Bradford Factor Calculator

Calculate the Bradford Factor absence score from the number and length of absences.

Separate absences (spells)	4
Total days absent	6 days
Trigger points (your policy)	51, 201, 401, 651

Separate absences (spells)

Total days absent

days

Trigger points (your policy)

Bradford Factor

4² × 6 = 96. The same 6 days taken as one absence would score 6; as 6 separate days, 216. Next trigger point: 201.

Same days off, different patterns

Pattern	Score
1 spell totalling 6 days	6
2 spells totalling 6 days	24
3 spells totalling 6 days	54
5 spells totalling 6 days	150

About the Bradford Factor Calculator

The Bradford Factor (B = S² × D) weights frequent short absences more heavily than one long absence, because they're more disruptive. It's used by some HR teams as a prompt for a conversation, usually over a rolling 52 weeks. Employers set their own trigger points; 51, 201, 401 and 651 are common examples. It shouldn't be applied to disability-related or protected absences, and using it rigidly risks discrimination claims.

The formula

B = S² × D (S = spells of absence, D = total days)

Worked example

Example: Bradford Factor = 112

Inputs: Separate absences (spells): 4; Total days absent: 7 days; Trigger points (your policy): 51, 201, 401, 651.
Formula: B = S² × D (S = spells of absence, D = total days)
Result: Bradford Factor = 112

Things to keep in mind

A screening measure; employment law and your own policy apply.

Questions people ask

Why square the spells?

To reflect the extra disruption of frequent unplanned absences.

Over what period?

Usually the last 52 weeks.