Bradford Factor Calculator
Use this tool to calculate an employee’s Bradford score using the standard formula: B = S² × D.
What is the Bradford Scale?
The Bradford Scale (also called the Bradford Factor) is a simple method organizations use to measure absence patterns. It gives extra weight to frequent short absences compared with the same total days taken in one long period.
For example, ten single-day absences are usually more disruptive to day-to-day operations than one continuous ten-day absence. The Bradford model captures that by squaring the number of absence spells.
Bradford formula
The formula is:
B = S² × D
- B = Bradford score
- S = number of absence spells
- D = total days absent
Because S is squared, increasing the number of separate absences quickly pushes the score upward.
Quick examples
- 1 spell, 10 days: 1² × 10 = 10
- 2 spells, 10 days: 2² × 10 = 40
- 5 spells, 10 days: 5² × 10 = 250
Same number of total days, very different scores.
Typical Bradford score bands
There is no universal legal threshold. Each organization defines its own policy. A common internal guide looks like this:
| Bradford Score | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0–49 | Low concern |
| 50–199 | Monitor pattern |
| 200–399 | High concern / manager review |
| 400+ | Very high concern / formal action may be triggered |
How to use this calculator
Step 1: Count spells
Enter how many separate absences occurred in your tracking period (often rolling 52 weeks).
Step 2: Total absent days
Enter the total number of days absent across all spells.
Step 3: Calculate
Click Calculate Score to see:
- Your Bradford score
- The formula substitution
- A general risk band indicator
Important limitations
The Bradford Scale is useful for spotting patterns, but it should not be the only decision tool. Consider context and fairness before any action.
- It can penalize people with recurring medical conditions.
- It does not reflect reasons or severity of illness.
- It should be reviewed alongside attendance conversations and support plans.
- Local employment laws and company policy always take priority.
Best-practice use for managers and HR
- Use Bradford scores as an early signal, not an automatic verdict.
- Combine score trends with return-to-work interviews.
- Document reasonable adjustments and health-related accommodations.
- Apply policies consistently across teams.
- Review thresholds periodically to avoid unintended bias.
FAQ
Is a higher Bradford score always bad?
Not necessarily. A high score means frequent absence events. It indicates disruption risk, but the underlying reason still matters.
What period should I use?
Many employers use a rolling 12-month window. Use the period defined in your attendance policy.
Can I use half days?
Yes. This calculator accepts decimals for absent days, so you can enter values like 0.5 or 1.5 where policy allows.
Note: This calculator is for educational and internal planning use, not legal advice.