Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that its Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) has resulted in significant reductions in morbidity and mortality. Despite its proven success, meaningful compliance with the Surgical Safety Checklist initiative has been low. Aims: The authors sought to identify and explore published research on factors that enhance compliance with the SSC within surgical team members. Methods: A review of the literature published between January 2017 and January 2021 was undertaken. Six databases were searched, and 1340 studies were screened for eligibility. The 17 studies included were critically appraised using the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool. Findings: Three main themes were identified: training and innovations; process adaptations and team leadership. Conclusion: This review of the literature draws attention to the complexities of checklist compliance and identifies the need for training, leadership and adaptation to new safety processes.