Bradford Formula | Meaning and Definition

What is Bradford formula HR?

The Bradford factor is used to quantify and measure absenteeism within an organization. It is typically used as part of human resource management and can be a valuable tool in improving attendance levels. 

The Bradford factor (absenteeism formula) works by assigning points for each instance of absenteeism. The more absences an employee has, the more points they will accumulate. This allows managers to quickly and easily identify patterns of absenteeism and staff members who may be at risk of having excessive absences. 

The Bradford factor can be a useful tool in managing attendance. However, it is important to use it correctly. Points should only be assigned for legitimate instances of absence, such as sickness or personal emergency. 

Calculation of Absenteeism Formula

The Bradford Factor, or “BF”, measures the relative number of short-term and long-term absences from work. It’s calculated by multiplying the number of sick days in the past year by the severity rating of those days, then dividing that figure by the total number of days worked in the past year. The formula is S²×D=B. 

Pros of Bradford Factor

Bradford University School of Management created it in the early 1980s to assess how many short-term absences an employee had compared to long-term absences. 

There are several pros to using the Bradford Factor: 

1. The BF measures both intensity and duration of absences, making it more comprehensive than other metrics.
2. The BF can be used to identify employees who are at risk for long-term absence.
3. The BF can help managers better understand absenteeism patterns within their organization.
4. The BF can motivate employees to perform better.