Bradford score: is it still relevant?

The role of trigger points in sickness absence management 

Summary:

The Bradford score is a simple weighted measure of sickness absence used by many organisations as a trigger point for sickness absence management. However, evidence for its effectiveness is scant. Roger Kline and Cameron Black make the case for ditching the Bradford score and adopting smarter approaches to absence management.

Sickness absence (SA) is an important consideration for employees, managers, employers, and occupational health (OH) providers. Most employees suffer common health problems at some time during their working career and may face a decision on their fitness for work (FFW).

Managing SA starts with measuring and reporting it. The system of measurement often reflects the size, complexity and expectations of organisations. Managers need to measure and respond locally to its impact. Senior leaders will need to measure and respond to wider organisational impacts of SA on productivity and performance; in the NHS, this includes the quality of healthcare provided…

Roger Kline is a research fellow and consultant on workforce culture, at the Business School, Middlesex University, London.

Cameron Black is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist at the Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust occupational health and wellbeing department.

Author: Kline R, Black C

Tags absence

Occupational Health at Work April/May 2024 (vol. 20/6) pp22-26

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