About the Bradford Factor Calculator
This Bradford Factor calculator scores an employee's absence record with the standard formula B = S² × D, where S is the number of separate absence spells and D is the total days absent, normally over a rolling 52 weeks. Enter the totals, or list the length of each absence, to get the score, the trigger level it reaches and how close the employee is to the next one.
The Bradford Factor is used by HR teams and line managers, mostly in the UK, to flag frequent short-term absence, which tends to disrupt work more than one longer absence. Because spells are squared, ten one-day absences score 1,000 while a single ten-day absence scores only 10. The comparison chart shows how the same number of days scores under different patterns.
Trigger points are set by each employer, not by law. The defaults here (51, 201, 401 and 651) are a widely used example scheme, and you can change them to match your own absence policy. A score should start a conversation, not decide an outcome. Absence linked to disability, pregnancy or other protected reasons needs separate treatment, so check your policy and take advice before acting on a score.
With the default inputs, the bradford factor score is 54. Change any value above to recalculate instantly.
How to use the bradford factor calculator
- 1Choose whether to enter totals or list each absence.
- 2Enter the number of separate absences and the total days, usually over the last 52 weeks.
- 3Set the trigger scores to match your absence policy, or keep the common defaults.
- 4Read the score and trigger level, then use the chart to see how the pattern affects it.
Formula and method
S is the number of separate spells of absence and D is the total number of days absent, both counted over a set rolling period, usually 52 weeks. Squaring the number of spells means frequent short absences score far more than the same number of days taken in one block. The thinking is that repeated unplanned absence is harder to cover and plan around than one long, known absence.
The score has no legal meaning by itself. Employers choose the trigger points in their absence policy, often a four-stage ladder like the defaults here, and usually exclude or adjust for disability-related absence, pregnancy-related sickness and other protected absence. Half days can be counted as 0.5 days. Each spell counts once, however many days it lasts.
- B
- Bradford Factor score
- S
- Number of separate absence spells in the period
- D
- Total days absent in the period
Worked examples
Three short absences totalling six days
With 3 spells and 6 days the score is 3² × 6 = 9 × 6 = 54, just past the first trigger of 51. Another 1-day absence would make it 4² × 7 = 112. If all six days had been one spell the score would be just 6.
One ten-day absence
A single spell of 10 days scores 1² × 10 = 10, well below any trigger. This is why the Bradford Factor treats one longer illness more leniently than repeated short absences.
Ten separate one-day absences
The same 10 days taken as 10 single days scores 10² × 10 = 1,000. That is a hundred times the single-spell score and above the highest default trigger of 651.
Listing each absence
Four absences lasting 1, 1, 2 and 1 days give S = 4 and D = 5, so B = 16 × 5 = 80. That passes the first trigger, and the employee would be 121 points from the second.
Frequently asked questions
How is the Bradford Factor calculated?+
Square the number of separate absence spells (S) and multiply by the total days absent (D): B = S² × D. For example, 3 spells totalling 6 days gives 9 × 6 = 54. Most employers count absences over a rolling 52-week period.
What is a bad Bradford Factor score?+
It depends on the employer's policy. A widely used example scheme sets triggers at 51 (informal review or verbal warning), 201 (written warning), 401 (final warning) and 651 (dismissal considered). Others use different numbers, so always check your own absence policy.
Is the Bradford Factor legal in the UK?+
Yes, employers can use it. They must still apply it fairly and make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees under the Equality Act 2010. Pregnancy-related absence should be excluded. Applying triggers automatically without looking at the reasons risks discrimination and unfair dismissal claims.
Why does the Bradford Factor penalise short absences?+
Frequent, unplanned short absences are harder to cover than one long absence and can point to problems with engagement, health or workload. Squaring the number of spells makes the pattern visible: ten one-day absences score 1,000, but one ten-day absence scores just 10.
Do half days count?+
Yes, most policies count a half day as 0.5 days and as a separate spell if it is a separate absence. Enter 0.5 in the list of absences. Lateness is usually handled under a separate policy.
Results are general estimates and not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction — consult a qualified attorney.