Free tool
Bradford Factor calculator
The Bradford Factor scores absence patterns as S² × D; spells squared, times days. It weights frequent short absences far more heavily than one long one. Enter your numbers below.
Number of separate occasions absent in the rolling period (usually the last 52 weeks).
Total working days lost across all those spells.
Enter spells and days to calculate the score.
A score needs accurate records and an individual review. Do not use it to automatically trigger disciplinary action. Consider relevant circumstances and appropriate advice, including disability or pregnancy related absence.
Want the score calculated continuously, for every employee, without the spreadsheet? TeamZap tracks Bradford Factor automatically ; or read the full guide with worked examples.
Frequently asked questions
How is the Bradford Factor calculated?
B = S² × D, where S is the number of separate absence spells in a rolling period (usually 52 weeks) and D is the total days absent. Ten single days scores 1,000; one ten-day spell scores just 10.
What is a good Bradford Factor score?
There is no universal good score or statutory threshold. Review the records, policy and individual circumstances. A score should not automatically trigger disciplinary action.
Is the Bradford Factor a legal requirement in the UK?
No; it is a widely used management metric, not legislation. If you use it, apply it consistently and treat disability- and pregnancy-related absences separately and carefully.
Keep absence records ready for a careful review
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