Bradford Factor Calculator

What is the Bradford Factor?

The Bradford Factor is a human resources calculation used to measure employee absenteeism. The formula places greater weight on frequent, short-term absences than on occasional long-term absences, based on the theory that short unplanned absences cause greater operational disruption.

Bradford Factor Formula

The Bradford Factor score is calculated as:

B = S² × D

B: Bradford Factor score
S: Total number of absence spells (instances) in a 52-week period
D: Total number of days absent in the same 52-week period

Standard Action Thresholds

Organizations often establish action triggers based on Bradford scores:

0 – 49: Low risk, no action needed
50 – 124: Informal conversation or verbal warning
125 – 399: First formal written warning
400 – 599: Final written warning
600+: Consideration for disciplinary action or dismissal

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the formula square the number of spells?

Squaring the number of spells heavily penalizes frequent short absences. For example, 10 single-day absences yield a score of 1000 (10² × 10), whereas one 10-day absence yields a score of 10 (1² × 10).

What time window does the Bradford Factor use?

It typically evaluates absence records over a rolling 52-week (1-year) period.

Does the Bradford Factor apply to disability or pregnancy leave?

In many jurisdictions, HR policies exclude statutory medical leave, disability-related absences, and maternity/paternity leave from Bradford calculations to remain compliant with employment law.

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What is the Bradford Factor?

Bradford Factor Formula

Standard Action Thresholds

Frequently Asked Questions

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