Bradford Factor Calculator
Evaluates employee absence patterns to identify potentially problematic short-term absences
Separate occasions the employee was absent
Total number of days absent across all spells
S x S x D where S = spells and D = total days absent
Assessment based on the Bradford Factor score
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bradford Factor?
The Bradford Factor is a formula (S x S x D) that measures the impact of employee absences, where S is the number of separate absence instances and D is total days absent. It weights frequent short absences more heavily than single long absences, as multiple short absences are more disruptive.
What is a good Bradford Factor score?
Scores under 50 are generally acceptable. Scores of 50-124 may trigger an informal discussion. Scores of 125-399 indicate a concerning pattern warranting formal review. Scores above 400 typically require immediate management action. Thresholds vary by organization.
Why does the Bradford Factor penalize frequent short absences?
Frequent short absences are more disruptive to teams than a single long absence because each instance requires rescheduling, handoffs, and adjustment. A colleague absent for 10 separate days creates 10 disruptions, while someone off for 10 consecutive days creates just one.
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