Annual report pursuant to Section 13 and 15(d)

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)

v2.4.0.8
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
12 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2014
Segment
Aug. 31, 2013
Aug. 31, 2012
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Number of reportable segments 3    
Portion of inventory determined using last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method 21.00% 21.00%  
Inventory LIFO reserve $ 5.7 $ 5.8  
Accounts Receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts 6.0 3.7  
Research and development costs 20.0 21.0 17.1
Foreign exchange transaction (gains)/losses $ 4.2 $ 2.7 $ 3.9
Minimum | Buildings and improvements
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 10 years    
Minimum | Machinery and equipment
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 2 years    
Maximum | Buildings and improvements
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 40 years    
Maximum | Machinery and equipment
     
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]      
Property, plant and equipment useful life 15 years