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What is the Bradford Factor?

Understanding absenteeism metrics. Use our formula simulator to see how frequent short absences impact your organization.

Bradford Factor Simulator

Absence Spells (S)
5
Total Days (D)
10
Bradford Score
250
S² x D
Action Level
Warning

Standard Threshold Actions

0 - 100 Points

No action required • Regular pattern

Healthy

101 - 400 Points

Verbal warning • Monitor frequency

Warning

401 - 600 Points

Written warning • Coaching session

Action

600+ Points

Formal disciplinary hearing

Critical
User
User
User
User

Trusted by HR analysts

Definition

The Bradford Factor is a formula used in Human Resources to measure employee absenteeism. The theory behind it is that short, frequent, and unplanned absences are more disruptive to a business than longer, continuous absences.

The Formula

S² × D = Bradford Score
S (Spells)Total number of separate absence periods over a set period (usually 52 weeks).
D (Days)Total number of days of absence over that same period.

Example Calculation

Consider two employees who were both absent for 10 days in a year:

  • Employee A: One absence of 10 days.
    Calculation: 1² × 10 = 10 Points
  • Employee B: Ten absences of 1 day each.
    Calculation: 10² × 10 = 1000 Points

Despite missing the same number of days, Employee B has a score 100x higher, indicating a severe disruption pattern.

Automate Bradford Scoring

Stop calculating this manually. Kiework's Leave Management System tracks the Bradford Factor for every employee in real-time and alerts you when thresholds are breached.

Explore Leave Module