Danaher (DHR) 10-Q 2011 Q1 Quarterly report

Exhibit 12.1

Danaher Corporation

Statement Regarding Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

(In Thousands, except ratio data)

											Three Months Ended
	2006		2007		2008		2009		2010		April 1, 2011
Fixed Charges
Gross Interest Expense		77,375		107,702		126,470		119,776		118,294		31,406
Interest Element of Rental Expense		12,369		14,804		10,763		13,135		15,162		3,790
Interest on FIN 48 liabilities		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total Fixed Charges	$	89,744	$	122,506	$	137,233	$	132,911	$	133,456	$	35,196
Earnings Available for Fixed Charges:
Earnings from Continuing Operations before income taxes		1,380,150		1,583,187		1,670,991		1,366,842		2,252,739		547,503
Add fixed charges		89,744		122,506		137,233		132,911		133,456		35,196
Interest on FIN 48 liabilities		—		—		—		—		—		—
Total Earnings Available for Fixed Charges	$	1,469,894	$	1,705,693	$	1,808,224	$	1,499,753	$	2,386,195	$	582,699
Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges		16.4		13.9		13.2		11.3		17.9		16.6

NOTE: These Ratios include Danaher Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries. The ratio of earnings to fixed charges was computed by dividing earnings by fixed charges for the periods indicated, where “earnings” consist of (1) earnings from continuing operations (excluding earnings from 50% owned affiliates) before income taxes; plus (2) fixed charges, and “fixed charges” consist of (A) interest, whether expensed or capitalized, on all indebtedness, (B) amortization of premiums, discounts and capitalized expenses related to indebtedness, and (C) an interest component representing the estimated portion of rental expense that management believes is attributable to interest. Interest on FIN 48 liabilities is included in the tax provision in the Company’s Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings and is excluded from the computation of fixed charges.