Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)

v2.4.0.6
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2012
Segment
Aug. 31, 2011
Aug. 31, 2010
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Number of reportable segments 4    
Portion of inventory determined using last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method 19.00% 18.00%  
Inventory LIFO reserve $ 6.6 $ 5.5  
Accounts Receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts 4.4 7.2  
Research and development costs 22.5 17.7 14.5
Foreign exchange transaction (gains)/losses $ 3.6 $ 2.7 $ 1.5
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 10 years    
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 40 years    
Machinery and equipment | Minimum
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 2 years    
Machinery and equipment | Maximum
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 15 years