker's job control and perception of appreciation at work have may delay retirement decisions. Further research is required to explore the effect of work-related factors on retirement in cohorts of contemporary workers.