Bradford factor calculator
The Bradford factor is S × S × D: the number of separate absences, squared, multiplied by the total days absent. One ten-day illness scores 10. Ten single days scattered across the year score 1,000, even though the days lost are exactly the same.
Fill in every field to see the result.
How to use it
Step 1
Count the spells. Each separate absence is one spell however long it lasted, so a three-day illness counts once.
Step 2
Add up the total days absent across those spells, over the same rolling period. Most policies use 52 weeks.
Step 3
If your absence policy sets a review point, enter it. Enter 0 to see the score on its own. Trigger points are company policy, so the calculator doesn't pick one for you.
Step 4
Read the score beside the single-spell figure. The gap between the two shows how much of the score comes from short, frequent absence.
Questions people ask
What is a high Bradford factor score?
High is whatever your absence policy says it is. Employers that use the score usually write a set of trigger points into the policy and start with an informal conversation at the first one. Put yours in the review field and apply it the same way to everyone.
Why does the Bradford factor punish short absences?
Because the number of spells is squared. Short, frequent absences are harder to plan around than one long one, since each needs cover at short notice. Ten days in one spell score 10. The same ten days as five two-day spells score 250.
Should long-term illness count in the score?
Most employers take out absence linked to a disability, pregnancy or a known long-term condition and review those cases by hand. Remove them before you count spells and days. Your own adviser can confirm which exclusions apply where you employ people.