Bradford Formula Calculator
Calculate your Bradford score using the standard formula: B = S² × D
Tip: Use total absence events for S and total days absent for D within the same review period.
What is the Bradford Formula?
The Bradford Formula (also called the Bradford Factor) is a method many organizations use to track patterns of absence. It puts more weight on frequent short absences than on one long absence.
The formula is:
B = S² × D
- B = Bradford score
- S = number of absence spells (separate occasions)
- D = total days absent in the same period
Because S is squared, repeated short absences can increase the score quickly.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the number of absence spells (for example, 4 separate sick leave events).
- Enter the total days absent across those spells (for example, 10 days in total).
- Click Calculate Score.
- Review the computed Bradford score and interpretation band.
Worked examples
Example 1: One long absence
If someone is absent once for 10 days, then:
B = 1² × 10 = 10
Example 2: Frequent short absences
If someone has 5 separate absences adding up to 10 days:
B = 5² × 10 = 250
Same total days, very different score. This shows how the Bradford Formula emphasizes frequency.
Typical Bradford score interpretation
Organizations choose their own trigger points. A common interpretation looks like this:
| Bradford Score | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0–49 | Low concern |
| 50–199 | Moderate concern; monitor trend |
| 200–499 | High concern; review may be triggered |
| 500+ | Very high concern; formal process may begin |
Important limitations
The Bradford Formula is useful for spotting patterns, but it should never be the only decision tool. Good absence management also considers context.
- Medical conditions and disabilities may require reasonable adjustments.
- Mental health, caregiving demands, and workplace stress can affect attendance.
- A score does not explain why absences occur.
- Policies should be applied fairly and consistently.
Best practices for employers and managers
Use score + conversation
Treat the Bradford score as a signal to check in, not as automatic proof of misconduct.
Set clear policy windows
Define whether the score is measured over 26 or 52 weeks and apply the same period to everyone.
Document and support
Track absences carefully and offer support plans where needed. Early support is often more effective than punitive action.
Frequently asked questions
Does one long sickness period always produce a lower score?
Usually yes, because the formula penalizes multiple separate absences by squaring S.
Can I use half-days in this calculator?
Yes. Enter total absence days as decimals (for example, 7.5).
Is there a legal “correct” Bradford threshold?
No universal threshold exists. Organizations set internal trigger points based on policy and local requirements.
Bottom line
This Bradford Formula Calculator gives a quick, accurate score from absence spells and total days. Use it to identify attendance patterns, then combine results with fair policy, context, and supportive management.