Bradford Factor Calculator UK
Calculate a Bradford Factor score to measure the impact of short-term absence on your team or understand your own absence record.
The Bradford Factor is a formula used by UK employers to measure the disruptive impact of short-term, intermittent absences. It is calculated using the formula B = S² × D, where S is the number of separate absence spells and D is the total number of days absent in a rolling 12-month period.
The formula squares the number of spells, which means frequent short absences score much higher than one longer absence of the same total duration. For example, five one-day absences scores 25 (5² × 1 = 25), whereas one five-day absence scores only 5 (1² × 5 = 5).
Many UK employers use Bradford Factor scores to trigger absence review meetings or formal action. However, the Bradford Factor is not a legal test — employers must still follow a fair process and must treat disability-related absences carefully under the Equality Act 2010.
The Bradford Factor formula
B = S² × D
S = number of separate absence spells | D = total days absent
Your Absences (rolling 12 months)
Enter each separate period of absence and how many days it lasted. Add one row per absence spell.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bradford Factor?
The Bradford Factor is a formula (B = S² × D) used by employers to measure the impact of short-term, intermittent absence. It was developed at Bradford University in the 1980s and is widely used in UK HR management. The formula weights frequent short absences more heavily than longer continuous absences.
What Bradford Factor score triggers formal action?
There is no universal threshold — different employers set different trigger points. Common informal benchmarks are: below 45 (low concern), 45–99 (informal discussion), 100–199 (formal review), 200–399 (written warning consideration), 400+ (potential dismissal consideration). Your employer's absence management policy should specify their thresholds.
Can an employer dismiss someone based on their Bradford Factor score alone?
No. A Bradford Factor score alone is not sufficient grounds for dismissal. The employer must still follow a fair procedure — including investigation, a formal hearing, and the right of appeal. Dismissal without a fair process risks an unfair dismissal claim at Employment Tribunal.
Are disability-related absences included in the Bradford Factor?
Employers should handle disability-related absences with caution. Including them in Bradford Factor calculations without considering reasonable adjustments could amount to disability discrimination under the Equality Act 2010. Employers should take specialist advice before taking action against an employee whose absences are linked to a disability.
How can I reduce my Bradford Factor score?
Since the formula squares the number of spells, reducing the frequency of absence has the biggest impact on your score — even more than reducing the total days absent. One longer period of absence will score significantly less than multiple short absences of the same total duration.