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Document And Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
Document And Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2011	Feb. 14, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2011
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2011
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES CO
Entity Central Index Key	0000066570
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		36,692,852
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 1.1
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No

Consolidated Statement Of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
Consolidated Statement Of Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Consolidated Statement Of Income [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 1,173,227	$ 976,631	$ 909,991
Other income	5,381	6,037	5,860
Total revenues	1,178,608	982,668	915,851
Costs and expenses
Cost of products sold	702,991	606,532	573,266
Selling, general and administrative	306,367	262,940	230,894
Research and development	39,245	32,784	28,781
Restructuring and other charges	8,559	14,121	11,378
Interest expense	14,117	8,707	7,080
Currency exchange losses (gains)	2,511	235	(888)
Total costs and expenses	1,073,790	925,319	850,511
Income before income taxes	104,818	57,349	65,340
Provision for income taxes	34,773	18,290	22,003
Net income	70,045	39,059	43,337
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(193)	(955)	(42)
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$ 69,852	$ 38,104	$ 43,295
Earnings per share attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company common shareholders
Basic	$ 1.91	$ 1.06	$ 1.21
Diluted	$ 1.87	$ 1.05	$ 1.21

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 59,938	$ 59,760
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $7,043 and $9,391	192,627	198,551
Inventories	141,475	150,581
Deferred tax assets	21,744	25,714
Income taxes receivable	13,769	12,936
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	29,296	29,847
Total current assets	458,849	477,389
Land	5,142	5,699
Buildings	104,575	112,144
Machinery and equipment	333,846	339,329
Construction in progress	13,472	15,905
Total	457,035	473,077
Less accumulated depreciation	(311,272)	(316,288)
Net property	145,763	156,789
Prepaid pension cost	58,075	121,631
Deferred tax assets	12,065	8,285
Goodwill	259,084	263,089
Other noncurrent assets	181,216	170,005
Total assets	1,115,052	1,197,188
Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt	8,263	10,163
Accounts payable	50,208	58,460
Employees' compensation	38,400	36,845
Insurance and product liability	15,738	18,401
Taxes on income	3,051	1,253
Other current liabilities	56,110	56,619
Total current liabilities	171,770	181,741
Long-Term Debt	334,046	367,094
Pensions and other employee benefits	124,310	126,479
Deferred tax liabilities	30,458	49,177
Other noncurrent liabilities	15,057	16,647
Total liabilities	675,641	741,138
Commitments and Contingencies
Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, 4 1/2% cumulative, $50 par value (callable at $52.50)	3,569	3,569
Common stock, no par value (shares outstanding: 2011-36,692,590 and 2010-36,519,726)	97,276	88,629
Stock compensation trust	(6,070)	(7,103)
Treasury shares, at cost	(266,231)	(265,606)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(103,184)	(44,316)
Retained earnings	708,306	676,195
Total Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders' equity	433,666	451,368
Noncontrolling interests	5,745	4,682
Total shareholders' equity	439,411	456,050
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 1,115,052	$ 1,197,188

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Consolidated Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Trade receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 7,043	$ 9,391
Percentage of cumulative preferred stock	4.50%	4.50%
Preferred stock, par value	$ 50	$ 50
Preferred stock, callable per share	52.50	52.50
Common stock, no par value
Common stock, shares outstanding	36,692,590	36,519,726

- Definition

The price per share at which the preferred stock of an entity that has priority over common stock in the distribution of dividends and in the event of liquidation of the entity is redeemed or may be called at. The redemption features of this preferred stock are solely within the control of the issuer.

+ References + Details

Consolidated Statement Of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Operating Activities
Net income	$ 70,045	$ 39,059	$ 43,337
Depreciation and amortization	32,866	29,192	27,362
Pensions	(4,967)	(6,391)	(2,655)
Net gain from investing activities-disposal of assets	(2,840)	(3,703)	(3,498)
Stock-based compensation	7,732	7,335	5,860
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)	8,800	7,162	(3,376)
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities	(24,130)	(32,493)	(11,185)
Currency exchange losses (gains)	2,511	235	(888)
Other, net	(1,823)	(3,125)	(674)
Operating cash flow before changes in working capital	88,194	37,271	54,283
Trade receivables	(217)	(10,191)	33,050
Inventories	(1,230)	(10,744)	47,105
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(1,030)	7,683	(11,171)
Income taxes receivable, prepaid expenses and other current assets	(459)	7,587	(2,421)
Increase (decrease) in working capital	(2,936)	(5,665)	66,563
Cash Flow From Operating Activities	85,258	31,606	120,846
Investing Activities
Capital expenditures	(30,390)	(25,024)	(25,737)
Disposal of assets	18,687	5,699	5,084
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired and other investing		(262,250)	(123)
Cash Flow From Investing Activities	(11,703)	(281,575)	(20,776)
Financing Activities
Proceeds from (payments on) short-term debt, net	137	(6,169)	(45,085)
Proceeds from long-term debt	164,000	325,000
Payments on long-term debt	(199,000)	(40,000)	(12,000)
Cash dividends paid	(37,741)	(35,928)	(34,524)
Company stock purchases	(624)	(7,572)	(206)
Exercise of stock options	1,316	7,809	255
Excess tax benefit (provision) related to stock plans	632	3,462	(386)
Cash Flow From Financing Activities	(71,280)	246,602	(91,946)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(2,097)	1,144	2,965
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	178	(2,223)	11,089
Beginning cash and cash equivalents	59,760	61,983	50,894
Ending cash and cash equivalents	59,938	59,760	61,983
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest payments	13,969	8,379	7,304
Income tax payments	$ 21,739	$ 25,383	$ 8,404

Consolidated Statement Of Changes In Retained Earnings And Other Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Beginning Balance	$ 456,050
Net income	70,045	$ 39,059	$ 43,337
Ending Balance	439,411	456,050
Components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:
Cumulative translation adjustments	829	15,479	13,911
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments	(104,013)	(59,795)	(59,767)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(103,184)	(44,316)	(45,856)
Retained Earnings [Member]
Beginning Balance	676,195	674,019	665,248
Net income	70,045	39,059	43,337
(Income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(193)	(955)	(42)
Common dividends	(37,699)	(35,886)	(34,482)
Preferred dividends	(42)	(42)	(42)
Ending Balance	708,306	676,195	674,019
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Member]
Beginning Balance	(44,316)	(45,856)	(74,412)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(15,980)	2,511	19,042
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, net of tax	(44,218)	(28)	10,895
(Income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,330	(943)	(1,381)
Ending Balance	(103,184)	(44,316)	(45,856)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Net income	70,045	39,059	43,337
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(15,980)	2,511	19,042
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, net of tax	(44,218)	(28)	10,895
Comprehensive income	9,847	41,542	73,274
(Income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,137	(1,898)	(1,423)
Comprehensive income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$ 10,984	$ 39,644	$ 71,851

Consolidated Statement Of Changes In Retained Earnings And Other Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, tax	$ 28,636	$ 205	$ 6,533

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Significant Accounting Policies	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Note 1—Significant Accounting Policies *Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the company and all subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation. Noncontrolling Interests—Noncontrolling interests reflect noncontrolling shareholders' original investments in certain consolidated subsidiaries and their proportionate share of the income and accumulated other comprehensive income of those subsidiaries. Currency Translation—The functional currency of all significant non-U.S. subsidiaries is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of these operations are translated at year-end exchange rates. Income statement accounts are translated using the average exchange rates for the reporting period. Translation adjustments for these companies are reported as a component of shareholders' equity and are not included in income. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in net income for the reporting period. Cash Equivalents—Cash equivalents include temporary deposits with financial institutions and highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less. Inventories—* Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Most U.S. inventories are valued on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost method. Other inventories are valued on the average cost method or at standard costs which approximate actual costs. *Property and Depreciation—Property is recorded at cost. Depreciation is computed using straight-line and accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally as follows: buildings 20 to 40 years and machinery and equipment 3 to 10 years. Expenditures for significant renewals and improvements are capitalized. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on property dispositions are included in income and the cost and related depreciation are removed from the accounts. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $27.1 million, $25.5 million and $25.0 million respectively. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets—Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to impairment write-down tests. We test the goodwill of each of our reporting units for impairment at least annually. The annual goodwill impairment tests are performed as of September 30 each year. For this purpose, we consider our operating segments to be our reporting units. Fair value is estimated using discounted cash flow methodologies. There has been no impairment of our goodwill as of December 31, 2011. Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. Revenue Recognition—Revenue from the sale of products is recognized when title, ownership and the risk of loss have transferred to the customer, which generally occurs either when product is shipped to the customer or, in the case of most U.S. distributor customers, when product is delivered to the customer's delivery site. We establish our shipping terms according to local practice and market characteristics. We do not ship product unless we have an order or other documentation authorizing shipment to our customers. We make appropriate provisions for uncollectible accounts receivable and product returns, both of which have historically been insignificant in relation to our net sales. Certain distributor customers receive price rebates based on their level of purchases and other performance criteria that are documented in established distributor programs. These rebates are accrued as a reduction of net sales as they are earned by the customer. Shipping and Handling—Shipping and handling expenses for products sold to customers are charged to cost of products sold as incurred. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling are included in net sales. Product Warranties—Estimated expenses related to product warranties and additional service actions are charged to cost of products sold in the period in which the related revenue is recognized or when significant product quality issues are identified. Research and Development—Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Income Taxes—Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between financial and tax reporting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. If it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recognized. We record tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return when such benefits meet a more likely than not threshold. We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in operating expenses. No provision is made for possible U.S. taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are considered to be reinvested indefinitely. Stock-Based Compensation—We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with the FASB guidance on share-based payment, which requires that we recognize compensation expense for employee and non-employee director stock-based compensation based on the grant date fair value. Except for retirement-eligible participants, for whom there is no requisite service period, this expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service periods following the date of grant. For retirement-eligible participants, this expense is recognized at the grant date. Derivative Instruments—*We may use derivative instruments to minimize the effects of changes in currency exchange rates and to achieve a targeted mix of fixed and floating interest rates on outstanding debt. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes and do not hold derivative instruments for trading purposes. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are recorded in the balance sheet as adjustments to the underlying hedged asset or liability. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are recognized in the income statement in the current period.

Restructuring And Other Charges	12 Months Ended
Restructuring And Other Charges	Dec. 31, 2011
Restructuring And Other Charges [Abstract]
Restructuring And Other Charges	Note 2—Restructuring and Other Charges During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, we recorded charges of $8.6 million, $14.1 million and $11.4 million, respectively. These charges were primarily related to reorganization activities. For the year ended December 31, 2011, European segment charges of $5.8 million related primarily to staff reductions in Germany, France and Spain and the transfer of certain production activities to China. North American segment charges for the year ended December 31, 2011 of $1.7 million included costs associated with the relocation of certain administrative and production activities. International segment charges for the year ended December 31, 2011 of $1.1 million were primarily related to severance costs associated with the relocation of our Wuxi, China operations to Suzhou, China. For the year ended December 31, 2010, European segment charges of $8.8 million related primarily to a focused voluntary retirement incentive program in Germany and severance costs associated with staff reductions. North American segment charges for the year ended December 31, 2010 of $3.8 million included stay bonuses and other costs associated with the transfer of certain production and administrative activities. International segment charges for the year ended December 31, 2010 of $1.5 million were primarily related to severance costs associated with staff reductions in South Africa and China. For the year ended December 31, 2009, North American segment charges of $9.6 million related primarily to a focused voluntary retirement incentive program and costs associated with the transfer certain production activities to lower cost factories. European and International segment charges for the year ended December 31, 2009 of $0.8 million and $1.0 million, respectively, were primarily for severance costs related to staff reductions in Germany, Brazil, Australia and South Africa.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for restructuring and related activities. Description of restructuring activities such as exit and disposal activities, include facts and circumstances leading to the plan, the expected plan completion date, the major types of costs associated with the plan activities, total expected costs, the accrual balance at the end of the period, and the periods over which the remaining accrual will be settled.

+ References + Details

Inventories

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Inventories [Abstract]

Inventories

Note 3—Inventories


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011		2010
Finished products	$	65,687	$	71,743
Work in process		17,000		16,494
Raw materials and supplies		58,788		62,344

Total inventories		141,475		150,581
Excess of FIFO costs over LIFO costs		47,368		45,820

Total FIFO inventories		188,843		196,401

Inventories stated on the LIFO basis represent 18% and 22% of total inventories at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Reductions in certain inventory quantities during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 resulted in liquidations of LIFO inventories carried at lower costs prevailing in prior years. The effect of LIFO liquidations during 2011 reduced cost of sales by $0.5 million and increased net income by $0.3 million. The effect of LIFO liquidations during 2010 was not significant.

Capital Stock

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Capital Stock [Abstract]

Capital Stock

Note 4—Capital Stock

•

Common stock, no par value—180,000,000 shares authorized.

•

Second cumulative preferred voting stock, $10 par value— 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued.

•

4¹/2% cumulative preferred nonvoting stock, $50 par value—100,000 shares authorized; 71,373 shares issued and 52,878 shares ($1.8 million) held in treasury. There were no treasury share purchases during the three years ended December 31, 2011.

Common stock activity is summarized as follows:


	Shares								Dollars
(Dollars in thousands)	Issued		Stock Compensation Trust			Treasury			Common Stock			Stock Compensation Trust			Treasury Cost
Balances January 1, 2009		62,081,391		(2,378,462	)		(23,916,639	)	$	69,607		$	(12,416	)	$	(256,077	)
Restricted stock awards		—		178,692			—			(934	)		934			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			3,128			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(8,369	)		(101	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		25,566			—			122			133			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,620			—			—
Stock option forfeitures		—		—			—			(155	)		—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			375			—			—
Performance stock forfeitures		—		—			—			(7	)		—			—
Tax provision related to stock plans		—		—			—			(386	)		—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(9,661	)		—			—			(206	)

Balances December 31, 2009		62,081,391		(2,174,204	)		(23,934,669	)		74,269			(11,349	)		(256,283	)
Restricted stock awards		—		162,925			—			(850	)		850			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			4,103			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(1,092	)		(40	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		650,565			—			4,413			3,396			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,748			—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			524			—			—
Tax benefit related to stock plans		—		—			—			3,462			—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(265,190	)		—			—			(7,572	)

Balances December 31, 2010		62,081,391		(1,360,714	)		(24,200,951	)		88,629			(7,103	)		(263,855	)
Restricted stock awards		—		103,815			—			(542	)		542			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			4,376			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(7,469	)		(6	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		94,115			—			825			491			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,343			—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			1,019			—			—
Tax benefit related to stock plans		—		—			—			632			—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(17,597	)		—			—			(624	)

Balances December 31, 2011		62,081,391		(1,162,784	)		(24,226,017	)		97,276			(6,070	)		264,479

The Mine Safety Appliances Company Stock Compensation Trust was established to provide shares for certain benefit plans, including the management and non-employee directors' equity incentive plans. Shares held by the Stock Compensation Trust, and the corresponding cost of those shares, are reported as a reduction of common shares issued. Differences between the cost of the shares held by the Stock Compensation Trust and the market value of shares released for stock-related benefits are reflected in common stock issued.

Segment Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Segment Information [Abstract]

Segment Information

Note 5—Segment Information

We are organized into five geographic operating segments based on management responsibilities. The operating segments have been aggregated (based on economic similarities, the nature of their products, end-user markets and methods of distribution) into three reportable segments: North America, Europe and International. Reportable segment information is presented in the following table:


(In thousands)	North America		Europe			International			Reconciling Items			Consolidated Totals
2011
Sales to external customers	$	561,140	$	286,753		$	325,334		$	—		$	1,173,227
Intercompany sales		100,094		116,471			18,305			(234,870	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		57,914		7,331			27,152			(22,545	)		69,852
Total assets		742,707		340,305			194,127			(162,087	)		1,115,052
Interest income		78		192			1,267			324			1,861
Interest expense		29		253			138			13,697			14,117
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		22,036		6,239			4,591			—			32,866
Pension income (expense)		10,800		(5,638	)		(195	)		—			4,967
Income tax provision		34,327		3,994			6,442			(9,990	)		34,773
Capital expenditures		20,035		4,384			5,971			—			30,390
Long-lived assets		127,361		29,981			35,540			—			192,882
2010
Sales to external customers		464,012		251,107			261,512			—			976,631
Intercompany sales		84,905		92,526			16,410			(193,841	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		44,560		(5,371	)		15,835			(16,920	)		38,104
Total assets		810,345		336,095			205,837			(155,089	)		1,197,188
Interest income		329		110			1,212			328			1,979
Interest expense		51		160			100			8,396			8,707
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		18,918		6,116			4,158			—			29,192
Pension income (expense)		13,451		(6,590	)		(470	)		—			6,391
Income tax provision		22,032		769			5,720			(10,231	)		18,290
Capital expenditures		16,806		4,667			3,551			—			25,024
Long-lived assets		142,241		33,199			35,229			—			210,669
2009
Sales to external customers		434,575		257,860			217,556			—			909,991
Intercompany sales		61,351		86,632			13,892			(161,875	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		43,780		4,483			6,717			(11,685	)		43,295
Total assets		523,708		284,429			183,742			(116,651	)		875,228
Interest income		123		239			759			368			1,489
Interest expense		37		167			143			6,733			7,080
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		17,369		6,178			3,815			—			27,362
Pension income (expense)		8,329		(5,508	)		(166	)		—			2,655
Income tax provision		24,314		2,714			2,070			(7,095	)		22,003
Capital expenditures		14,742		5,640			5,355			—			25,737
Long-lived assets		95,291		28,447			34,380			—			158,118

Reconciling items consist primarily of intercompany eliminations and items reported at the corporate level.

In 2011, we changed our segment reporting to include corporate overhead and interest expense in reconciling items. Previously, these expenses were reported in the North American, European and International segments. Comparative 2010 and 2009 amounts have been revised to conform with the current year presentation. The effect of the revisions for the year ended December 31, 2010 improved North American, European and International segment results by $10.0 million, $2.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively, and reduced the results reported in Reconciling Items by corresponding amounts. The effect of the revisions for the year ended December 31, 2009 improved North American, European and International segment results by $8.8 million, $2.1 million and $1.6 million, respectively, and reduced the results reported in Reconciling Items by corresponding amounts.

Geographic information on sales to external customers, based on country of origin:


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
United States	$	538,257	$	447,029	$	422,349
Germany		75,536		77,858		79,553
Other		559,434		451,744		408,089

Total		1,173,227		976,631		909,991

Geographic information on long-lived assets, based on country of origin:


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
United States	$	124,035	$	139,161	$	92,312
Germany		9,425		10,570		13,110
Other		59,422		60,938		52,696

Total		192,882		210,669		158,118

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 131
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 34
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8981-108599

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 35
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8984-108599

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 42
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e9054-108599

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 40
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e9031-108599

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8924-108599

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8538-108599

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 30
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e9038-108599

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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6534315&loc=d3e8933-108599

+ Details

Earnings Per Share

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

Note 6—Earnings per Share

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income, after the deduction of preferred stock dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share assumes the issuance of common stock for all potentially dilutive share equivalents outstanding not classified as participating securities. Participating securities are defined as unvested stock-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends.


(In thousands, except per share amounts)	2011			2010			2009
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$	69,852		$	38,104		$	43,295
Preferred stock dividends		(42	)		(42	)		(42	)

Income available to common equity		69,810			38,062			43,253
Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities		(755	)		(365	)		(327	)

Income available to common shareholders		69,055			37,697			42,926

Basic earnings per common share	$	1.91		$	1.06		$	1.21

Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.87		$	1.05		$	1.21

Basic shares outstanding		36,221			35,880			35,668
Stock options and other stock compensation		610			542			211

Diluted shares outstanding		36,831			36,422			35,879

Antidilutive stock options		894			760			749

Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Note 7—Income Taxes


(In thousands)	2011			2010		2009
Components of income before income taxes
U.S. income	$	58,817		$	38,398	$	33,393
Non-U.S. income		46,001			18,951		31,947

Income before income taxes		104,818			57,349		65,340

Provision for income taxes
Current
Federal	$	6,829		$	9,498	$	12,935
State		872			149		1,398
Non-U.S.		18,272			1,481		11,046

Total current provision		25,973			11,128		25,379

Deferred
Federal		10,853			3,862		313
State		772			194		(1,438	)
Non-U.S.		(2,825	)		3,106		(2,251	)

Total deferred provision (benefit).		8,800			7,162		(3,376	)

Provision for income taxes		34,773			18,290		22,003

Reconciliation of the U.S. federal income tax rates to our effective tax rate:


	2011			2010			2009
U.S. federal income tax rate		35.0	%		35.0	%		35.0	%
State income taxes—U.S.		1.0			0.4			1.4
Taxes on non-U.S. income		(2.1	)		(0.8	)		(0.4	)
Research and development credits		(1.3	)		(2.3	)		(1.2	)
Manufacturing deduction		(0.3	)		(1.9	)		(0.8	)
Valuation allowances		0.1			2.0			0.4
Statutory rate changes		—			—			(0.9	)
Other		0.8			(0.5	)		0.2

Effective income tax rate		33.2	%		31.9	%		33.7	%

Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities:


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011			2010
Deferred tax assets
Postretirement benefits	$	13,561		$	16,369
Inventory reserves		3,773			2,830
Vacation allowances		1,319			1,535
Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards		9,436			10,209
Post employment benefits		2,400			3,085
Foreign tax credit carryforwards (expiring between 2012 and 2020)		3,463			3,535
Stock options		7,815			6,446
Liability insurance		4,116			3,759
Basis of capital assets		1,102			1,970
Warranties		2,903			2,775
Reserve for doubtful accounts		1,581			2,226
Deferred revenue		217			1,240
Other		3,788			2,219

Total deferred tax assets		55,474			58,198
Valuation allowances		(2,777	)		(4,323	)

Net deferred tax assets		52,697			53,875

Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment		(13,565	)		(22,697	)
Pension		(18,609	)		(44,897	)
Intangibles		(16,209	)		(1,527	)
Other		(973	)		—

Total deferred tax liabilities		(49,356	)		(69,121	)

Net deferred taxes		3,341			(15,246	)

At December 31, 2011, we had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $31.0 million, the majority of which are in non-U.S. tax jurisdictions. Net operating loss carryforwards of $0.1 million will expire in 2013 and the remainder may be carried forward indefinitely.

No deferred U.S. income taxes have been provided on undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries, which amounted to $229.0 million as of December 31, 2011. These earnings are considered to be reinvested for an indefinite period of time. It is not practicable to determine the deferred tax liability on these undistributed earnings.

A reconciliation of the change in the tax liability for unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 is as follows:


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Beginning balance	$	11,827		$	9,126
Additions for tax positions related to the current year		1,268			3,183
Adjustments for tax positions related to prior years		(9	)		39
Statute expiration		(259	)		(247	)
Settlements		—			(274	)

Ending balance		12,827			11,827

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits, if recognized, would reduce our future effective tax rate. We have recognized tax benefits associated with these liabilities in the amount of $11.4 million and $10.5 million at December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.

We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in operating expenses. Our liability for accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions was $0.8 million at December 31, 2010. During 2011, we accrued additional interest related to uncertain tax positions of $0.1 million. Our liability for accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions was $0.9 million at December 31, 2011.

We file a U.S. federal income tax return along with various state and foreign income tax returns. Examinations of our federal returns have been completed through 2006, and the 2007 tax year was closed by statute. Various state and foreign income tax returns may be subject to tax audits after 2005.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 08
-Paragraph h
-Article 4

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 136, 172
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 109
-Paragraph 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32718-109319

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h))
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6881521&loc=d3e23780-122690

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32537-109319

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 740
-SubTopic 10
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-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32559-109319

+ Details

Stock Plans

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Stock Plans [Abstract]

Stock Plans

Note 8—Stock Plans

The 2008 Management Equity Incentive Plan provides for various forms of stock-based compensation for eligible key employees through May 2018. Management stock-based compensation includes stock options, restricted stock and performance stock units. The 2008 Non-Employee Directors' Equity Incentive Plan provides for grants of stock options and restricted stock to non-employee directors through May 2018. Stock options are granted at market value option prices and expire after ten years. Stock options are exercisable beginning three years after the grant date. Restricted stock is granted without payment to the company and generally vests three years after the grant date. Unvested stock options, restricted stock and performance stock units are forfeited if the grantee's employment with the company terminates for any reason other than retirement, death or disability. Certain restricted stock for management retention vests in three equal tranches four, five and six years after the grant date. Unvested restricted stock for management retention is forfeited if the grantee's employment with the company terminates for any reason other than death or disability. Restricted stock and performance stock units are valued at the market value of the stock on the grant date. The final number of shares to be issued for performance stock units may range from zero to 200% of the target award based on achieving targeted performance conditions over a three year performance period. We issue Stock Compensation Trust shares or new shares for stock option exercises and grants of restricted stock and performance stock. As of December 31, 2011, there were 355,002 and 236,489 shares, respectively, reserved for future grants under the management and non-employee directors' equity incentive plans.

Stock-based compensation expense was as follows:


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Restricted stock	$	4,370	$	4,063	$	3,027
Stock options		2,343		2,748		2,465
Performance stock		1,019		524		368

Total compensation expense before income taxes		7,732		7,335		5,860
Income tax benefit		2,825		2,653		2,084

Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit		4,907		4,682		3,776

We did not capitalize any stock-based compensation expense in 2011, 2010, or 2009.

Stock option expense is based on the fair value of stock option grants estimated on the grant dates using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions for options granted in 2011, 2010 and 2009.


	2011			2010			2009
Fair value per option	$	9.94		$	7.21		$	5.80
Risk-free interest rate		2.6	%		3.0	%		2.2	%
Expected dividend yield		3.6	%		3.9	%		3.0	%
Expected volatility		40	%		40	%		42	%
Expected life (years)		6.1			6.1			6.1

The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity rates as of the grant date converted into an implied spot rate yield curve. Expected dividend yield is based on the most recent annualized dividend divided by the one year average closing share price. Expected volatility is based on the ten year historical volatility using daily stock prices. Expected life is based on historical stock option exercise data.

A summary of option activity follows:


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price		Exercisable at Year-end
Outstanding January 1, 2009		1,706,439		$	26.65		1,229,907
Granted		438,110			18.17
Exercised		(25,566	)		10.00
Forfeited		(33,908	)		30.16

Outstanding December 31, 2009		2,085,075			25.01		1,323,549
Granted		323,978			25.06
Exercised		(650,565	)		12.00
Expired		(9,485	)		46.73

Outstanding December 31, 2010		1,749,003			29.74		791,759
Granted		166,247			34.09
Exercised		(94,115	)		13.99
Expired		(2,495	)		44.08

Outstanding December 31, 2011		1,818,640			30.94		907,598

For various exercise price ranges, characteristics of outstanding and exercisable stock options at December 31, 2011 were as follows:


	Stock Options Outstanding
	Shares		Weighted-Average
Range of Exercise Prices	Shares		Exercise Price		Remaining Life
$10.65 – $21.71		486,670	$	17.23	6.4 Years
$24.63 – $37.33		604,371		27.58	7.3
$40.08 – $50.25		727,599		42.89	4.2

$10.65 – $50.25		1,818,640		30.94	5.8


	Stock Options Exercisable
	Shares		Weighted-Average
Range of Exercise Prices	Shares		Exercise Price		Remaining Life
$10.65 – $13.57		65,853	$	11.11		1.1 Years
$25.07 – $28.06		114,146		25.27		2.2
$40.08 – $50.25		727,599		42.89		4.2

$10.65 – $50.25		907,598		38.37		3.7

Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $1.3 million, $7.8 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The tax benefit we realized from these exercises was $0.7 million, $4.3 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable at December 31, 2011 was zero because a significant number of the options were out-of-the money. The aggregate intrinsic value of all stock options outstanding at December 31, 2011 was $4.0 million.

A summary of restricted stock activity follows:


	Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2009		189,062		$	42.56
Granted		197,464			18.25
Vested		(39,319	)		40.57
Forfeited		(9,001	)		27.64

Unvested at December 31, 2009		338,206			28.99
Granted		185,216			25.38
Vested		(46,125	)		39.88
Forfeited		(3,660	)		23.93

Unvested at December 31, 2010		473,637			26.56
Granted		125,603			33.61
Vested		(76,505	)		44.39
Forfeited		(10,481	)		24.87

Unvested at December 31, 2011		512,254			25.66

A summary of performance stock unit activity follows:


	Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted		64,780		$	17.83
Forfeited		(2,806	)		17.83

Unvested at December 31, 2009		61,974			17.83
Granted		41,984			24.63
Performance adjustments		(18,329	)		20.75

Unvested at December 31, 2010		85,629			20.53
Granted		48,820			33.09
Performance adjustments		(7,506	)		21.14
Forfeited		(1,500	)		30.53

Unvested at December 31, 2011		125,443			25.27

During the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (the difference between the market price on the date of exercise and the option price paid to exercise the option) was $1.8 million, $10.9 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The fair values of restricted stock vested during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009 were $3.4 million, $1.2 million and $0.7 million, respectively.

On December 31, 2011, there was $6.3 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense. The weighted average period over which this expense is expected to be recognized was approximately one year.

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of components of a stock option or other award plan under which equity-based compensation is awarded to employees, typically comprised of the amount of unearned compensation (deferred compensation cost), compensation expense, and changes in the quantity and fair value of the shares (or other type of equity) granted, exercised, forfeited, and issued and outstanding pertaining to that plan. Disclosure may also include nature and general terms of such arrangements that existed during the period and potential effects of those arrangements on shareholders, effect of compensation cost arising from equity-based payment arrangements on the income statement, method of estimating the fair value of the goods or services received, or the fair value of the equity instruments granted, during the period, cash flow effects resulting from equity-based payment arrangements and, for registrants that accelerate vesting of out of the money share options, reasons for the decision to accelerate.

+ References + Details

Long-Term Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Long-Term Debt [Abstract]

Long-Term Debt

Note 9—Long-Term Debt


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011		2010
Industrial development debt issues payable through 2022, 0.30%	$	4,000	$	4,000
Senior Notes payable through 2012, 8.39%		8,046		16,160
Senior Notes payable through 2021, 5.41%		60,000		60,000
Senior Notes payable through 2021, 4.00%		100,000		100,000
Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2016		170,000		195,000
Note payable through 2011, net of unamortized discount of $66		—		1,934

Total		342,046		377,094
Amounts due within one year		8,000		10,000

Long-term debt		334,046		367,094

In November 2011, we amended our unsecured senior revolving credit facility to increase the facility from $250.0 million to $300.0 million and extend the term of the facility until November 2016. The senior revolving credit facility provides for borrowings up to $300.0 million and is subject to certain commitment fees. Loans made under the senior revolving credit facility bear interest at a variable rate. Loan proceeds may be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital, permitted acquisitions, capital expenditures and repayment of existing indebtedness. The credit agreement also provides for an uncommitted incremental facility that permits us, subject to certain conditions, to request an increase in the senior credit facility of up to $50.0 million. At December 31, 2011, $130.0 million of the $300.0 million senior revolving credit facility was unused.

In October 2010, we issued $100.0 million in 4.00% Series A Senior Notes. The Series A Senior Notes will mature on October 13, 2021 and are payable in five annual installments of $20.0 million, commencing October 13, 2017. Interest is payable quarterly. The Series A Senior Notes are unsecured.

Approximate maturities of these obligations over the next five years are $8.0 million in 2012, $6.7 million in 2013, $6.7 million in 2014, $6.7 million in 2015, $176.7 million in 2016, and $137.2 million thereafter. Some debt agreements require us to maintain certain financial ratios and minimum net worth and contain restrictions on the total amount of debt. We were in compliance with our debt covenants at December 31, 2011.

Goodwill And Intangible Assets

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Goodwill And Intangible Assets

Note 10—Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Changes in goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were as follows:


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Net balance at January 1	$	263,089		$	84,727
Acquisitions		—			179,900
Disposals		(1,800	)		—
Currency translation		(2,205	)		(1,538	)

Net balance at December 31		259,084			263,089

At December 31, 2011, goodwill of $198.3 million, $57.3 million and $3.5 million related to the North American, European and International reporting units, respectively.

Changes in intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 were as follows:


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Net balance at January 1	$	53,880		$	13,543
Amortization expense		(5,728	)		(3,698	)
Acquisitions		—			43,956
Disposals		(518	)		—
Currency translation		(515	)		79

Net balance at December 31		47,119			53,880

Intangible assets include patents and technology, license agreements, copyrights, trade names and distribution agreements. These items are reported in other noncurrent assets. At December 31, 2011, intangible assets totaled $47.1 million, net of accumulated amortization of $19.8 million. Intangible asset amortization expense over the next five years is expected to be approximately $4.3 million in 2012, $4.2 million in 2013, $4.2 million in 2014, $4.2 million in 2015 and $4.0 million in 2016.

During 2011, we sold certain assets related to our ballistic vest business. This transaction resulted in disposals of goodwill and intangible assets of $1.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively. The impact of this transaction and the operating results of the ballistic vest business were not material to net income or earnings per share for all periods presented and are not expected to be significant to future results.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss.

+ References + Details

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits

Note 11—Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits

We maintain various defined benefit and defined contribution plans covering the majority of our employees. Our principal U.S. plan is funded in compliance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). It is our general policy to fund current costs for the international plans, except in Germany and Mexico, where it is common practice and permissible under tax laws to accrue book reserves.

We provide health care benefits and limited life insurance for certain retired employees who are covered by our principal U.S. defined benefit pension plan until they become Medicare-eligible.

Information pertaining to defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefits plans is provided in the following table:


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
(In thousands)	2011			2010			2011			2010
Change in Benefit Obligations
Benefit obligations at January 1	$	349,755		$	330,757		$	32,734		$	30,014
Service cost		8,674			7,702			785			763
Interest cost		19,531			18,615			1,501			1,729
Participant contributions		153			137			—			—
Actuarial losses (gains)		37,973			14,441			(2,281	)		2,011
Benefits paid		(18,931	)		(17,249	)		(2,314	)		(1,783	)
Curtailments		(54	)		(1,057	)		—			—
Termination benefits		—			926			—			—
Currency translation		(2,832	)		(4,517	)		—			—

Benefit obligations at December 31		394,269			349,755			30,425			32,734

Change in Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at January 1		377,607			342,874			—			—
Actual return on plan assets		(4,428	)		48,001			—			—
Employer contributions		4,259			3,501			2,314			1,783
Participant contributions		153			137			245			234
Transfers		—			—			—			—
Benefits paid		(16,308	)		(14,659	)		(2,559	)		(2,017	)
Reimbursement of German benefits		(2,622	)		(2,589	)		—			—
Currency translation		(694	)		342			—			—

Fair value of plan assets at December 31		357,967			377,607			—			—

Funded Status
Funded status at December 31		(36,302	)		27,851			(30,425	)		(32,734	)
Unrecognized transition losses		24			42			—			—
Unrecognized prior service cost		808			923			(3,072	)		(3,527	)
Unrecognized net actuarial losses		158,425			82,903			12,212			15,202

Net amount recognized		122,955			111,719			(21,285	)		(21,059	)

Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet
Noncurrent assets		58,075			121,631			—			—
Current liabilities		(4,722	)		(4,779	)		(2,096	)		(2,538	)
Noncurrent liabilities		(89,655	)		(89,001	)		(28,329	)		(30,196	)

Net amount recognized		(36,302	)		27,851			(30,425	)		(32,734	)

Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Net actuarial losses		158,425			82,903			12,212			15,202
Prior service cost (credit)		808			923			(3,072	)		(3,527	)
Unrecognized net initial obligation		24			42			—			—

Total (before tax effects)		159,257			83,868			9,140			11,675

Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans		347,636			332,544			—			—


	Pension Benefits									Other Benefits
(In thousands)	2011			2010			2009			2011			2010			2009
Components of Net Periodic Benefit (Credit) Cost
Service cost	$	8,674		$	7,702		$	7,229		$	785		$	763		$	719
Interest cost		19,531			18,615			18,477			1,501			1,730			1,836
Expected return on plan assets		(34,125	)		(34,565	)		(35,273	)		—			—			—
Amortization of transition amounts		4			4			6			—			—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		104			103			153			710			840			1,001
Recognized net actuarial losses (gains)		793			537			245			(455	)		(555	)		(401	)
Curtailment loss		52			287			97			—			—			—
Termination benefits		—			926			6,411			—			—			250

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost		(4,967	)		(6,391	)		(2,655	)		2,541			2,778			3,405

Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized in 2012 net periodic benefit costs.


(In thousands)	Pension Benefits		Other Benefits
Loss recognition	$	7,020	$	720
Prior service cost (credit) recognition		102		(455	)
Transition obligation recognition		2		—


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
	2011			2010			2011			2010
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate		5.0	%		5.6	%		4.8	%		5.3	%
Rate of compensation increase		3.9	%		3.7	%		—			—
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate		5.6	%		5.8	%		5.3	%		6.0	%
Expected return on plan assets		8.3	%		8.3	%		—			—
Rate of compensation increases		3.7	%		3.8	%		—			—

Discount rates were determined using various corporate bond indexes as indicators of interest rate levels and movements and by matching our projected benefit obligation payment stream to current yields on high quality bonds.

The expected return on assets for the 2011 net periodic pension cost was determined by multiplying the expected returns of each asset class (based on historical returns) by the expected percentage of the total portfolio invested in that asset class. A total return was determined by summing the expected returns over all asset classes.


	Pension Plan Assets at December 31
	2011			2010
Equity securities		60	%		73	%
Fixed income securities		29			15
Pooled investment funds		6			5
Insurance contracts		3			3
Cash and cash equivalents		2			4

Total		100	%		100	%

The overall objective of our pension investment strategy is to earn a rate of return over time to satisfy the benefit obligations of the pension plans and to maintain sufficient liquidity to pay benefits and meet other cash requirements of our pension funds. Investment policies for our primary U.S. pension plan are determined by the plan's Investment Committee and set forth in the plan's investment policy. Asset managers are granted discretion for determining sector mix, selecting securities and timing transactions, subject to the guidelines of the investment policy. An aggressive, flexible management of the portfolio is permitted and encouraged, with shifts of emphasis among equities, fixed income securities and cash equivalents at the discretion of each manager. No target asset allocations are set forth in the investment policy. For our non-U.S. pension plans, our investment objective is generally met through the use of pooled investment funds and insurance contracts.

The following table summarizes our pension plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis by fair value hierarchy level:


	December 31, 2011
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Total Fair Value
Equity securities	$	216,198	$	—	$	—	$	216,198
Fixed income securities		34,636		68,087		—		102,723
Pooled investment funds		—		19,765		—		19,765
Insurance contracts ents		—		—		11,562		11,562
Cash and cash equivalents		7,719		—		—		7,719

Total		258,553		87,852		11,562		357,967


	December 31, 2010
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Total Fair Value
Equity securities	$	274,918	$	—	$	—	$	274,918
Fixed income securities		9,218		49,401		—		58,619
Pooled investment funds		—		19,338		—		19,338
Cash and cash equivalents		14,007		—		—		14,007
Insurance contracts		—		—		10,725		10,725

Total		298,143		68,739		10,725		377,607

Equity securities consist primarily of publicly traded U.S. and non-U.S. common stocks. Equities are valued at closing prices reported on the listing stock exchange.

Fixed income consists primarily of U.S. government and agency bonds and U.S. corporate bonds. Fixed income securities are valued at closing prices reported in active markets or based on yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings. When quoted prices are not available for identical or similar bonds, the bond is valued under a discounted cash flow approach that maximizes observable inputs, such as current yields of similar instruments, and may include adjustments, for certain risks that may not be observable, such as credit and liquidity risks.

Pooled investment funds consist of mutual and collective investment funds that invest primarily in publicly traded non-U.S. equity and fixed income securities. Pooled investment funds are valued at net asset values calculated by the fund manager based on fair value of the underlying securities. The underlying securities are generally valued at closing prices reported in active markets, quoted prices of similar securities, or discounted cash flows approach that maximizes observable inputs such as current value measurement at the reporting date.

Insurance contracts are valued in accordance with the terms of the applicable collective pension contract.

Cash equivalents consist primarily of money market and similar temporary investment funds. Cash equivalents are valued at closing prices reported in active markets.

The preceding methods may produce fair value measurements that are not indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Although we believe the valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.

The following table presents a reconciliation of Level 3 assets:


(In thousands)	Insurance Contracts
Balance January 1, 2010	$	9,878
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings		(406	)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements		1,253

Balance December 31, 2010		10,725
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings		(325	)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements		1,162

Balance December 31, 2011		11,562

We expect to make net contributions of $4.1 million to our pension plans in 2012.

For measurement purposes, a 9.0% increase in the costs of covered health care benefits was assumed for the year 2011, decreasing by 0.5% for each successive year to 4.5% in 2018 and thereafter. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have increased or decreased the other postretirement benefit obligations and current year plan expense by approximately $1.8 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

Expense for defined contribution pension plans was $5.7 million in 2011, $5.2 million in 2010 and $3.1 million in 2009.

Estimated pension benefits to be paid under our defined benefit pension plans during the next five years are $18.9 million in 2012, $19.5 million in 2013, $19.3 million in 2014, $20.1 million in 2015, $22.4 million in 2016, and are expected to aggregate $117.4 million for the five years thereafter. Estimated other postretirement benefits to be paid during the next five years are $2.1 million in 2012, $2.2 million in 2013, $2.1 million in 2014, $2.2 million in 2015, $2.3 million in 2016 and are expected to aggregate $12.6 million for the five years thereafter.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for pension and other postretirement benefits.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph a
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-Number 132R
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-Number 132R
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-Number 106
-Paragraph 518
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-Number 30
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-Name Implementation Guide (Q and A)
-Number FAS88
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+ Details

Other Income

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Other Income [Abstract]

Other Income

Note 12—Other Income


(In thousands)	2011		2010			2009
Interest income	$	1,861	$	1,979		$	1,489
Gain on asset dispositions, net		3,328		5,135			4,919
Other, net		192		(1,077	)		(548	)

Total		5,381		6,037			5,860

Leases	12 Months Ended
Leases	Dec. 31, 2011
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Note 13—Leases We lease office space, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, automobiles and other equipment under operating lease arrangements. Rent expense was $12.2 million in 2011, $12.8 million in 2010 and $12.6 million in 2009. Minimum rent commitments under noncancelable leases are $9.6 million in 2012, $7.9 million in 2013, $5.6 million in 2014, $2.8 million in 2015, $2.0 million in 2016 and $1.1 million thereafter.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for lessee entity's leasing arrangements including, but not limited to, all of the following: (a.) The basis on which contingent rental payments are determined, (b.) The existence and terms of renewal or purchase options and escalation clauses, (c.) Restrictions imposed by lease agreements, such as those concerning dividends, additional debt, and further leasing.

+ References + Details

Short-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
Short-Term Debt	Dec. 31, 2011
Short-Term Debt [Abstract]
Short-Term Debt	Note 14—Short-Term Debt Short-term borrowings with banks, which excludes the current portion of long-term debt, was $0.2 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010. The average month-end balance of total short-term borrowings during 2011 was $0.3 million. The maximum month-end balance of $0.6 million occurred at August 31, 2011. The weighted average interest rates on short-term borrowings at December 31, 2011 and 2010 were 12% and 7%, respectively.

Derivative Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Derivative Financial Instruments

Note 15—Derivative Financial Instruments

As part of our currency exchange rate risk management strategy, we enter into certain derivative foreign currency forward contracts that do not meet the GAAP criteria for hedge accounting, but which have the impact of partially offsetting certain foreign currency exposures. We account for these forward contracts on a full mark-to-market basis and report the related gains or losses in currency exchange losses (gains) in the consolidated statement of income. At December 31, 2011, the notional amount of open forward contracts was $0.7 million and the unrealized loss on these contracts was immaterial. All open forward contracts will mature during the first quarter of 2012.

The following table presents the balance sheet location and fair value of assets and liabilities associated with derivative financial instruments.


(In thousands)	December 31 2011		December 31 2010
Derivaties not designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts:
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	—	$	4
Other current liabilities		50		—

The following table presents the income statement location and impact of derivative financial instruments:

(In thousands)

Income Statement
Location

Loss
Recognized in Income

Year ended
December 31

2011

2010

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Foreign exchange contracts

Currency exchange

losses (gains)

1,282

274

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the entity's entire derivative instruments and hedging activities. Describes an entity's risk management strategies, derivatives in hedging activities and non-hedging derivative instruments, the assets, obligations, liabilities, revenues and expenses arising therefrom, and the amounts of and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts of such items.

+ References

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 133
-Paragraph 45
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+ Details

Acquisitions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Acquisitions

Note 16—Acquisitions

On October 13, 2010, we acquired General Monitors, Inc. (GMI) and its affiliated companies, General Monitors Ireland Limited (GMIL) and General Monitors Transnational, LLC (GMT), collectively referred to as General Monitors, for $278.2 million. There is no contingent consideration. At the same time, we entered into an escrow agreement with the sellers, pursuant to which approximately $38.0 million of the purchase price was placed into escrow. The escrow agreement expires two years after the closing date. GMI, GMIL and GMT are our wholly-owned subsidiaries as of the acquisition date.

Approximately $264.0 million of the acquisition price was funded through the issuance of $100.0 million in 4.00% Series A Senior Notes and borrowings on our unsecured senior revolving credit facility. Borrowings made under the unsecured senior revolving credit facility bear interest at a variable annual rate. The Senior notes, which are unsecured, will mature on October 13, 2021 and are payable in five annual installments of $20.0 million, commencing on October 13, 2017. Interest is payable quarterly.

General Monitors is a leading innovator and developer of advanced flame and gas detection systems that are used in a broad range of oil and gas exploration and refining applications and in diverse industrial plant settings. In addition to providing us with greater access to the global oil and gas market, we believe that the acquisition significantly enhances our long-term corporate strategy in fixed gas detection by providing us with world-class research and development talent and an industry-leading product line.

The following table summarizes the fair values of the General Monitors assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition:


(In millions)	October 13, 2010
Current assets (including cash of $18.6 million)	$	46.8
Property		14.0
Trade name		6.0
Acquired technology		11.0
Customer-related intangibles		27.0
Goodwill		179.9
Other noncurrent assets		3.5

Total assets acquired		288.2
Total liabilities assumed		10.0

Net assets acquired		278.2

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with the acquisition have been recorded at their fair values. Fair values were determined by management based, in part, on an independent valuation performed by a third party valuation specialist. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are subject to amortization over their estimated useful lives. The identifiable intangible assets acquired in the General Monitors transaction are being amortized over an estimated weighted-average amortization period of 16 years. Estimated future amortization expense related to these identifiable intangible assets is approximately $3.3 million in each of the next five years.

Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired and represents the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. Among the factors that contributed to a purchase price in excess of the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired were the acquisition of an assembled workforce, the expected synergies and other benefits that we believe will result from combining the operations of General Monitors with our operations and the going concern element of General Monitors existing business. Goodwill related to the General Monitors acquisition has been recorded in our reportable segments as follows: $136.7 million in North American segment and $43.2 million in the European segment. North American segment goodwill is tax deductible. The step up to fair value of acquired inventory as part of the purchase price allocation totaled $4.8 million.

Our results for the year ended December 31, 2010 included transaction and integration costs of $6.5 million ($4.0 million after tax). These costs are reported in selling, general and administrative expenses.

The operating results of General Monitors have been included in our consolidated financial statements since the acquisition date. Our results for the year ended December 31, 2011 include General Monitors sales and net income of $86.2 million and $16.1 million, respectively. General Monitors net income for the year ended December 31, 2011 includes a one-time increase in cost of sales of $2.3 million ($1.5 million after tax) related to the fair value step-up of inventories acquired from General Monitors and sold during 2011. Our results for the year ended December 31, 2010 include General Monitors sales and net income of $16.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively. General Monitors net income for the year ended December 31, 2010 includes a one-time increase in cost of sales of $2.5 million ($1.5 million after tax) related to the fair value step-up of inventories acquired from General Monitors and sold during 2010.

The following unaudited pro forma information presents our combined results as if the acquisition had occurred at the beginning of 2009. The unaudited pro forma financial information was prepared to give effect to events that are directly attributable to the acquisition, factually supportable and expected to have a continuing impact on the combined company's results. There were no transactions between us and GMI, GMIL or GMT prior to the acquisition that were required to be eliminated. Transactions between GMI, GMIL and GMT during the periods presented have been eliminated in the unaudited pro forma financial information. Pro forma adjustments have been made to reflect the incremental impact on earnings of interest costs on the borrowings that we made to acquire the General Monitors companies, amortization expense related to acquired intangible assets and income tax expense, net of benefits associated with the previously-discussed adjustments. Pro forma adjustments were also made to the 2010 information to remove the effects of one-time transaction and integration costs. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect any cost savings, operating synergies or revenue enhancements that the combined company may achieve as a result of the acquisitions or the costs to integrate the operations or the costs necessary to achieve cost savings, operating synergies or revenue enhancements.

Pro forma financial information (Unaudited)


	Year ended December 31
(In millions, except per share amounts)	2011		2010		2009
Net sales	$	1,173	$	1,032	$	989
Net income		71		50		51
Basic earnings per share		1.95		1.39		1.44
Diluted earnings per share		1.92		1.37		1.43

The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for information purposes only and is not intended to represent or be indicative of the combined results of operations or financial position that we would have reported had the acquisitions been completed as of the date and for the periods presented, and should not be taken as representative of our consolidated results of operations or financial condition following the acquisitions. In addition, the unaudited pro forma financial information is not intended to project the future financial position or results of operations of the combined company.

The unaudited proforma financial information was prepared using the acquisition method of accounting under existing GAAP.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable).

+ References

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 88-16
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-Paragraph F4
-Subparagraph e

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+ Details

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
Fair Value Measurements	Dec. 31, 2011
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Note 17—Fair Value Measurements Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are: Level 1—Observable inputs that reflect unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets. Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. Level 3—Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. The valuation methodologies we used to measure financial assets and liabilities were limited to the pension plan assets described in Note 11 and the derivative financial instruments described in Note 15. See Note 11 for the fair value hierarchy classification of pension plan assets. We estimate the fair value of the derivative financial instruments, consisting of foreign currency forward contracts, based upon valuation models with inputs that generally can be verified by observable market conditions and do not involve significant management judgment. Accordingly, the fair values of the derivative financial instruments are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities which includes [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity. Such assets and liabilities may be measured on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. The disclosures which may be required or desired include: (1) for assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis, disclosure may include: (a) the fair value measurements at the reporting date; (b) the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3); (c) for fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (i) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (ii) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net); (iii) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs); (d) the amount of the total gains or losses for the period in subparagraph (c) (i) above included in earnings (or changes in net assets) that are attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to those assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date and a description of where those unrealized gains or losses are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (e) the valuation technique(s) used to measure fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques, if any, during the period and (2) for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis (for example, impaired assets) disclosure may include, in addition to (a) above: (a) the reasons for the fair value measurements recorded; (b) the same as (b) above; (c) for fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a description of the inputs and the information used to develop the inputs; and (d) the valuation technique(s) used to measure fair value and a discussion of changes, if any, in the valuation technique(s) used to measure similar assets and/or liabilities in prior periods. Where the quoted price in an active market for the identical liability is not available, the Level 1 input is the quoted price of an identical liability when traded as an asset.

+ References

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-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
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+ Details

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	Dec. 31, 2011
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments	Note 18—Fair Value of Financial Instruments With the exception of fixed rate long-term debt, we believe that the reported carrying amounts of our financial assets and liabilities approximate their fair values. At December 31, 2011, the reported carrying amount of our fixed rate long-term debt (including the current portion) was $168.0 million and the fair value was $177.2 million. The fair value of our long-term debt was determined using cash flow valuation models to estimate the market value of similar transactions as of December 31, 2011.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

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+ Details

Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Contingencies [Abstract]

Contingencies

Note 19—Contingencies

We categorize the product liability losses that we experience into two main categories, single incident and cumulative trauma. Single incident product liability claims are discrete incidents that are typically known to us when they occur and involve observable injuries and, therefore, more quantifiable damages. Therefore, we maintain a reserve for single incident product liability claims based on expected settlement costs for pending claims and an estimate of costs for unreported claims derived from experience, sales volumes and other relevant information. Our reserve for single incident product liability claims was $4.7 million and $5.2 million at December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Single incident product liability expense during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $1.5 million, $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively. We evaluate our single incident product liability exposures on an ongoing basis and make adjustments to the reserve as new information becomes available.

Cumulative trauma product liability claims involve exposures to harmful substances (e.g., silica, asbestos and coal dust) that occurred many years ago and may have developed over long periods of time into diseases such as silicosis, asbestosis or coal worker's pneumoconiosis. We are presently named as a defendant in 2,321 lawsuits in which plaintiffs allege to have contracted certain cumulative trauma diseases related to exposure to silica, asbestos, and/or coal dust. These lawsuits mainly involve respiratory protection products allegedly manufactured and sold by us. We are unable to estimate total damages sought in these lawsuits as they generally do not specify the injuries alleged or the amount of damages sought, and potentially involve multiple defendants.

Cumulative trauma product liability litigation is difficult to predict. In our experience, until late in a lawsuit, we cannot reasonably determine whether it is probable that any given cumulative trauma lawsuit will ultimately result in a liability. This uncertainty is caused by many factors, including the following: cumulative trauma complaints generally do not provide information sufficient to determine if a loss is probable; cumulative trauma litigation is inherently unpredictable and information is often insufficient to determine if a lawsuit will develop into an actively litigated case; and even when a case is actively litigated, it is often difficult to determine if the lawsuit will be dismissed or otherwise resolved until late in the lawsuit. Moreover, even once it is probable that such a lawsuit will result in a loss, it is difficult to reasonably estimate the amount of actual loss that will be incurred. These amounts are highly variable and turn on a case-by-case analysis of the relevant facts, which are often not learned until late in the lawsuit.

Because of these factors, we cannot reliably determine our potential liability for such claims until late in the lawsuit. We, therefore, do not record cumulative trauma product liability losses when a lawsuit is filed, but rather, when we learn sufficient information to determine that it is probable that we will incur a loss and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. We record expenses for defense costs associated with open cumulative trauma product liability lawsuits as incurred.

We cannot estimate any amount or range of possible losses related to resolving pending and future cumulative trauma product liability claims that we may face because of the factors described above. As new information about cumulative trauma product liability cases and future developments becomes available, we reassess our potential exposures.

A summary of cumulative trauma product liability claims activity follows:


	2011			2010			2009
Open claims, January 1		1,900			2,480			2,550
New claims		479			260			220
Settled and dismissed claims		(58	)		(840	)		(290	)

Open claims, December 31		2,321			1,900			2,480

With some common contract exclusions, we maintain insurance for cumulative trauma product liability claims. We have purchased insurance policies from over 20 different insurance carriers that provide coverage for cumulative trauma product liability losses and related defense costs. In the normal course of business, we make payments to settle product liability claims and for related defense costs. We record receivables for the amounts that are covered by insurance. The available limits of these policies are many times our recorded insurance receivable balance.

Various factors could affect the timing and amount of recovery of our insurance receivables, including the outcome of negotiations with insurers, legal proceedings with respect to product liability insurance coverage and the extent to which insurers may become insolvent in the future.

Our insurance receivables at December 31, 2011 and 2010 totaled $112.1 million and $89.0 million, respectively, all of which is reported in other non-current assets.

A summary of insurance receivable balances and activity related to cumulative trauma product liability losses follows:


(In millions)	2011			2010			2009
Balance January 1	$	89.0		$	91.7		$	60.6
Additions		35.6			30.9			33.1
Collections and settlements		(12.5	)		(33.6	)		(2.0	)

Balance December 31		112.1			89.0			91.7

Additions to insurance receivables in the above table represent insured cumulative trauma product liability losses and related defense costs. Uninsured cumulative trauma product liability losses during the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 were $1.1 million, $0.2 million and $1.7 million, respectively.

Our aggregate cumulative trauma product liability losses and administrative and defense costs for the three years ended December 31, 2011, totaled approximately $102.7 million, substantially all of which was insured.

We believe that the increase in the insurance receivable balance that we have experienced since 2005 is primarily due to disagreements among our insurance carriers, and consequently with us, as to when their individual obligations to pay us are triggered and the amount of each insurer's obligation, as compared to other insurers. We believe that our insurers do not contest that they have issued policies to us or that these policies cover cumulative trauma product liability claims. We believe that our ability to successfully resolve our insurance litigation with various insurance carriers during 2011 and 2010 demonstrates that we had strong legal positions concerning our rights to coverage.

We regularly evaluate the collectability of the insurance receivables and record the amounts that we conclude are probable of collection. Our conclusions are based on our analysis of the terms of the underlying insurance policies, our experience in successfully recovering cumulative trauma product liability claims from our insurers under other policies, the financial ability of our insurance carriers to pay the claims, our understanding and interpretation of the relevant facts and applicable law and the advice of legal counsel, who believe that our insurers are required to provide coverage based on the terms of the policies.

Although the outcome of cumulative trauma product liability matters cannot be predicted with certainty and unfavorable resolutions could materially affect our results of operations on a quarter-to-quarter basis, based on information currently available and the amounts of insurance coverage available to us, we believe that the disposition of cumulative trauma product liability lawsuits that are pending against us will not have a materially adverse effect on our future results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.

We are currently involved in coverage litigation with The North River Insurance Company (North River). We have sued North River in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleging that North River breached one insurance policy by failing to pay amounts owed to us and that its refusal to pay constitutes bad faith. The case was assigned to the Court's mandatory Alternative Dispute Resolution program, in an attempt to resolve the dispute. The mediation was unsuccessful and the case will proceed to trial. We believe that North River's refusal to indemnify us under the policy for product liability losses and legal fees paid by us is wholly contrary to Pennsylvania law and we are vigorously pursuing the legal actions necessary to collect all amounts.

In April 2010, North River filed a complaint against us and two excess insurance carriers in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania seeking a declaratory judgment concerning their responsibilities under three additional policies shared with Northbrook Insurance Company. We filed a motion to dismiss the declaratory judgment claim and a counter claim for breach of contract against North River and the two excess carriers. The court stayed the declaratory judgment claim and the breach of contract claim is now in discovery. We believe that Pennsylvania law supports our position that North River has insurance responsibilities to indemnify us against various product liability losses to the full limits of these policies.

In May 2010, we resolved coverage litigation with Century Indemnity Company through a negotiated settlement. As part of this settlement, both parties dismissed all claims against one another under the previously-filed coverage litigation. The settlement did not have an impact on our operating results.

In July 2010, we resolved coverage litigation with Columbia Casualty Company on some of their policies through a negotiated settlement. As part of this settlement, both parties dismissed all claims against one another under the previously-filed coverage litigation. The settlement did not have an impact on our operating results.

In July 2010, we filed a complaint in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware seeking declaratory and other relief from the majority of our excess insurance carriers concerning the future rights and obligations of MSA and our excess insurance carriers under various insurance policies. The reason for this insurance coverage action is to secure a comprehensive resolution of our rights under the insurance policies issued by our insurers.

In December 2010, North River filed a motion to dismiss or stay the Delaware action asserting that the previously-discussed cases in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania were capable of resolving the claims presented in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware action. In January 2011, the Superior Court of the State of Delaware granted North River's motion to stay the Delaware insurance coverage action, pending resolution of the ongoing actions in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the Court of Common Please of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. We appealed the trial court's decision to stay this case and our appeal was denied. We continue to seek removal of the stay.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name FASB Interpretation (FIN)
-Number 14
-Paragraph 3
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 5
-Paragraph 9, 10, 11, 12
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 210
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.25)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 450
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6952336&loc=d3e14435-108349

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 460
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 8
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6398077&loc=d3e12565-110249

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 440
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6394976&loc=d3e25287-109308

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 825
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6449706&loc=d3e16207-108621

+ Details

Recently Adopted And Recently Issued Accounting Standards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011
Recently Adopted And Recently Issued Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Recently Adopted And Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Note 20—Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-14, Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements. This ASU changed the accounting model for revenue arrangements that include both tangible products and software elements that are "essential to the functionality." The new guidance includes factors to help companies determine what software elements are considered "essential to the functionality." The amendments will subject software-enabled products to other revenue guidance and disclosure requirements, such as guidance surrounding revenue arrangements with multiple-deliverables. The adoption of this ASU on January 1, 2011 did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-17, Revenue Recognition—Milestone Method. This ASU allows entities to make a policy election to use the milestone method of revenue recognition and provides guidance on defining a milestone and the criteria that should be met for applying the milestone method. The scope of this ASU is limited to the transactions involving milestones relating to research and development deliverables. The guidance includes enhanced disclosure requirements about each arrangement, individual milestones and related contingent consideration, substantive milestones and factors considered in that determination. The adoption of this ASU on January 1, 2011 did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In May 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-04, Fair Value Measurement—Amendments to Achieve Common Fair Value Measurement and Disclosure Requirements in U.S. GAAP and IFRS. This ASU updated measurement guidance to improve the comparability of fair value measurements between U.S.GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards and enhanced disclosure requirements. The most significant change in disclosures is an expansion of information related to fair value measurements categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The ASU will be effective beginning in 2012. The adoption of this ASU will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In June 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-05, Comprehensive Income—Presentation of Comprehensive Income. This ASU requires net income and comprehensive income to be presented in either a single continuous statement or in two separate, but consecutive, statements. The ASU eliminates the option of presenting other comprehensive income in the statement of shareholders' equity. The ASU will be effective beginning in 2012. The adoption of this ASU will not have a material effect on our results of operations or financial position, but will change the format of the presentation of comprehensive income. In September 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-08, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Testing Goodwill for Impairment. This ASU reduces the complexity of performing an annual goodwill impairment test by permitting companies to perform an assessment of qualitative factors to determine whether additional goodwill impairment testing is necessary. The ASU will be effective beginning in 2012. The adoption of this ASU will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In December 2011, the FASB issued ASU 2011-11, Balance Sheet- Disclosures about Offsetting Assets and Liabilities. This ASU requires enhanced disclosures about financial instruments and derivative instruments that are offset in accordance with ASC 210-20-45 or ASC 815-10-45 or subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. This ASU will facilitate comparison between those entities reporting on the basis of U.S. GAAP and those entities reporting on the basis of IFRS, while allowing financial statement users to understand the effect of offsetting and related arrangements. The ASU will be effective beginning in 2013. The adoption of this ASU will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Quarterly Financial Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

Quarterly Financial Information

Note 21—Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)


	2011
	Quarters								Year
(In thousands, except earnings per share)	1st		2nd		3rd		4th		Year
Net sales	$	276,499	$	294,733	$	298,241	$	303,754	$	1,173,227
Gross profit		110,397		119,009		120,888		119,942		470,236
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		13,309		19,592		19,972		16,979		69,852
Earnings per share attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders:
Basic		.36		.53		.54		.46		1.91
Diluted		.36		.53		.54		.46		1.87


	2010
	Quarters								Year
(In thousands, except earnings per share)	1st		2nd		3rd		4th		Year
Net sales	$	212,434	$	237,173	$	242,019	$	285,005	$	976,631
Gross profit		82,453		90,226		90,679		106,741		370,099
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		4,906		11,827		9,603		11,768		38,104
Earnings per share attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders:
Basic		.14		.33		.27		.33		1.06
Diluted		.14		.32		.26		.32		1.05

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure may include a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income or loss before extraordinary items and earnings per share data. It also includes an indication if the information in the note is unaudited, comments on the aggregate effect of year-end adjustments, and an explanation of matters or transactions that affect comparability or are pertinent to an understanding of the information furnished.

+ References + Details

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY AND AFFILIATES

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011


	2011		2010		2009
	*(In thousands)*
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Balance at beginning of year	$	9,391	$	6,866	$	6,050
Additions—
Charged to costs and expenses		1,148		3,294		2,602
Deductions—
Deductions from reserves (1)		3,496		769		1,786

Balance at end of year		7,043		9,391		6,866

Income tax valuation allowance:
Balance at beginning of year	$	4,323	$	3,174	$	2,973
Additions—
Charged to costs and expenses		—		1,149		201
Deductions—
Deductions from reserves		1,546		—		—

Balance at end of year		2,777		4,323		3,174

(1)	Bad debts written off, net of recoveries.

Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Use Of Estimates	*Use of Estimates—*The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Principles Of Consolidation	*Principles of Consolidation—*The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the company and all subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.
Noncontrolling Interests	*Noncontrolling Interests—*Noncontrolling interests reflect noncontrolling shareholders' original investments in certain consolidated subsidiaries and their proportionate share of the income and accumulated other comprehensive income of those subsidiaries.
Currency Translation	*Currency Translation—*The functional currency of all significant non-U.S. subsidiaries is the local currency. Assets and liabilities of these operations are translated at year-end exchange rates. Income statement accounts are translated using the average exchange rates for the reporting period. Translation adjustments for these companies are reported as a component of shareholders' equity and are not included in income. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in net income for the reporting period.
Cash Equivalents	*Cash Equivalents—*Cash equivalents include temporary deposits with financial institutions and highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less.
Inventories	*Inventories—* Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Most U.S. inventories are valued on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost method. Other inventories are valued on the average cost method or at standard costs which approximate actual costs.
Property And Depreciation	*Property and Depreciation—*Property is recorded at cost. Depreciation is computed using straight-line and accelerated methods over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally as follows: buildings 20 to 40 years and machinery and equipment 3 to 10 years. Expenditures for significant renewals and improvements are capitalized. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Gains or losses on property dispositions are included in income and the cost and related depreciation are removed from the accounts. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $27.1 million, $25.5 million and $25.0 million respectively.
Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets	*Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets—*Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to impairment write-down tests. We test the goodwill of each of our reporting units for impairment at least annually. The annual goodwill impairment tests are performed as of September 30 each year. For this purpose, we consider our operating segments to be our reporting units. Fair value is estimated using discounted cash flow methodologies. There has been no impairment of our goodwill as of December 31, 2011. Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives.
Revenue Recognition	*Revenue Recognition—*Revenue from the sale of products is recognized when title, ownership and the risk of loss have transferred to the customer, which generally occurs either when product is shipped to the customer or, in the case of most U.S. distributor customers, when product is delivered to the customer's delivery site. We establish our shipping terms according to local practice and market characteristics. We do not ship product unless we have an order or other documentation authorizing shipment to our customers. We make appropriate provisions for uncollectible accounts receivable and product returns, both of which have historically been insignificant in relation to our net sales. Certain distributor customers receive price rebates based on their level of purchases and other performance criteria that are documented in established distributor programs. These rebates are accrued as a reduction of net sales as they are earned by the customer.
Shipping And Handling	*Shipping and Handling—*Shipping and handling expenses for products sold to customers are charged to cost of products sold as incurred. Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling are included in net sales.
Product Warranties	*Product Warranties—*Estimated expenses related to product warranties and additional service actions are charged to cost of products sold in the period in which the related revenue is recognized or when significant product quality issues are identified.
Research And Development	*Research and Development—*Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.
Income Taxes	*Income Taxes—*Deferred income taxes are provided for temporary differences between financial and tax reporting. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. If it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is recognized. We record tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return when such benefits meet a more likely than not threshold. We recognize interest related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in operating expenses. No provision is made for possible U.S. taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries that are considered to be reinvested indefinitely.
Stock-Based Compensation	*Stock-Based Compensation—*We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with the FASB guidance on share-based payment, which requires that we recognize compensation expense for employee and non-employee director stock-based compensation based on the grant date fair value. Except for retirement-eligible participants, for whom there is no requisite service period, this expense is recognized ratably over the requisite service periods following the date of grant. For retirement-eligible participants, this expense is recognized at the grant date.
Derivative Instruments	*Derivative Instruments—*We may use derivative instruments to minimize the effects of changes in currency exchange rates and to achieve a targeted mix of fixed and floating interest rates on outstanding debt. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes and do not hold derivative instruments for trading purposes. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are recorded in the balance sheet as adjustments to the underlying hedged asset or liability. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment are recognized in the income statement in the current period.

Inventories (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Inventories [Abstract]

Schedule Of Inventories


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011		2010
Finished products	$	65,687	$	71,743
Work in process		17,000		16,494
Raw materials and supplies		58,788		62,344

Total inventories		141,475		150,581
Excess of FIFO costs over LIFO costs		47,368		45,820

Total FIFO inventories		188,843		196,401

Capital Stock (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Capital Stock [Abstract]

Schedule Of Common Stock Activity


	Shares								Dollars
(Dollars in thousands)	Issued		Stock Compensation Trust			Treasury			Common Stock			Stock Compensation Trust			Treasury Cost
Balances January 1, 2009		62,081,391		(2,378,462	)		(23,916,639	)	$	69,607		$	(12,416	)	$	(256,077	)
Restricted stock awards		—		178,692			—			(934	)		934			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			3,128			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(8,369	)		(101	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		25,566			—			122			133			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,620			—			—
Stock option forfeitures		—		—			—			(155	)		—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			375			—			—
Performance stock forfeitures		—		—			—			(7	)		—			—
Tax provision related to stock plans		—		—			—			(386	)		—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(9,661	)		—			—			(206	)

Balances December 31, 2009		62,081,391		(2,174,204	)		(23,934,669	)		74,269			(11,349	)		(256,283	)
Restricted stock awards		—		162,925			—			(850	)		850			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			4,103			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(1,092	)		(40	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		650,565			—			4,413			3,396			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,748			—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			524			—			—
Tax benefit related to stock plans		—		—			—			3,462			—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(265,190	)		—			—			(7,572	)

Balances December 31, 2010		62,081,391		(1,360,714	)		(24,200,951	)		88,629			(7,103	)		(263,855	)
Restricted stock awards		—		103,815			—			(542	)		542			—
Restricted stock expense		—		—			—			4,376			—			—
Restricted stock forfeitures		—		—			(7,469	)		(6	)		—			—
Stock options exercised		—		94,115			—			825			491			—
Stock option expense		—		—			—			2,343			—			—
Performance stock expense		—		—			—			1,019			—			—
Tax benefit related to stock plans		—		—			—			632			—			—
Treasury shares purchased		—		—			(17,597	)		—			—			(624	)

Balances December 31, 2011		62,081,391		(1,162,784	)		(24,226,017	)		97,276			(6,070	)		264,479

Segment Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Segment Information [Abstract]

Reportable Segment Information


(In thousands)	North America		Europe			International			Reconciling Items			Consolidated Totals
2011
Sales to external customers	$	561,140	$	286,753		$	325,334		$	—		$	1,173,227
Intercompany sales		100,094		116,471			18,305			(234,870	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		57,914		7,331			27,152			(22,545	)		69,852
Total assets		742,707		340,305			194,127			(162,087	)		1,115,052
Interest income		78		192			1,267			324			1,861
Interest expense		29		253			138			13,697			14,117
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		22,036		6,239			4,591			—			32,866
Pension income (expense)		10,800		(5,638	)		(195	)		—			4,967
Income tax provision		34,327		3,994			6,442			(9,990	)		34,773
Capital expenditures		20,035		4,384			5,971			—			30,390
Long-lived assets		127,361		29,981			35,540			—			192,882
2010
Sales to external customers		464,012		251,107			261,512			—			976,631
Intercompany sales		84,905		92,526			16,410			(193,841	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		44,560		(5,371	)		15,835			(16,920	)		38,104
Total assets		810,345		336,095			205,837			(155,089	)		1,197,188
Interest income		329		110			1,212			328			1,979
Interest expense		51		160			100			8,396			8,707
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		18,918		6,116			4,158			—			29,192
Pension income (expense)		13,451		(6,590	)		(470	)		—			6,391
Income tax provision		22,032		769			5,720			(10,231	)		18,290
Capital expenditures		16,806		4,667			3,551			—			25,024
Long-lived assets		142,241		33,199			35,229			—			210,669
2009
Sales to external customers		434,575		257,860			217,556			—			909,991
Intercompany sales		61,351		86,632			13,892			(161,875	)		—
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		43,780		4,483			6,717			(11,685	)		43,295
Total assets		523,708		284,429			183,742			(116,651	)		875,228
Interest income		123		239			759			368			1,489
Interest expense		37		167			143			6,733			7,080
Noncash items:
Depreciation and amortization		17,369		6,178			3,815			—			27,362
Pension income (expense)		8,329		(5,508	)		(166	)		—			2,655
Income tax provision		24,314		2,714			2,070			(7,095	)		22,003
Capital expenditures		14,742		5,640			5,355			—			25,737
Long-lived assets		95,291		28,447			34,380			—			158,118

Schedule Of Geographic Information On Sales To External Customers, Based On Country Of Origin


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
United States	$	538,257	$	447,029	$	422,349
Germany		75,536		77,858		79,553
Other		559,434		451,744		408,089

Total		1,173,227		976,631		909,991

Schedule Of Geographic Information On Long-Lived Assets, Based On Country Of Origin


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
United States	$	124,035	$	139,161	$	92,312
Germany		9,425		10,570		13,110
Other		59,422		60,938		52,696

Total		192,882		210,669		158,118

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the profit or loss and total assets for each reportable segment. An entity discloses certain information on each reportable segment if the amounts (a) are included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) are otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or loss.

+ References + Details

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule Of Earnings Per Share


(In thousands, except per share amounts)	2011			2010			2009
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$	69,852		$	38,104		$	43,295
Preferred stock dividends		(42	)		(42	)		(42	)

Income available to common equity		69,810			38,062			43,253
Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities		(755	)		(365	)		(327	)

Income available to common shareholders		69,055			37,697			42,926

Basic earnings per common share	$	1.91		$	1.06		$	1.21

Diluted earnings per common share	$	1.87		$	1.05		$	1.21

Basic shares outstanding		36,221			35,880			35,668
Stock options and other stock compensation		610			542			211

Diluted shares outstanding		36,831			36,422			35,879

Antidilutive stock options		894			760			749

Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Income Taxes [Abstract]

Components Of Income Before Income Taxes


(In thousands)	2011			2010		2009
Components of income before income taxes
U.S. income	$	58,817		$	38,398	$	33,393
Non-U.S. income		46,001			18,951		31,947

Income before income taxes		104,818			57,349		65,340

Provision for income taxes
Current
Federal	$	6,829		$	9,498	$	12,935
State		872			149		1,398
Non-U.S.		18,272			1,481		11,046

Total current provision		25,973			11,128		25,379

Deferred
Federal		10,853			3,862		313
State		772			194		(1,438	)
Non-U.S.		(2,825	)		3,106		(2,251	)

Total deferred provision (benefit).		8,800			7,162		(3,376	)

Provision for income taxes		34,773			18,290		22,003

Reconciliation Of U.S. Federal Income Tax Rates To Effective Tax Rate


	2011			2010			2009
U.S. federal income tax rate		35.0	%		35.0	%		35.0	%
State income taxes—U.S.		1.0			0.4			1.4
Taxes on non-U.S. income		(2.1	)		(0.8	)		(0.4	)
Research and development credits		(1.3	)		(2.3	)		(1.2	)
Manufacturing deduction		(0.3	)		(1.9	)		(0.8	)
Valuation allowances		0.1			2.0			0.4
Statutory rate changes		—			—			(0.9	)
Other		0.8			(0.5	)		0.2

Effective income tax rate		33.2	%		31.9	%		33.7	%

Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011			2010
Deferred tax assets
Postretirement benefits	$	13,561		$	16,369
Inventory reserves		3,773			2,830
Vacation allowances		1,319			1,535
Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards		9,436			10,209
Post employment benefits		2,400			3,085
Foreign tax credit carryforwards (expiring between 2012 and 2020)		3,463			3,535
Stock options		7,815			6,446
Liability insurance		4,116			3,759
Basis of capital assets		1,102			1,970
Warranties		2,903			2,775
Reserve for doubtful accounts		1,581			2,226
Deferred revenue		217			1,240
Other		3,788			2,219

Total deferred tax assets		55,474			58,198
Valuation allowances		(2,777	)		(4,323	)

Net deferred tax assets		52,697			53,875

Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment		(13,565	)		(22,697	)
Pension		(18,609	)		(44,897	)
Intangibles		(16,209	)		(1,527	)
Other		(973	)		—

Total deferred tax liabilities		(49,356	)		(69,121	)

Net deferred taxes		3,341			(15,246	)

Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Change In Tax Liability For Unrecognized Tax Benefits


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Beginning balance	$	11,827		$	9,126
Additions for tax positions related to the current year		1,268			3,183
Adjustments for tax positions related to prior years		(9	)		39
Statute expiration		(259	)		(247	)
Settlements		—			(274	)

Ending balance		12,827			11,827

Stock Plans (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Stock Plans [Abstract]

Schedule Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense


(In thousands)	2011		2010		2009
Restricted stock	$	4,370	$	4,063	$	3,027
Stock options		2,343		2,748		2,465
Performance stock		1,019		524		368

Total compensation expense before income taxes		7,732		7,335		5,860
Income tax benefit		2,825		2,653		2,084

Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit		4,907		4,682		3,776

Schedule Of Fair Value Weighted Average Assumptions For Options Granted


	2011			2010			2009
Fair value per option	$	9.94		$	7.21		$	5.80
Risk-free interest rate		2.6	%		3.0	%		2.2	%
Expected dividend yield		3.6	%		3.9	%		3.0	%
Expected volatility		40	%		40	%		42	%
Expected life (years)		6.1			6.1			6.1

Summary Of Option Activity


	Shares			Weighted Average Exercise Price		Exercisable at Year-end
Outstanding January 1, 2009		1,706,439		$	26.65		1,229,907
Granted		438,110			18.17
Exercised		(25,566	)		10.00
Forfeited		(33,908	)		30.16

Outstanding December 31, 2009		2,085,075			25.01		1,323,549
Granted		323,978			25.06
Exercised		(650,565	)		12.00
Expired		(9,485	)		46.73

Outstanding December 31, 2010		1,749,003			29.74		791,759
Granted		166,247			34.09
Exercised		(94,115	)		13.99
Expired		(2,495	)		44.08

Outstanding December 31, 2011		1,818,640			30.94		907,598

Schedule Of Exercise Price Ranges, Characteristics Of Outstanding And Exercisable Stock Options


	Stock Options Outstanding
	Shares		Weighted-Average
Range of Exercise Prices	Shares		Exercise Price		Remaining Life
$10.65 – $21.71		486,670	$	17.23	6.4 Years
$24.63 – $37.33		604,371		27.58	7.3
$40.08 – $50.25		727,599		42.89	4.2

$10.65 – $50.25		1,818,640		30.94	5.8


	Stock Options Exercisable
	Shares		Weighted-Average
Range of Exercise Prices	Shares		Exercise Price		Remaining Life
$10.65 – $13.57		65,853	$	11.11		1.1 Years
$25.07 – $28.06		114,146		25.27		2.2
$40.08 – $50.25		727,599		42.89		4.2

$10.65 – $50.25		907,598		38.37		3.7

Summary Of Restricted Stock Activity


	Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at January 1, 2009		189,062		$	42.56
Granted		197,464			18.25
Vested		(39,319	)		40.57
Forfeited		(9,001	)		27.64

Unvested at December 31, 2009		338,206			28.99
Granted		185,216			25.38
Vested		(46,125	)		39.88
Forfeited		(3,660	)		23.93

Unvested at December 31, 2010		473,637			26.56
Granted		125,603			33.61
Vested		(76,505	)		44.39
Forfeited		(10,481	)		24.87

Unvested at December 31, 2011		512,254			25.66

Summary Of Performance Stock Unit Activity


	Shares			Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted		64,780		$	17.83
Forfeited		(2,806	)		17.83

Unvested at December 31, 2009		61,974			17.83
Granted		41,984			24.63
Performance adjustments		(18,329	)		20.75

Unvested at December 31, 2010		85,629			20.53
Granted		48,820			33.09
Performance adjustments		(7,506	)		21.14
Forfeited		(1,500	)		30.53

Unvested at December 31, 2011		125,443			25.27

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Long-Term Debt [Abstract]

Schedule Of Outstanding Debt


	December 31
(In thousands)	2011		2010
Industrial development debt issues payable through 2022, 0.30%	$	4,000	$	4,000
Senior Notes payable through 2012, 8.39%		8,046		16,160
Senior Notes payable through 2021, 5.41%		60,000		60,000
Senior Notes payable through 2021, 4.00%		100,000		100,000
Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2016		170,000		195,000
Note payable through 2011, net of unamortized discount of $66		—		1,934

Total		342,046		377,094
Amounts due within one year		8,000		10,000

Long-term debt		334,046		367,094

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]

Changes In Goodwill


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Net balance at January 1	$	263,089		$	84,727
Acquisitions		—			179,900
Disposals		(1,800	)		—
Currency translation		(2,205	)		(1,538	)

Net balance at December 31		259,084			263,089

Changes In Intangible Assets, Net Of Accumulated Amortization


(In thousands)	2011			2010
Net balance at January 1	$	53,880		$	13,543
Amortization expense		(5,728	)		(3,698	)
Acquisitions		—			43,956
Disposals		(518	)		—
Currency translation		(515	)		79

Net balance at December 31		47,119			53,880

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total. Disclosure details may include, but are not limited to, the carrying amount of goodwill, goodwill acquired during the year, goodwill impairment losses recognized, goodwill written-off due to the sale of a business unit, goodwill not yet allocated, and any other changes to goodwill.

+ References + Details

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]

Schedule Of Defined Benefit Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits Plan


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
(In thousands)	2011			2010			2011			2010
Change in Benefit Obligations
Benefit obligations at January 1	$	349,755		$	330,757		$	32,734		$	30,014
Service cost		8,674			7,702			785			763
Interest cost		19,531			18,615			1,501			1,729
Participant contributions		153			137			—			—
Actuarial losses (gains)		37,973			14,441			(2,281	)		2,011
Benefits paid		(18,931	)		(17,249	)		(2,314	)		(1,783	)
Curtailments		(54	)		(1,057	)		—			—
Termination benefits		—			926			—			—
Currency translation		(2,832	)		(4,517	)		—			—

Benefit obligations at December 31		394,269			349,755			30,425			32,734

Change in Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at January 1		377,607			342,874			—			—
Actual return on plan assets		(4,428	)		48,001			—			—
Employer contributions		4,259			3,501			2,314			1,783
Participant contributions		153			137			245			234
Transfers		—			—			—			—
Benefits paid		(16,308	)		(14,659	)		(2,559	)		(2,017	)
Reimbursement of German benefits		(2,622	)		(2,589	)		—			—
Currency translation		(694	)		342			—			—

Fair value of plan assets at December 31		357,967			377,607			—			—

Funded Status
Funded status at December 31		(36,302	)		27,851			(30,425	)		(32,734	)
Unrecognized transition losses		24			42			—			—
Unrecognized prior service cost		808			923			(3,072	)		(3,527	)
Unrecognized net actuarial losses		158,425			82,903			12,212			15,202

Net amount recognized		122,955			111,719			(21,285	)		(21,059	)

Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet
Noncurrent assets		58,075			121,631			—			—
Current liabilities		(4,722	)		(4,779	)		(2,096	)		(2,538	)
Noncurrent liabilities		(89,655	)		(89,001	)		(28,329	)		(30,196	)

Net amount recognized		(36,302	)		27,851			(30,425	)		(32,734	)

Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Net actuarial losses		158,425			82,903			12,212			15,202
Prior service cost (credit)		808			923			(3,072	)		(3,527	)
Unrecognized net initial obligation		24			42			—			—

Total (before tax effects)		159,257			83,868			9,140			11,675

Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans		347,636			332,544			—			—

Components Of Net Periodic Benefit (Credit) Cost


	Pension Benefits									Other Benefits
(In thousands)	2011			2010			2009			2011			2010			2009
Components of Net Periodic Benefit (Credit) Cost
Service cost	$	8,674		$	7,702		$	7,229		$	785		$	763		$	719
Interest cost		19,531			18,615			18,477			1,501			1,730			1,836
Expected return on plan assets		(34,125	)		(34,565	)		(35,273	)		—			—			—
Amortization of transition amounts		4			4			6			—			—			—
Amortization of prior service cost		104			103			153			710			840			1,001
Recognized net actuarial losses (gains)		793			537			245			(455	)		(555	)		(401	)
Curtailment loss		52			287			97			—			—			—
Termination benefits		—			926			6,411			—			—			250

Net periodic benefit (credit) cost		(4,967	)		(6,391	)		(2,655	)		2,541			2,778			3,405

Schedule Of Amounts Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected To Be Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Costs


(In thousands)	Pension Benefits		Other Benefits
Loss recognition	$	7,020	$	720
Prior service cost (credit) recognition		102		(455	)
Transition obligation recognition		2		—

Schedule Of Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligations And Net Periodic Benefit Cost


	Pension Benefits						Other Benefits
	2011			2010			2011			2010
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate		5.0	%		5.6	%		4.8	%		5.3	%
Rate of compensation increase		3.9	%		3.7	%		—			—
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate		5.6	%		5.8	%		5.3	%		6.0	%
Expected return on plan assets		8.3	%		8.3	%		—			—
Rate of compensation increases		3.7	%		3.8	%		—			—

Schedule Of Expected Return On Assets For Net Periodic Pension Cost


	Pension Plan Assets at December 31
	2011			2010
Equity securities		60	%		73	%
Fixed income securities		29			15
Pooled investment funds		6			5
Insurance contracts		3			3
Cash and cash equivalents		2			4

Total		100	%		100	%

Summary Of Pension Plan Assets Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis By Fair Value Hierarchy


	December 31, 2011
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Total Fair Value
Equity securities	$	216,198	$	—	$	—	$	216,198
Fixed income securities		34,636		68,087		—		102,723
Pooled investment funds		—		19,765		—		19,765
Insurance contracts ents		—		—		11,562		11,562
Cash and cash equivalents		7,719		—		—		7,719

Total		258,553		87,852		11,562		357,967


	December 31, 2010
(In thousands)	Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)		Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)		Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Total Fair Value
Equity securities	$	274,918	$	—	$	—	$	274,918
Fixed income securities		9,218		49,401		—		58,619
Pooled investment funds		—		19,338		—		19,338
Cash and cash equivalents		14,007		—		—		14,007
Insurance contracts		—		—		10,725		10,725

Total		298,143		68,739		10,725		377,607

Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Level 3 Assets


(In thousands)	Insurance Contracts
Balance January 1, 2010	$	9,878
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings		(406	)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements		1,253

Balance December 31, 2010		10,725
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings		(325	)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements		1,162

Balance December 31, 2011		11,562

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of one or more of the entity's defined benefit pension plans or one or more other defined benefit postretirement plans, separately for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans including the entity's schedule of fair value of plan assets for defined benefit or other postretirement plans.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5, 6, 7
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 158
-Paragraph 4, 7, 16, 20, 21
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6962843&loc=d3e1928-114920

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 55
-Paragraph 17
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6930749&loc=d3e4179-114921

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6962843&loc=d3e2410-114920

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6962843&loc=d3e2439-114920

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 715
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6962843&loc=d3e2417-114920

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 132R
-Paragraph 5
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Other Income (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Other Income [Abstract]

Schedule Of Other Income


(In thousands)	2011		2010			2009
Interest income	$	1,861	$	1,979		$	1,489
Gain on asset dispositions, net		3,328		5,135			4,919
Other, net		192		(1,077	)		(548	)

Total		5,381		6,037			5,860

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]

Balance Sheet Location And Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Associated With Derivative Financial Instruments


(In thousands)	December 31 2011		December 31 2010
Derivaties not designated as hedging instruments
Foreign exchange contracts:
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	$	—	$	4
Other current liabilities		50		—

Income Statement Location And Impact Of Derivative Financial Instruments

(In thousands)

Income Statement
Location

Loss
Recognized in Income

Year ended
December 31

2011

2010

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Foreign exchange contracts

Currency exchange

losses (gains)

1,282

274

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the location and amount of gains and losses reported in the statement of financial performance, or when applicable, the statement of financial position. For example, (a) gains and losses recognized in the income statement on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges and (b) gains and losses initially recognized in other comprehensive income on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges.

+ References + Details

Acquisitions (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Acquisitions [Abstract]

Fair Values Of Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed


(In millions)	October 13, 2010
Current assets (including cash of $18.6 million)	$	46.8
Property		14.0
Trade name		6.0
Acquired technology		11.0
Customer-related intangibles		27.0
Goodwill		179.9
Other noncurrent assets		3.5

Total assets acquired		288.2
Total liabilities assumed		10.0

Net assets acquired		278.2

Schedule Of Pro Forma Financial Information


	Year ended December 31
(In millions, except per share amounts)	2011		2010		2009
Net sales	$	1,173	$	1,032	$	989
Net income		71		50		51
Basic earnings per share		1.95		1.39		1.44
Diluted earnings per share		1.92		1.37		1.43

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of pro forma results of operations for a material business acquisition or series of individually immaterial business acquisitions that are material in the aggregate.

+ References + Details

Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Contingencies [Abstract]

Summary Of Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Claims Activity


	2011			2010			2009
Open claims, January 1		1,900			2,480			2,550
New claims		479			260			220
Settled and dismissed claims		(58	)		(840	)		(290	)

Open claims, December 31		2,321			1,900			2,480

Summary Of Insurance Receivable Balances And Activity Related To Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Losses


(In millions)	2011			2010			2009
Balance January 1	$	89.0		$	91.7		$	60.6
Additions		35.6			30.9			33.1
Collections and settlements		(12.5	)		(33.6	)		(2.0	)

Balance December 31		112.1			89.0			91.7

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of exposure to material amount of loss arising from allegations of damages pertaining to and arising from one or more of the entity's products.

+ References + Details

Quarterly Financial Information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information

Note 21—Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)


	2011
	Quarters								Year
(In thousands, except earnings per share)	1st		2nd		3rd		4th		Year
Net sales	$	276,499	$	294,733	$	298,241	$	303,754	$	1,173,227
Gross profit		110,397		119,009		120,888		119,942		470,236
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		13,309		19,592		19,972		16,979		69,852
Earnings per share attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders:
Basic		.36		.53		.54		.46		1.91
Diluted		.36		.53		.54		.46		1.87


	2010
	Quarters								Year
(In thousands, except earnings per share)	1st		2nd		3rd		4th		Year
Net sales	$	212,434	$	237,173	$	242,019	$	285,005	$	976,631
Gross profit		82,453		90,226		90,679		106,741		370,099
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company		4,906		11,827		9,603		11,768		38,104
Earnings per share attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders:
Basic		.14		.33		.27		.33		1.06
Diluted		.14		.32		.26		.32		1.05

Significant Accounting Policies (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Significant Accounting Policies (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($) years	Dec. 31, 2010 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2009 USD ($)
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Cash equivalents, maximum maturity period (in days)	90
Depreciation \| $	$ 27.1	$ 25.5	$ 25.0
Building [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets, minimum, years	20
Estimated useful lives of the assets, maximum, years	40
Machinery And Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives of the assets, minimum, years	3
Estimated useful lives of the assets, maximum, years	10

Restructuring And Other Charges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other charges	$ 8.6	$ 14.1	$ 11.4
European Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Staff reductions charges	5.8
Severance costs			0.8
North American Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Costs associated with the relocation of certain administrative and production activities	1.7
Voluntary retirement incentive program			9.6
Stay bonuses and other costs		3.8
International Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Severance costs	$ 1.1	1.5	$ 1.0
Germany Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program [Member] \| European Segment [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Voluntary retirement incentive program		$ 8.8

Inventories (Schedule Of Inventories) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Inventories [Abstract]
Finished products	$ 65,687	$ 71,743
Work in process	17,000	16,494
Raw materials and supplies	58,788	62,344
Total inventories	141,475	150,581
Excess of FIFO costs over LIFO costs	47,368	45,820
Total FIFO inventories	$ 188,843	$ 196,401
Percentage of LIFO inventories on total inventories	18.00%	22.00%
Effect of LIFO liquidations, reduced cost of sales	$ 500
Effect of LIFO liquidations, increased net income	$ 300

Capital Stock (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common stock, no par value
Common stock, shares authorized	180,000,000
Preferred stock, par value	$ 50	$ 50
Treasury stock value	$ 266,231	$ 265,606
Second Cumulative Preferred Voting Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value	$ 10
Preferred stock, shares authorized	1,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0
4 1/2% Cumulative Preferred Nonvoting Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value	$ 50
Preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000
Preferred stock, dividend percentage	4.50%
Preferred stock, shares issued	71,373
Treasury share, number of shares held	52,878
Treasury stock value	$ 1,800

Capital Stock (Schedule Of Common Stock Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Restricted stock expense	$ 4,370	$ 4,063	$ 3,027
Stock option expense	2,343	2,748	$ 2,465
Treasury shares purchased	$ (266,231)	$ (265,606)
Balance, shares	36,692,590	36,519,726
Common Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Balance, shares	62,081,391	62,081,391	62,081,391	62,081,391
Balance	$ 88,629	$ 74,269	$ 69,607
Restricted stock awards	(542)	(850)	(934)
Restricted stock expense	4,376	4,103	3,128
Restricted stock forfeitures	(6)	(40)	(101)
Stock options exercised	825	4,413	122
Stock option expense	2,343	2,748	2,620
Stock option forfeitures			(155)
Performance stock expense	1,019	524	375
Performance stock forfeitures			(7)
Tax provision related to stock plans	632	3,462	(386)
Balance	$ 97,276	$ 88,629	$ 74,269
Stock Compensation Trust [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Balance, shares	(1,162,784)	(1,360,714)	(2,174,204)	(2,378,462)
Balance	$ (7,103)	$ (11,349)	$ (12,416)
Restricted stock awards	$ 542	$ 850	$ 934
Restricted stock awards, shares	103,815	162,925	178,692
Stock options exercised	$ 491	$ 3,396	$ 133
Stock options exercised, shares	94,115	650,565	25,566
Balance	$ (6,070)	$ (7,103)	$ (11,349)
Treasury [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Balance, shares	(24,226,017)	(24,200,951)	(23,934,669)	(23,916,639)
Balance	$ (263,855)	$ (256,283)	$ (256,077)
Restricted stock forfeitures, shares	(7,469)	(1,092)	(8,369)
Treasury shares purchased, shares	(17,597)	(265,190)	(9,661)
Treasury shares purchased	$ (624)	$ (7,572)	$ (206)
Balance	$ 264,479	$ (263,855)	$ (256,283)

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
North America [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net income effected by segment revisions	$ 10.0	$ 8.8
Europe [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net income effected by segment revisions	2.2	2.1
International [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net income effected by segment revisions	$ 1.9	$ 1.6

Segment Information (Reportable Segment Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers	$ 303,754	$ 298,241	$ 294,733	$ 276,499	$ 285,005	$ 242,019	$ 237,173	$ 212,434	$ 1,173,227	$ 976,631	$ 909,991
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	16,979	$ 19,972	$ 19,592	$ 13,309	11,768	$ 9,603	$ 11,827	$ 4,906	69,852	38,104	43,295
Total assets	1,115,052				1,197,188				1,115,052	1,197,188	875,228
Interest income									1,861	1,979	1,489
Interest expense									14,117	8,707	7,080
Depreciation and amortization									32,866	29,192	27,362
Pension income (expense)									4,967	6,391	2,655
Income tax provision									34,773	18,290	22,003
Capital expenditures									30,390	25,024	25,737
Long-lived assets	192,882				210,669				192,882	210,669	158,118
North America [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									561,140	464,012	434,575
Intercompany sales									100,094	84,905	61,351
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company									57,914	44,560	43,780
Total assets	742,707				810,345				742,707	810,345	523,708
Interest income									78	329	123
Interest expense									29	51	37
Depreciation and amortization									22,036	18,918	17,369
Pension income (expense)									10,800	13,451	8,329
Income tax provision									34,327	22,032	24,314
Capital expenditures									20,035	16,806	14,742
Long-lived assets	127,361				142,241				127,361	142,241	95,291
Europe [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									286,753	251,107	257,860
Intercompany sales									116,471	92,526	86,632
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company									7,331	(5,371)	4,483
Total assets	340,305				336,095				340,305	336,095	284,429
Interest income									192	110	239
Interest expense									253	160	167
Depreciation and amortization									6,239	6,116	6,178
Pension income (expense)									(5,638)	(6,590)	(5,508)
Income tax provision									3,994	769	2,714
Capital expenditures									4,384	4,667	5,640
Long-lived assets	29,981				33,199				29,981	33,199	28,447
International [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									325,334	261,512	217,556
Intercompany sales									18,305	16,410	13,892
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company									27,152	15,835	6,717
Total assets	194,127				205,837				194,127	205,837	183,742
Interest income									1,267	1,212	759
Interest expense									138	100	143
Depreciation and amortization									4,591	4,158	3,815
Pension income (expense)									(195)	(470)	(166)
Income tax provision									6,442	5,720	2,070
Capital expenditures									5,971	3,551	5,355
Long-lived assets	35,540				35,229				35,540	35,229	34,380
Reconciling Items [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Intercompany sales									(234,870)	(193,841)	(161,875)
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company									(22,545)	(16,920)	(11,685)
Total assets	$ (162,087)				$ (155,089)				(162,087)	(155,089)	(116,651)
Interest income									324	328	368
Interest expense									13,697	8,396	6,733
Income tax provision									$ (9,990)	$ (10,231)	$ (7,095)

Segment Information (Schedule Of Geographic Information On Sales To External Customers, Based On Country Of Origin) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 303,754	$ 298,241	$ 294,733	$ 276,499	$ 285,005	$ 242,019	$ 237,173	$ 212,434	$ 1,173,227	$ 976,631	$ 909,991
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers									538,257	447,029	422,349
Germany [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers									75,536	77,858	79,553
Other [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue from External Customers									$ 559,434	$ 451,744	$ 408,089

Segment Information (Schedule Of Geographic Information On Long-Lived Assets, Based On Country Of Origin) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Long-Lived Assets	$ 192,882	$ 210,669	$ 158,118
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Long-Lived Assets	124,035	139,161	92,312
Germany [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Long-Lived Assets	9,425	10,570	13,110
Other [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Long-Lived Assets	$ 59,422	$ 60,938	$ 52,696

Earnings Per Share (Schedule Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$ 16,979	$ 19,972	$ 19,592	$ 13,309	$ 11,768	$ 9,603	$ 11,827	$ 4,906	$ 69,852	$ 38,104	$ 43,295
Preferred stock dividends									(42)	(42)	(42)
Income available to common equity									69,810	38,062	43,253
Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities									(755)	(365)	(327)
Income available to common shareholders									$ 69,055	$ 37,697	$ 42,926
Basic earnings per common share	$ 0.46	$ 0.54	$ 0.53	$ 0.36	$ 0.33	$ 0.27	$ 0.33	$ 0.14	$ 1.91	$ 1.06	$ 1.21
Diluted earnings per common share	$ 0.46	$ 0.54	$ 0.53	$ 0.36	$ 0.32	$ 0.26	$ 0.32	$ 0.14	$ 1.87	$ 1.05	$ 1.21
Basic shares outstanding									36,221	35,880	35,668
Stock options and other stock compensation									610	542	211
Diluted shares outstanding									36,831	36,422	35,879
Antidilutive stock options									894	760	749

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 31.0
Net operating loss carryforward expiring in 2013	$ 0.1
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration year	2013
Deferred income taxes on undistributed earnings	$ 0.0
Undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries	229.0
Recognized tax benefits	11.4	$ 10.5
Liability for interest expense and penalties accrued	0.9	$ 0.8
Accrued additional interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions	$ 0.1

Income Taxes (Components Of Income Before Income Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Income Taxes [Abstract]
U.S. income	$ 58,817	$ 38,398	$ 33,393
Non-U.S. income	46,001	18,951	31,947
Income before income taxes	104,818	57,349	65,340
Current, Federal	6,829	9,498	12,935
Current, State	872	149	1,398
Current, Non-U.S.	18,272	1,481	11,046
Total current provision	25,973	11,128	25,379
Deferred, Federal	10,853	3,862	313
Deferred, State	772	194	(1,438)
Deferred, Non-U.S.	(2,825)	3,106	(2,251)
Total deferred provision (benefit)	8,800	7,162	(3,376)
Provision for income taxes	$ 34,773	$ 18,290	$ 22,003

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of U.S. Federal Income Tax Rates To Effective Tax Rate) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Income Taxes [Abstract]
U.S. federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes-U.S.	1.00%	0.40%	1.40%
Taxes on non-U.S. income	(2.10%)	(0.80%)	(0.40%)
Research and development credits	(1.30%)	(2.30%)	(1.20%)
Manufacturing deduction	(0.30%)	(1.90%)	(0.80%)
Valuation allowances	0.10%	2.00%	0.40%
Statutory rate changes			(0.90%)
Other	0.80%	(0.50%)	0.20%
Effective income tax rate	33.20%	31.90%	33.70%

Income Taxes (Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Postretirement benefits	$ 13,561	$ 16,369
Inventory reserves	3,773	2,830
Vacation allowances	1,319	1,535
Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards	9,436	10,209
Post employment benefits	2,400	3,085
Foreign tax credit carryforwards (expiring between 2012 and 2020)	3,463	3,535
Stock options	7,815	6,446
Liability insurance	4,116	3,759
Basis of capital assets	1,102	1,970
Warranties	2,903	2,775
Reserve for doubtful accounts	1,581	2,226
Deferred revenue	217	1,240
Other	3,788	2,219
Total deferred tax assets	55,474	58,198
Valuation allowances	(2,777)	(4,323)
Net deferred tax assets	52,697	53,875
Property, plant and equipment	(13,565)	(22,697)
Pension	(18,609)	(44,897)
Intangibles	(16,209)	(1,527)
Other	(973)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(49,356)	(69,121)
Net deferred taxes	$ 3,341	$ (15,246)
Foreign [Member] \| Minimum [Member]
Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Foreign tax credit carryforwards, expiration date	2012
Foreign [Member] \| Maximum [Member]
Components Of Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities [Line Items]
Foreign tax credit carryforwards, expiration date	2020

Income Taxes (Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Change In Tax Liability For Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Beginning balance	$ 11,827	$ 9,126
Additions for tax positions related to the current year	1,268	3,183
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	(9)	39
Statute expiration	(259)	(247)
Settlements		(274)
Ending balance	$ 12,827	$ 11,827

Stock Plans (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
Stock Plans (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($) years shares	Dec. 31, 2010 USD ($) shares	Dec. 31, 2009 USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of tranches in which restricted stock is vested \| years	3
Restricted stock for management retention awards with various vesting periods, years	four, five and six years
Shares reserved for future grants \| shares	355,002	236,489
Stock-based compensation expense capitalized	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Cash proceeds from exercise of options	1,316	7,809	255
Excess tax benefit (provision) related to stock plans	$ 632	3,462	(386)
Number of years historical volatility using daily stock prices over which expected volatility is based	10
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable	$ 0
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding	4,000
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	1,800	10,900	400
Fair value of restricted stock vested	3,400	1,200	700
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 6,300
Weighted average period over which unrecognized stock-based compensation expense is expected to be recognized, in years \| years	1
Minimum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award based on achieving targeted performance conditions	0.00%
Maximum [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award based on achieving targeted performance conditions	200.00%
Stock Options [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options expiration period	ten years
Options exercisable period	three years
Excess tax benefit (provision) related to stock plans	$ 700	$ 4,300	$ 100
Restricted Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options exercisable period	three years

Stock Plans (Schedule Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Stock Plans [Abstract]
Restricted stock	$ 4,370	$ 4,063	$ 3,027
Stock options	2,343	2,748	2,465
Performance stock	1,019	524	368
Total compensation expense before income taxes	7,732	7,335	5,860
Income tax benefit	2,825	2,653	2,084
Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit	$ 4,907	$ 4,682	$ 3,776

Stock Plans (Schedule Of Fair Value Weighted Average Assumptions For Options Granted) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 years $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2010 years $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2009 years $ / shares
Stock Plans [Abstract]
Fair value per option \| $ / shares	$ 9.94	$ 7.21	$ 5.80
Risk-free interest rate	2.60%	3.00%	2.20%
Expected dividend yield	3.60%	3.90%	3.00%
Expected volatility	40.00%	40.00%	42.00%
Expected life (years) \| years	6.1	6.1	6.1

Stock Plans (Summary Of Option Activity) (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Stock Plans [Abstract]
Outstanding Beginning balance, Shares	1,749,003	2,085,075	1,706,439
Granted, Shares	166,247	323,978	438,110
Exercised, Shares	(94,115)	(650,565)	(25,566)
Forfeited, Shares			(33,908)
Expired, Shares	(2,495)	(9,485)
Exercisable at Year-end, Shares	791,759	1,323,549	1,229,907
Outstanding Ending balance, Shares	1,818,640	1,749,003	2,085,075
Outstanding Beginning balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 29.74	$ 25.01	$ 26.65
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price	34.09	25.06	18.17
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price	13.99	12.00	10.00
Forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price			30.16
Expired, Weighted Average Exercise Price	44.08	46.73
Outstanding Ending balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$ 30.94	$ 29.74	$ 25.01
Exercisable at Year-end, Shares	907,598	791,759	1,323,549

Stock Plans (Schedule Of Exercise Price Ranges, Characteristics Of Outstanding Stock Options) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 years $ / shares shares
$10.65 - $21.71 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 10.65
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 21.71
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares \| shares	486,670
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 17.23
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	6.4
$24.63 - $37.33 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 24.63
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 37.33
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares \| shares	604,371
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 27.58
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	7.3
$40.08 - $50.25 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 40.08
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 50.25
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares \| shares	727,599
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 42.89
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	4.2
$10.65 - $50.25 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 10.65
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 50.25
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares \| shares	1,818,640
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 30.94
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	5.8

Stock Plans (Schedule Of Exercise Price Ranges, Characteristics Of Exercisable Stock Options) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 years $ / shares shares
$10.65 - $13.57 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 10.65
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 13.57
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares \| shares	65,853
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 11.11
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	1.1
$25.07 - $28.06 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 25.07
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 28.06
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares \| shares	114,146
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 25.27
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	2.2
$40.08 - $50.25 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 40.08
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 50.25
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares \| shares	727,599
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 42.89
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	4.2
$10.65 - $50.25 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum	$ 10.65
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum	$ 50.25
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares \| shares	907,598
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$ 38.37
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life, in years \| years	3.7

Stock Plans (Summary Of Restricted Stock Activity) (Details) - Restricted Stock Activity [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unvested Beginning balance, Shares	473,637	338,206	189,062
Granted, Shares	125,603	185,216	197,464
Vested, Shares	(76,505)	(46,125)	(39,319)
Forfeited, Shares	(10,481)	(3,660)	(9,001)
Unvested Ending balance, Shares	512,254	473,637	338,206
Unvested Beginning balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair value	$ 26.56	$ 28.99	$ 42.56
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	33.61	25.38	18.25
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	44.39	39.88	40.57
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	24.87	23.93	27.64
Unvested Ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 25.66	$ 26.56	$ 28.99

Stock Plans (Summary Of Performance Stock Unit Activity) (Details) - Performance Stock Unit [Member] - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted, Shares	48,820	41,984	64,780
Forfeited, Shares	(1,500)		(2,806)
Performance adjustment, Shares	(7,506)	(18,329)
Unvested Ending balance, Shares	125,443	85,629	61,974
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 33.09	$ 24.63	$ 17.83
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	30.53		17.83
Performance adjustment, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	21.14	20.75
Unvested Ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 25.27	$ 20.53	$ 17.83

Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Long-Term Debt (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Oct. 31, 2010 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2011 USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Unsecured senior revolving credit facility			$ 300.0	$ 250.0
Unsecured senior revolving credit facility, maturity date		November 2016
Increase in the senior credit facility			$ 50.0
Unused senior revolving credit facility		$ 130.0
Maturity obligation, 2012		8.0
Maturity obligation, 2013		6.7
Maturity obligation, 2014		6.7
Maturity obligation, 2015		6.7
Maturity obligation, 2016		176.7
Maturity obligation, thereafter		$ 137.2
Series A Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Senior Notes	$ 100.0
Senior Notes, interest rate	4.00%
Debt instrument maturity date	Oct. 13, 2021
Number of annual installments payable	5
Senior notes, annual installments payable	$ 20.0
Senior notes, frequency of annual installments payable	quarterly

Long-Term Debt (Schedule Of Outstanding Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2016	$ 170,000	$ 195,000
Note payable through 2011, net of unamortized discount of $66		1,934
Total	342,046	377,094
Amounts due within one year	8,000	10,000
Long-term debt	334,046	367,094
Debt instrument, unamortized discount	66
Industrial Development Debt Issues Payable Through 2022, 0.30% [Member]
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Industrial development debt issues payable through 2022, 0.30%	$ 4,000	4,000
Debt instruments maturity date	2022
Senior Notes, interest rate	0.30%
Senior Notes Payable Through 2012, 8.39% [Member]
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Senior Notes	$ 8,046	16,160
Debt instruments maturity date	2012
Senior Notes, interest rate	8.39%
Senior Notes Payable Through 2021, 5.41% [Member]
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Senior Notes	$ 60,000	60,000
Debt instruments maturity date	2021
Senior Notes, interest rate	5.41%
Senior Notes Payable Through 2021, 4.00% [Member]
Debt Issuance [Line Items]
Senior Notes	$ 100,000	$ 100,000
Debt instruments maturity date	2021
Senior Notes, interest rate	4.00%

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 259,084	$ 263,089	$ 84,727
Intangible assets totaled	47,100
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization	19,800
Disposals of goodwill	1,800
Disposal of intangible assets	500
North American [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	198,300
European [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	57,300
International [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	3,500
Intangible Assets [Member]
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Future amortization expense, 2012	4,300
Future amortization expense, 2013	4,200
Future amortization expense, 2014	4,200
Future amortization expense, 2015	4,200
Future amortization expense, 2016	$ 4,000

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Changes In Goodwill) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Net balance at January 1	$ 263,089	$ 84,727
Acquisitions		179,900
Disposals	(1,800)
Currency translation	(2,205)	(1,538)
Net balance at December 31	$ 259,084	$ 263,089

- Definition

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 142
-Paragraph 45
-Subparagraph e
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 142
-Paragraph 43
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 141R
-Paragraph 68
-Subparagraph l
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6388280&loc=d3e13770-109266

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6905597&loc=d3e13816-109267

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 141R
-Paragraph 72
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 142
-Paragraph 45
-Subparagraph e
-Clause 1
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 141R
-Paragraph 34
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

Goodwill And Intangible Assets (Changes In Intangible Assets, Net Of Accumulated Amortization) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill And Intangible Assets [Abstract]
Net balance at January 1	$ 53,880	$ 13,543
Amortization expense	(5,728)	(3,698)
Acquisitions		43,956
Disposals	(518)
Currency translation	(515)	79
Net balance at December 31	$ 47,119	$ 53,880

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated contributions by employer to pension plans	$ 4.1
Percentage increase in health care benefits cost	9.00%
Percentage decrease in health care benefits for successive year	0.50%
Estimated future percentage of health care benefits	4.50%
Percentage of change in assumed health care cost trend rate	1.00%
Increase or decrease in other postretirement obligations	$ 1.8
Increase or decrease in current year plan expense	1.9
Expense for defined contribution pension plans	5.7	$ 5.2	$ 3.1
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated benefit payments, 2012	18.9
Estimated benefit payments, 2013	19.5
Estimated benefit payments, 2014	19.3
Estimated benefit payments, 2015	20.1
Estimated benefit payments, 2016	22.4
Estimated benefit payments, thereafter	117.4
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated benefit payments, 2012	2.1
Estimated benefit payments, 2013	2.2
Estimated benefit payments, 2014	2.1
Estimated benefit payments, 2015	2.2
Estimated benefit payments, 2016	2.3
Estimated benefit payments, thereafter	$ 12.6

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Defined Benefit Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits Plan) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$ 377,607
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	357,967	$ 377,607
Noncurrent assets	58,075	121,631
Noncurrent liabilities	(124,310)	(126,479)
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	8,674	7,702	$ 7,229
Interest cost	19,531	18,615	18,477
Actuarial losses (gains)	793	537	245
Termination benefits		(926)	(6,411)
Funded status at December 31	(36,302)	27,851
Unrecognized transition losses	24	42
Unrecognized prior service cost	808	923
Unrecognized net actuarial losses	158,425	82,903
Net amount recognized	122,955	111,719
Noncurrent assets	58,075	121,631
Current liabilities	(4,722)	(4,779)
Noncurrent liabilities	(89,655)	(89,001)
Net amount recognized	(36,302)	27,851
Net actuarial losses	158,425	82,903
Prior service cost (credit)	808	923
Unrecognized net initial obligation	24	42
Total (before tax effects)	159,257	83,868
Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans	347,636	332,544
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	785	763	719
Interest cost	1,501	1,730	1,836
Actuarial losses (gains)	(455)	(555)	(401)
Termination benefits			(250)
Funded status at December 31	(30,425)	(32,734)
Unrecognized transition losses
Unrecognized prior service cost	(3,072)	(3,527)
Unrecognized net actuarial losses	12,212	15,202
Net amount recognized	(21,285)	(21,059)
Noncurrent assets
Current liabilities	(2,096)	(2,538)
Noncurrent liabilities	(28,329)	(30,196)
Net amount recognized	(30,425)	(32,734)
Net actuarial losses	12,212	15,202
Prior service cost (credit)	(3,072)	(3,527)
Unrecognized net initial obligation
Total (before tax effects)	9,140	11,675
Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans
Plan Assets [Member] \| Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Participant contributions	153	137
Benefits paid	(16,308)	(14,659)
Transfers
Currency translation	(694)	342
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	377,607	342,874
Actual return on plan assets	(4,428)	48,001
Employer contributions	4,259	3,501
Reimbursement of German benefits	(2,622)	(2,589)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	357,967	377,607	342,874
Plan Assets [Member] \| Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Participant contributions	245	234
Benefits paid	(2,559)	(2,017)
Transfers
Currency translation
Fair value of plan assets at January 1
Actual return on plan assets
Employer contributions	2,314	1,783
Reimbursement of German benefits
Fair value of plan assets at December 31
Benefit Obligations [Member] \| Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligations at January 1	349,755	330,757
Service cost	8,674	7,702
Interest cost	19,531	18,615
Participant contributions	153	137
Actuarial losses (gains)	37,973	14,441
Benefits paid	(18,931)	(17,249)
Curtailments	(54)	(1,057)
Termination benefits		926
Currency translation	(2,832)	(4,517)
Benefit obligations at December 31	394,269	349,755	330,757
Benefit Obligations [Member] \| Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligations at January 1	32,734	30,014
Service cost	785	763
Interest cost	1,501	1,729
Participant contributions
Actuarial losses (gains)	(2,281)	2,011
Benefits paid	(2,314)	(1,783)
Curtailments
Termination benefits
Currency translation
Benefit obligations at December 31	$ 30,425	$ 32,734	$ 30,014

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit (Credit) Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 8,674	$ 7,702	$ 7,229
Interest cost	19,531	18,615	18,477
Expected return on plan assets	(34,125)	(34,565)	(35,273)
Amortization of transition amounts	4	4	6
Amortization of prior service cost	104	103	153
Recognized net actuarial losses (gains)	793	537	245
Curtailment loss	52	287	97
Termination benefits		926	6,411
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost	(4,967)	(6,391)	(2,655)
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	785	763	719
Interest cost	1,501	1,730	1,836
Expected return on plan assets
Amortization of transition amounts
Amortization of prior service cost	710	840	1,001
Recognized net actuarial losses (gains)	(455)	(555)	(401)
Curtailment loss
Termination benefits			250
Net periodic benefit (credit) cost	$ 2,541	$ 2,778	$ 3,405

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Amounts Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected To Be Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Costs) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Loss recognition	$ 7,020
Prior service cost (credit) recognition	102
Transition obligation recognition	2
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Loss recognition	720
Prior service cost (credit) recognition	$ (455)

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligations And Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, Discount rate	5.00%	5.60%
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, Rate of compensation increase	3.90%	3.70%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Discount rate	5.60%	5.80%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Expected return on plan assets	8.30%	8.30%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Rate of compensation increases	3.70%	3.80%
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, Discount rate	4.80%	5.30%
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, Rate of compensation increase
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Discount rate	5.30%	6.00%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Expected return on plan assets
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, Rate of compensation increases

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Expected Return On Assets For Net Periodic Pension Cost) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	100.00%	100.00%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	60.00%	73.00%
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	29.00%	15.00%
Pooled Investment Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	6.00%	5.00%
Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	3.00%	3.00%
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	2.00%	4.00%

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Summary Of Pension Plan Assets Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis By Fair Value Hierarchy) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	$ 357,967	$ 377,607
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	216,198	274,918
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	102,723	58,619
Pooled Investment Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	19,765	19,338
Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	11,562	10,725
Cash And Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	7,719	14,007
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	258,553	298,143
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] \| Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	216,198	274,918
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	34,636	9,218
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] \| Cash And Cash Equivalents [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	7,719	14,007
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	87,852	68,739
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] \| Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	68,087	49,401
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] \| Pooled Investment Funds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	19,765	19,338
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	11,562	10,725
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] \| Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	$ 11,562	$ 10,725	$ 9,878

Pensions And Other Postretirement Benefits (Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Level 3 Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$ 377,607
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	357,967	$ 377,607
Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	10,725
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	11,562	10,725
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	10,725
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	11,562	10,725
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] \| Insurance Contracts [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	10,725	9,878
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings	(325)	(406)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements	1,162	1,253
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$ 11,562	$ 10,725

- Definition

Assets, usually stocks, bonds, and other investments, that have been segregated and restricted (usually in a trust) to provide benefits, at their fair value as of the measurement date. Plan assets include amounts contributed by the employer (and by employees for a contributory plan) and amounts earned from investing the contributions, less benefits paid. If a plan has liabilities other than for benefits, those non-benefit obligations may be considered as reductions of plan assets.

+ References + Details

Other Income (Schedule Of Other Income) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Other Income [Abstract]
Interest income	$ 1,861	$ 1,979	$ 1,489
Gain on asset dispositions, net	3,328	5,135	4,919
Other, net	192	(1,077)	(548)
Total	$ 5,381	$ 6,037	$ 5,860

Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Leases [Abstract]
Rent expense	$ 12.2	$ 12.8	$ 12.6
Minimum rent commitments in 2012	9.6
Minimum rent commitments in 2013	7.9
Minimum rent commitments in 2014	5.6
Minimum rent commitments in 2015	2.8
Minimum rent commitments in 2016	2.0
Minimum rent commitments, thereafter	$ 1.1

Short-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
Short-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Short-Term Debt [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings with banks, which excludes the current portion of long-term debt		$ 0.2	$ 0.2
Average month-end balance		$ 0.3
Maximum month-end balance	$ 0.6
Weighted average interest rate		12.00%	7.00%

Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Notional amount of open forward contracts	$ 0.7

Derivative Financial Instruments (Balance Sheet Location And Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Associated With Derivative Financial Instruments) (Details) - Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$ 4
Other current liabilities	$ 50

Derivative Financial Instruments (Income Statement Location And Impact Of Derivative Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Currency exchange losses (gains)	$ 1,282	$ 274

- Definition

The amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.

+ References + Details

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2010 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2009 USD ($)	Oct. 13, 2010 USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill				$ 179,900
Transaction and integration costs		$ 6,500
Transaction and integration costs, after tax		4,000
Sales	$ 1,178,608	982,668	$ 915,851
Net income	$ 70,045	39,059	$ 43,337
General Monitors, Inc. [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total acquisition price of General Monitors, Inc.				278,200
Contingent consideration				0
Escrow deposit, amount				$ 38,000
Expiration date of escrow agreement, in years				two
Acquisition price				$ 264,000
Issuance of Senior Notes				264,000
Weighted-average amortization period of identifiable intangible assets acquired, in years	16
Identifiable intangible assets, future amortization expense	$ 3,300
Estimated future amortization expense of identifiable intangible assets, in year one	3,300
Estimated future amortization expense of identifiable intangible assets, in year two	3,300
Estimated future amortization expense of identifiable intangible assets, in year three	3,300
Estimated future amortization expense of identifiable intangible assets, in year four	3,300
Estimated future amortization expense of identifiable intangible assets, in year five	3,300
Sales	86,200	16,300
Net income	16,100	200
One-time increase in cost of sales	2,300	2,500
One-time increase in cost of sales, after tax	1,500	$ 1,500
General Monitors, Inc. [Member] \| North American Segment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	136,700
Step up to fair value of acquired inventory	4,800
General Monitors, Inc. [Member] \| European Segment [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 43,200
General Monitors, Inc. [Member] \| 4.00% Series A Senior Notes [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition price				100,000
Issuance of Senior Notes				$ 100,000
Senior Notes, interest rate				4.00%
Senior Notes, maturity date	Oct. 13, 2021
Senior Notes, number of annual installments	5
Senior Notes, annual installments payable	$ 20,000

Acquisitions (Fair Values Of Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed) (Details) $ in Millions	Oct. 13, 2010 USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current assets (including cash of $18.6 million)	$ 46.8
Property	14.0
Goodwill	179.9
Other noncurrent assets	3.5
Total assets acquired	288.2
Total liabilities assumed	10.0
Net assets acquired	278.2
Cash attributable to current assets	18.6
Trade Name [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	6.0
Acquired Technology [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	11.0
Customer-Related Intangibles [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 27.0

Acquisitions (Schedule Of Pro Forma Financial Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Acquisitions [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 1,173.0	$ 1,032.0	$ 989.0
Net income	$ 71.0	$ 50.0	$ 51.0
Basic earnings per share	$ 1.95	$ 1.39	$ 1.44
Diluted earnings per share	$ 1.92	$ 1.37	$ 1.43

- Definition

The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The pro forma diluted net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

+ References + Details

Fair Value Of Financial Instruments (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)
Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Abstract]
Carrying amount of fixed rate long-term debt	$ 168.0
Fair value of long-term debt	$ 177.2

Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended			36 Months Ended
Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2010 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2009 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2008 USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of lawsuits	2,321	1,900	2,480	2,321	2,550
Minimum number of insurance carriers	20
Insurance receivables	$ 112.1	$ 89.0	$ 91.7	$ 112.1	$ 60.6
Single Incident [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Reserves for product liability claims	4.7	5.2		4.7
Total product liability and defense costs, 3 years ended	1.5	0.2	0.5
Cumulative Trauma [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Total product liability and defense costs, 3 years ended				$ 102.7
Uninsured Cumulative Trauma [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Uninsured product liability losses	$ 1.1	$ 0.2	$ 1.7

Contingencies (Summary Of Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Claims Activity) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Contingencies [Abstract]
Open claims, January 1	1,900	2,480	2,550
New claims	479	260	220
Settled and dismissed claims	(58)	(840)	(290)
Open claims, December 31	2,321	1,900	2,480

Contingencies (Summary Of Insurance Receivable Balances And Activity Related To Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Losses) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Contingencies [Abstract]
Balance January 1	$ 89.0	$ 91.7	$ 60.6
Additions	35.6	30.9	33.1
Collections and settlements	(12.5)	(33.6)	(2.0)
Balance December 31	$ 112.1	$ 89.0	$ 91.7

Quarterly Financial Information (Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 303,754	$ 298,241	$ 294,733	$ 276,499	$ 285,005	$ 242,019	$ 237,173	$ 212,434	$ 1,173,227	$ 976,631	$ 909,991
Gross profit	119,942	120,888	119,009	110,397	106,741	90,679	90,226	82,453	470,236	370,099
Net income attributable to Mine Safety Appliances Company	$ 16,979	$ 19,972	$ 19,592	$ 13,309	$ 11,768	$ 9,603	$ 11,827	$ 4,906	$ 69,852	$ 38,104	$ 43,295
Basic	$ 0.46	$ 0.54	$ 0.53	$ 0.36	$ 0.33	$ 0.27	$ 0.33	$ 0.14	$ 1.91	$ 1.06	$ 1.21
Diluted	$ 0.46	$ 0.54	$ 0.53	$ 0.36	$ 0.32	$ 0.26	$ 0.32	$ 0.14	$ 1.87	$ 1.05	$ 1.21

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 128
-Paragraph 36, 37, 38
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Article 5
-Section 03
-Paragraph 20

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Article 7
-Paragraph 18

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 21
-Article 9

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 225
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.21)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6880815&loc=d3e20235-122688

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6920599&loc=d3e1252-109256

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 55
-Paragraph 52
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6945512&loc=d3e4984-109258

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04.23)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879574&loc=d3e536633-122882

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.19)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 07-4
-Paragraph 4
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

+ Details

- Definition

The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period.

+ References + Details

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF)
-Number 87-21
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 38
-Subparagraph a
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 130
-Paragraph 10, 15
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 95
-Paragraph 28, 29, 30
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Article 5
-Section 03
-Paragraph 19

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher SEC
-Name Regulation S-X (SX)
-Number 210
-Section 04
-Paragraph 20
-Article 9

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 230
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 28
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6943989&loc=d3e3602-108585

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Net Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6518256

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Glossary Other Comprehensive Income
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6519514

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 260
-SubTopic 10
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 225
-SubTopic 10
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.18)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6880815&loc=d3e20235-122688

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.19)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Section 45
-Paragraph 6
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6920043&loc=d3e565-108580

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 225
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.22)
-URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913

Reference 15: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph 38
-Subparagraph d
-LegacyDoc This reference is SUPERSEDED by the Accounting Standards Codification effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. This reference is included to help users transition from the previous accounting hierarchy and will be removed from future versions of this taxonomy.

Reference 16: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher AICPA
-Name Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB)
-Number 51
-Paragraph A7
-Appendix A

+ Details

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts (Schedule Of Valuation And Qualifying Accounts) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Allowance For Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 9,391	$ 6,866	$ 6,050
Charged to costs and expenses	1,148	3,294	2,602
Deductions from reserves	3,496	769	1,786
Balance at end of year	7,043	9,391	6,866
Income Tax Valuation Allowance [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	4,323	3,174	2,973
Charged to costs and expenses		1,149	201
Deductions from reserves	1,546
Balance at end of year	$ 2,777	$ 4,323	$ 3,174