MSA Safety (MSA) 10-K 28 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 17, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	MSA SAFETY INCORPORATED
Entity Central Index Key	66,570
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	MSA
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		37,759,187
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 1.7

Consolidated Statement of Incom

Consolidated Statement of Income - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 1,149,530,000	$ 1,130,783,000	$ 1,133,885,000
Cost of products sold	625,887,000	629,680,000	618,536,000
Gross profit	523,643,000	501,103,000	515,349,000
Selling, general and administrative
Selling, general and administrative	306,144,000	315,270,000	322,797,000
Research and development	46,847,000	48,630,000	48,247,000
Restructuring charges (Note 2)	5,694,000	12,258,000	8,515,000
Currency exchange losses, net	766,000	2,204,000	1,509,000
Operating income	164,192,000	122,741,000	134,281,000
Interest expense	16,411,000	10,854,000	9,851,000
Other (income) loss, net (Note 15)	(4,130,000)	861,000	(2,765,000)
Total other expense, net	12,281,000	11,715,000	7,086,000
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	151,911,000	111,026,000	127,195,000
Provision for income taxes (Note 9)	57,804,000	44,407,000	41,044,000
Net income (loss), including portion attributable to noncontrolling interest
Income from continuing operations	94,107,000	66,619,000	86,151,000
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (Note 20)	(245,000)	1,325,000	1,776,000
Net income	93,862,000	67,944,000	87,927,000
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(1,926,000)	2,863,000	579,000
Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated	91,936,000	70,807,000	88,506,000
Amounts attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated common shareholders:
Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated	92,691,000	69,590,000	87,447,000
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (Note 20)	$ (755,000)	$ 1,217,000	$ 1,059,000
Basic
Income from continuing operations	$ 2.47	$ 1.86	$ 2.34
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (dollars per share)	(0.02)	0.03	0.03
Net income (dollars per share)	2.45	1.89	2.37
Diluted
Income from continuing operations	2.44	1.84	2.30
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (dollars per share)	(0.02)	0.03	0.03
Net income (dollars per share)	$ 2.42	$ 1.87	$ 2.33
Dividends per common share (dollars per share)	$ 1.31	$ 1.27	$ 1.23

Consolidated Statement of Compr

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 93,862	$ 67,944	$ 87,927
Foreign currency translation adjustments (Note 5)	(24,986)	(49,067)	(40,568)
Pension and post-retirement plan actuarial gains (losses), net of tax (Note 5)	1,321	6,181	(48,490)
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) into net income (Note 5)	3,270	0	0
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(20,395)	(42,886)	(89,058)
Comprehensive income (loss)	73,467	25,058	(1,131)
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,578)	4,280	1,176
Comprehensive income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated	$ 69,889	$ 29,338	$ 45

Consolidated Balance Sheet

Consolidated Balance Sheet - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 113,759	$ 105,925
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,610 and $8,189	209,514	232,862
Inventories (Note 3)	103,066	125,849
Prepaid income taxes	16,378	8,745
Notes receivable, insurance companies (Note 19)	4,180	6,746
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	25,909	24,485
Total current assets	472,806	504,612
Property, plant, and equipment, net (Note 4)	148,678	155,839
Prepaid pension cost (Note 14)	62,916	62,072
Deferred tax assets (Note 9)	23,240	26,455
Goodwill (Note 12)	333,276	340,338
Intangible assets, net (Note 12)	77,015	90,068
Notes receivable, insurance companies, noncurrent (Note 19)	63,147	1,944
Insurance receivable (Note 19) and other noncurrent assets	172,842	241,535
Total assets	1,353,920	1,422,863
Current Liabilities
Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt (Note 11)	26,666	6,650
Accounts payable	62,734	68,206
Employees’ compensation	39,880	37,642
Insurance and product liability (Note 19)	19,438	57,718
Taxes on income (Note 9)	3,889	11,658
Other current liabilities	68,803	70,013
Total current liabilities	221,410	251,887
Long-term debt, net (Note 11)	363,836	458,022
Pensions and other employee benefits (Note 14)	157,927	156,160
Deferred tax liabilities (Note 9)	34,044	24,872
Other noncurrent liabilities (Note 19)	15,491	14,794
Total liabilities	792,708	905,735
Commitments and contingencies (Note 19)
Mine Safety Appliances Company shareholders' equity:
Preferred stock, 4 1/2% cumulative, $50 par value (Note 6)	3,569	3,569
Common stock, no par value (180,000,000 shares authorized; 62,081,391 shares issued; 37,736,578 and 37,372,474 shares outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively)	172,681	157,643
Treasury shares, at cost (Note 6)	(289,254)	(295,070)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(230,246)	(208,199)
Retained earnings	901,415	858,553
Total MSA Safety Incorporated shareholders’ equity	558,165	516,496
Noncontrolling interests	3,047	632
Total shareholders’ equity	561,212	517,128
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$ 1,353,920	$ 1,422,863

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Par

Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Trade receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 5,610	$ 8,189
Percentage of cumulative preferred stock	4.50%	4.50%
Preferred stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 50	$ 50
Common stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	180,000,000	180,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	62,081,391	62,081,391
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	37,736,578	37,372,474

Consolidated Statement of Cash

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Activities
Net income	$ 93,862	$ 67,944	$ 87,927
Depreciation and amortization	35,273	31,684	29,921
Pension expense (Note 14)	6,332	11,955	4,836
Gain on asset dispositions, net	(1,453)	(1,745)	(2,094)
Stock-based compensation (Note 10)	9,211	7,599	9,053
Asset Impairment Charges (Note 15)	0	4,946	0
Deferred income tax provision (Note 9)	14,393	(1,699)	(5,388)
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities	12,546	(41,801)	(49,405)
Currency exchange losses, net	785	2,471	1,393
Excess tax benefit related to stock plans (Note 6)	(478)	(596)	(2,573)
Pension contributions (Note 14)	(3,878)	(4,058)	(4,077)
Other, net	0	(2,786)	(5,168)
Operating cash flow before changes in certain working capital items	166,593	73,914	64,425
Change in trade receivables	13,239	(21,959)	(23,480)
Change in inventories	14,394	(9,403)	(600)
Change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(46,479)	20,286	56,988
Change in income taxes receivable, prepaid expenses and other current assets	(12,853)	(7,584)	9,698
Changes in certain working capital items	(31,699)	(18,660)	42,606
Cash Flow From Operating Activities	134,894	55,254	107,031
Investing Activities
Capital expenditures	(25,523)	(36,241)	(33,583)
Property disposals	18,214	8,022	3,385
Acquisition, net of cash acquired (Note 13)	(18,449)	(180,271)	0
Other investing	0	0	(500)
Cash Flow (Used In) Investing Activities	(25,758)	(208,490)	(30,698)
Financing Activities
Proceeds from (payments on) short-term debt, net (Note 11)	0	5	(796)
Payments on long-term debt (Note 11)	(443,572)	(291,525)	(421,667)
Proceeds from long-term debt (Note 11)	382,664	510,456	406,000
Restricted cash	1,505	264	86
Cash dividends paid	(49,074)	(47,380)	(45,586)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(1,008)	0	0
Company stock purchases (Note 6)	(1,881)	(9,885)	(5,654)
Exercise of stock options (Note 6)	12,476	1,930	6,926
Employee stock purchase plan (Note 6)	571	488	0
Excess tax benefit related to stock plans (Note 6)	478	596	2,573
Cash Flow (Used In) From Financing Activities	(97,841)	164,949	(58,118)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(3,461)	(11,786)	(8,482)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	7,834	(73)	9,733
Beginning cash and cash equivalents	105,925	105,998	96,265
Ending cash and cash equivalents	113,759	105,925	105,998
Supplemental cash flow information:
Interest payments	15,861	10,818	9,663
Income tax payments	$ 57,551	$ 50,001	$ 31,679

Consolidated Statement of Chang

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Retained Earnings and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 517,128
Net income	93,862	$ 67,944	$ 87,927
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, net of tax	1,321	6,181	(48,490)
Loss (gain) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,578)	4,280	1,176
Balance at end of period	561,212	517,128
Retained Earnings
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	858,553	835,126	792,206
Net income	93,862	67,944	87,927
Foreign currency translation adjustments	0	0	0
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, net of tax	0	0	0
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) into net income	0
Loss (gain) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(1,926)	2,863	579
Common dividends	(49,032)	(47,338)	(45,544)
Preferred dividends	(42)	(42)	(42)
Balance at end of period	901,415	858,553	835,126
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	(208,199)	(166,730)	(78,269)
Net income	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(24,986)	(49,067)	(40,568)
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, net of tax	1,321	6,181	(48,490)
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) into net income	3,270
Loss (gain) attributable to noncontrolling interests	(1,652)	1,417	597
Common dividends	0	0	0
Preferred dividends	0	0	0
Balance at end of period	$ (230,246)	$ (208,199)	$ (166,730)

Consolidated Statement of Chan8

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Retained Earnings and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss)
Pension and post-retirement plan adjustments, tax	$ 1,146	$ 1,160	$ 26,840

Significant Accounting Policies

Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation— The Consolidated Financial Statements of MSA Safety Incorporated ("MSA" or "the Company") are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and require management to make certain judgments, estimates, and assumptions. These may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements. They also may affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates upon subsequent resolution of identified matters. Certain segment results in previously issued consolidated financial statements were recast to conform to the current period presentation. Refer to Note 7 for further information regarding MSA's segment allocation methodology. Principles of Consolidation— The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all subsidiaries. Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. Noncontrolling Interests— Noncontrolling interests reflect noncontrolling shareholders’ investments in certain consolidated subsidiaries and their proportionate share of the income and accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 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. Restricted Cash— Restricted cash, which is designated for use other than current operations, is included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Restricted cash balances were $1.2 million and $2.4 million at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. These balances were used to support letter of credit balances. Inventories— Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The majority of 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. It is the Company’s general policy to write-down any inventory that is identified as obsolete and any inventory that has aged or has not moved in more than twenty-four months . 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 other income and the cost and related depreciation are removed from the accounts. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $27.0 million , $26.9 million and $26.2 million , respectively. Properties, plants, and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets is determined by comparing the estimated undiscounted net cash flows of the operations related to the assets to their carrying amount. An impairment loss would be recognized when the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the estimated undiscounted net cash flows. The amount of the impairment loss to be recorded is calculated as the excess of the carrying value of the assets over their fair value, with fair value determined using the best information available, which generally is a discounted cash flow model. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets— Intangible assets with a finite useful life are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. Indefinite lived intangible assets are assessed for possible impairment annually or whenever circumstances change such that the recorded value of the asset may not be recoverable. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to impairment assessments. In the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist or if a decision is made to sell a business, we evaluate goodwill for impairment. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include a decline in expected cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, unanticipated competition, slower growth rates, or negative developments in equity and credit markets, among others. All goodwill is assigned to and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. For goodwill impairment testing purposes, we consider our operating segments to be our reporting units. The evaluation of impairment involves using either a qualitative or quantitative approach as outlined in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 350. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, including goodwill. Factors considered as part of the qualitative assessment include entity-specific industry, market and general economic conditions. In 2016, we elected to bypass the qualitative evaluation for all of our reporting units and performed a two-step quantitative test at October 1, 2016. Step 1 of the quantitative testing involves comparing the estimated fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. We estimate reporting unit fair value using a weighted average of fair values determined by discounted cash flow (DCF) and market approach methodologies, as we believe both are equally important indicators of fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the application of the DCF model, including sales volumes and prices, costs to produce, tax rates, capital spending, discount rates, and working capital changes. Cash flow forecasts are generally based on approved business unit operating plans for the early years and historical relationships in later years. The betas used in calculating the individual reporting units’ weighted average cost of capital (WACC) rate are estimated for each reporting unit based on peer data. The market approach methodology measures value through an analysis of peer companies. The analysis entails measuring the multiples of EBITDA at which peer companies are trading. In the event the estimated fair value of a reporting unit per the weighted average of the DCF and market approach models is less than the carrying value, Step 2 of the analysis would be required. The additional analysis would compare the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill, which may involve the use of valuation specialist. The implied fair value of goodwill is the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. If the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment loss equal to such excess would be recognized, which could significantly and adversely impact reported consolidated results of operations and shareholders’ equity. There has been no impairment of our goodwill as of December 31, 2016 , 2015 or 2014 . 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 distributor'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. 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 consolidated statements of income as currency exchange (income) loss in the current period. Commitments and Contingencies— For asserted claims and assessments, liabilities are recorded when an unfavorable outcome of a matter is deemed to be probable and the loss is reasonably estimable. Management determines the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome based on many factors such as the nature of the matter, available defenses and case strategy, progress of the matter, views and opinions of legal counsel and other advisors, applicability and success of appeals processes, and the outcome of similar historical matters, among others. Once an unfavorable outcome is deemed probable, management weighs the probability of estimated losses, and the most reasonable loss estimate is recorded. If an unfavorable outcome of a matter is deemed to be reasonably possible, then the matter is disclosed and no liability is recorded. With respect to unasserted claims or assessments, management must first determine that the probability that an assertion will be made is likely, then, a determination as to the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to reasonably estimate the potential loss is made. Legal matters are reviewed on a continuous basis to determine if there has been a change in management’s judgment regarding the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or the estimate of a potential loss. Please refer to Note 19 Contingencies for further details on product liability related matters. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held For Sale— For those businesses where management has committed to a plan to divest, each business is valued at the lower of its carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell. If the carrying amount of the business exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. Fair value is estimated using accepted valuation techniques such as a discounted cash flow model, valuations performed by third parties, earnings multiples, or indicative bids, when available. A number of significant estimates and assumptions are involved in the application of these techniques, including the forecasting of markets and market share, sales volumes and prices, costs and expenses, and multiple other factors. Management considers historical experience and all available information at the time the estimates are made; however, the fair value that is ultimately realized upon the divestiture of a business may differ from the estimated fair value reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Depreciation and amortization expense is not recorded on assets of a business to be divested once they are classified as held for sale. For businesses classified as discontinued operations, the results of operations are reclassified from their historical presentation to discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Income, for all periods presented. The gains or losses associated with these divested businesses are recorded in discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Additionally, segment information does not include the operating results of businesses classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Management does not expect any continuing involvement with these businesses following their divestiture, and these businesses are expected to be disposed of within one year. Concentration of credit and business risks - We are exposed to credit risk in the event of nonpayment by customers, principally in the oil and gas, fire service, construction, utilities, chemicals and mining industries. Changes in these industries may significantly affect our financial performance and management's estimates. We mitigate our exposure to credit risk by performing ongoing credit evaluations and, when deemed necessary, requiring letters of credit, credit insurance, prepayments, guarantees or other collateral. No individual customer represented more than 10% of our sales. Reclassifications - Certain reclassifications of prior years' data have been made to conform to the current year presentation. Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards— In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of an Entity . This ASU amends the definition of a discontinued operation to include a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2015. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we were to divest of a component that meets the definition of discontinued operations. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue with Contracts from Customers . This ASU establishes a single revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers based on recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services, eliminates industry specific requirements, and expands disclosure requirements. This ASU is required to be adopted beginning January 1, 2018. Our revenue streams include agreements with distributors, agreements with end users and agreements with governmental entities. The Company continues to evaluate the impact that the adoption of this ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements, including the timing of revenue recognition associated with certain customized products. We have conducted a risk assessment and have worked with outside consultants to develop a transition plan that will enable us to meet the implementation requirement. We are currently in the process of reviewing and analyzing contracts. We anticipate using the modified retrospective method of adoption and having enhanced disclosures surrounding revenue recognition. In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period . This ASU clarifies the accounting treatment for share based payment awards that contain performance targets. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern . This ASU clarifies management's responsibility to evaluate whether there is a substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern and provides guidance for related footnote disclosures. This ASU is effective for the annual period ending December 31, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, Income Statement - Extraordinary and Unusual Items . This ASU eliminates the requirement to separately present and disclose extraordinary and unusual items in the financial statements. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis . This ASU changes the analysis that an entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs . This ASU simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs and requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-15, Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs . This ASU simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs for line of credit arrangements. These ASUs were adopted on January 1, 2016. The Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2015 has been adjusted to apply the change in accounting principle retrospectively, which resulted in a decrease in Prepaid expenses and other current assets of $0.4 million , a decrease in Other noncurrent assets of $1.5 million , a decrease in the current portion of long-term debt, net of $17 thousand , and a decrease in long-term debt of $1.9 million as of December 31, 2015. There was no impact to the Statements of Consolidated Income as a result of the change in accounting principle. Prior year balances in Note 11 were also adjusted to conform with current year presentation. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-04, Retirement Benefits - Practical Expedient for the Measurement Date of an Employer's Defined Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets. This ASU allows entities with a fiscal year end that does not coincide with a month end to use the closest month end for measurement purposes. This ASU also allows entities that have a significant event in an interim period that calls for a remeasurement of defined benefit plan assets and obligations to use the month end date that is closest to the date of the significant event. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Goodwill and Other Internal Use Software - Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement . This ASU clarifies when entities should account for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement as a software license or service contract. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016 and was implemented on a prospective basis. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. This ASU requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. This ASU applies to inventory measured using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost methods only. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2017. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-12, Plan Accounting: Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Topic 960), Defined Contribution Pension Plans (Topic 962), Health and Welfare Benefit Plans (Topic 965) . This ASU simplifies complexities within employee benefit plan accounting including Fully Benefit-Responsive Investment Contracts, Plan Investment Disclosures, and the Measurement Date Practical Expedient. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments . This ASU simplifies the accounting for adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination. The amendments in this Update eliminate the requirement to retrospectively account for those adjustments. MSA elected to early adopt this standard for the period ended December 31, 2015. The adoption of this ASU could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements to the extent that measurement-period adjustments for business combinations are identified. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases . This ASU requires lessees to record a right of use asset and a liability for virtually all leases. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2019. The Company continues to evaluate the impact that the adoption of this ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting . This ASU simplifies the accounting for many aspects associated with share-based payment accounting including income taxes and the use of forfeiture rates. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses. This ASU introduces an approach based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments including loans, held-to-maturity debt securities, loan commitments, financial guarantees and net investments in leases as well as reinsurance and trade receivables. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2020. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements and expects that adoption will result in increased disclosure. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Classification of Certain Cash Payments and Cash Receipts. This ASU clarifies how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Intra-entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory . This ASU states that an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 to be adopted on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash . This ASU requires that amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents are included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 to be adopted on a retrospective basis and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations - Clarifying the Definition of a Business . This ASU provides further guidance for identifying whether a set of assets and activities is a business by providing a screen outlining that when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired (or disposed of) is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 and will be applied prospectively. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we have an acquisition or disposal that falls within this screen. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment . This ASU simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairments under Step 2 by eliminating the requirement to perform procedures to determine the fair value of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including previously unrecognized assets and liabilities, in order to determine the fair value of the goodwill and any impairment charge to be recognized. Under this ASU, the impairment charge to be recognized should be the amount by which the reporting unit's carrying value exceeds the reporting unit's fair value as calculated under Step 1 provided that the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. This ASU is effective beginning in 2019 for public entities and early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we determine that goodwill for any of our reporting units is impaired.

Restructuring and Other Charges

Restructuring and Other Charges	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Other Charges	Restructuring Charges During the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we recorded restructuring charges, net of adjustments, of $5.7 million , $12.3 million , and $8.5 million , respectively. These charges were primarily related to reorganization activities. In September 2016, certain employees in the Americas segment were offered a voluntary retirement incentive package (“VRIP”). The election window for participation closed on October 17, 2016. The employees were required to render service through January 31, 2017 to receive the VRIP and had until February 6, 2017 to revoke their election. None of the 83 employees who accepted the VRIP revoked their election to retire under the terms of the plan. Non-cash special termination benefit expense of approximately $11.5 million is expected to be incurred in the first quarter of 2017 related to these elections. All benefits will be paid from our over funded North America pension plan. During the year ended December 31, 2016 , we recorded restructuring charges, net of adjustments, of $5.7 million . International segment charges of $5.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 were related to severance costs for staff reductions associated with ongoing initiatives to right size our operations in Europe and Japan. Americas segment restructuring charges of $1.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 related primarily to severance from staff reductions in Brazil and North America. Corporate segment charges were $0.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2016 . Favorable adjustments for changes in estimates on employee restructuring reserves of $1.6 million were recorded during the year ended December 31, 2016 . Headcount was reduced by 179 in 2016. Headcount was reduced by 103 in the Americas segment, 75 in the International segment, and 1 in the Corporate segment. For the year ended December 31, 2015 , International segment charges of $7.4 million were primarily related to staff reductions in Europe, Australia, Japan, and China and a one-time benefit for employees impacted by our European Principal Operating Company. Americas charges of $3.3 million and Corporate segment charges of $1.6 million were primarily related to staff reductions in North America. Headcount was reduced by 216 in 2015. Headcount was reduced by 70 in the Americas segment, 134 in the International segment, and 12 in the Corporate segment. For the year ended December 31, 2014 , International segment charges of $8.0 million were primarily related to severance from staff reductions in Europe, South Africa, and Australia as the Company continued to focus manufacturing efforts in line with our core products and to respond to changing economic conditions. Activity and reserve balances for restructuring charges by segment were as follows: (in millions) Americas International Corporate Total Reserve balances at January 1, 2014 $ — $ 1.7 $ — $ 1.7 Restructuring charges 0.5 8.0 — 8.5 Asset disposals — (2.1 ) — (2.1 ) Cash payments (0.3 ) (5.0 ) — (5.3 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2014 $ 0.2 $ 2.6 $ — $ 2.8 Restructuring charges 3.3 7.4 1.6 12.3 Cash payments (1.9 ) (4.6 ) (0.5 ) (7.0 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2015 $ 1.6 $ 5.4 $ 1.1 $ 8.1 Restructuring charges 1.8 5.3 0.2 7.3 Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves (0.5 ) (0.6 ) (0.5 ) (1.6 ) Cash payments (2.0 ) (7.3 ) (0.5 ) (9.8 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2016 $ 0.9 $ 2.8 $ 0.3 $ 4.0

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories The following table sets forth the components of inventory: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Finished products $ 54,348 $ 74,929 Work in process 6,542 8,979 Raw materials and supplies 84,069 85,643 Inventories at current cost 144,959 169,551 Less: LIFO valuation (41,893 ) (43,702 ) Total inventories $ 103,066 $ 125,849 Inventories stated on the LIFO basis represent 25% and 23% of total inventories at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Reductions in certain inventory quantities during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 resulted in liquidations of LIFO inventories carried at lower costs prevailing in prior years. The effect of LIFO liquidations during 2016 reduced cost of sales by $0.3 million and increased net income by $0.2 million . The effect of LIFO liquidations during 2015 reduced cost of sales by $1.4 million and increased net income by $0.9 million .

Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, Plant, and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant, and Equipment	Property, Plant, and Equipment The following table sets forth the components of property, plant and equipment: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Land $ 2,684 $ 2,929 Buildings 111,762 114,324 Machinery and equipment 361,010 345,064 Construction in progress 10,714 12,451 Total 486,170 474,768 Less accumulated depreciation (337,492 ) (318,929 ) Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 148,678 $ 155,839

Reclassifications Out of Accumu

Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss MSA Safety Incorporated Noncontrolling Interests (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Pension and other post-retirement benefits Balance at beginning of period $ (119,389 ) $ (125,570 ) $ (77,080 ) $ — $ — $ — Unrecognized net actuarial losses (12,473 ) (8,002 ) (84,495 ) — — — Unrecognized prior service credit (cost) 1,092 (604 ) 302 — — — Tax benefit 5,033 4,173 29,832 — — — Total other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax (6,348 ) (4,433 ) (54,361 ) — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss: Amortization of prior service cost (a) (427 ) (268 ) (251 ) — — — Recognized net actuarial losses (a) 11,989 16,215 9,114 — — — Tax benefit (3,893 ) (5,333 ) (2,992 ) — — — Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax 7,669 10,614 5,871 — — — Total other comprehensive income (loss) 1,321 6,181 (48,490 ) Balance at end of period $ (118,068 ) $ (119,389 ) $ (125,570 ) $ — $ — $ — Foreign currency translation Balance at beginning of period $ (88,810 ) $ (41,160 ) $ (1,189 ) $ (3,616 ) $ (2,199 ) $ (1,602 ) Reclassification into net income 2,500 (b) — — 770 (c) — — Foreign currency translation adjustments (25,868 ) (47,650 ) (39,971 ) 882 (1,417 ) (597 ) Balance at end of period $ (112,178 ) $ (88,810 ) $ (41,160 ) $ (1,964 ) $ (3,616 ) $ (2,199 ) (a) Included in the computation of net periodic pension and other post-retirement benefit costs (see Note 14 - Pensions and Other Post-Retirement Benefits). (b) Of the $2.5 million reclassified into net income, $3.4 million is included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (see Note 20 - Discontinued Operations) on the Consolidated Statement of Income offset by a gain of $0.9 million included in Currency exchange losses, net. (c) Included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (See Note 20 - Discontinued Operations) and Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests on the Consolidated Statement of Income.

Capital Stock

Capital Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure Capital Stock Additional Information [Abstract]
Capital Stock	Capital Stock Preferred Stock - The Company has authorized 100,000 shares of $50 par value 4.5% cumulative preferred nonvoting stock which is callable at $52.50 . There are 71,340 shares issued and 52,878 shares held in treasury at December 31, 2016 . There were 33 shares of preferred stock repurchased and subsequently canceled during 2015. The Treasury shares at cost line of the Consolidated Balance Sheet includes $1.8 million related to preferred stock. There were no treasury purchases of preferred stock during the years ended December 31, 2016 or 2014. The Company has also authorized 1,000,000 shares of $10 par value second cumulative preferred voting stock. No shares have been issued as of December 31, 2016 or 2015. Common Stock - The Company has authorized 180,000,000 shares of no par value common stock. There were 37,736,578 and 37,372,474 shares outstanding at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. 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, 2014 62,081,391 (303,668 ) (24,575,624 ) $ 132,055 $ (1,585 ) $ (279,772 ) Restricted stock awards — 72,291 13,936 (538 ) 377 161 Restricted stock expense — — — 4,372 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (4,078 ) (346 ) — — Stock options exercised — 150,962 39,781 5,678 788 460 Stock option expense — — — 2,355 — — Performance stock issued — 80,415 — (420 ) 420 — Performance stock expense — — — 2,705 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (33 ) — — Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 2,573 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (107,096 ) — — (5,654 ) Balances December 31, 2014 62,081,391 — (24,633,081 ) $ 148,401 $ — $ (284,805 ) Restricted stock awards — — 34,624 (404 ) — 404 Restricted stock expense — — — 3,461 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (18,468 ) (426 ) — — Stock options exercised — — 52,708 1,714 — 216 Stock option expense — — — 2,572 — — Stock option forfeitures — — — (118 ) — — Performance stock issued — — 52,839 (616 ) — 616 Performance stock expense — — — 2,265 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (155 ) — — Employee stock purchase plan — — 11,517 352 — 136 Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 597 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (59,056 ) — — (2,781 ) Share repurchase program — — (150,000 ) — — (7,104 ) Balances December 31, 2015 62,081,391 — (24,708,917 ) $ 157,643 $ — $ (293,318 ) Restricted stock awards — — 29,836 (355 ) — 355 Restricted stock expense — — — 3,604 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (2,800 ) (148 ) — — Stock options exercised — — 336,904 5,617 — 6,859 Stock option expense — — — 2,484 — — Stock option forfeitures — — — (25 ) — — Performance stock issued — — 31,093 (371 ) — 371 Performance stock expense — — — 3,324 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (28 ) — — Employee stock purchase plan — — 9,500 458 — 113 Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 478 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (40,429 ) — — (1,881 ) Balances December 31, 2016 62,081,391 — (24,344,813 ) $ 172,681 $ — $ (287,501 ) 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. The Company began issuing Treasury Shares for all Board of Director share based benefit plans in April 2014. The Company subsequently began issuing Treasury Shares for all share based benefit plans when the stock compensation trust was depleted in September 2014. Shares are issued from Treasury at the average Treasury Share cost on the date of the transaction. On May 12, 2015, the Board of Directors adopted a new stock repurchase program replacing the existing program. The new program authorizes up to $100 million to repurchase MSA common stock in the open market and in private transactions. The share purchase program has no expiration date. The maximum shares that may be purchased is calculated based on the dollars remaining under the program and the respective month-end closing share price. We repurchased 150,000 shares during 2015. There were no shares repurchased during 2016. We do not have any other share purchase programs.

Segment Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information We are organized into six 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: Americas, International, and Corporate. The Americas and International segments were established on January 1, 2016. The Americas segment is comprised of our operations in North America and Latin America geographies. The International segment is comprised of our operations in all geographies outside of the Americas. Certain global expenses are now allocated to each segment in a manner consistent with where the benefits from the expenses are derived. The 2015 and 2014 segment results have been recast to conform with current period presentation. The Company's sales are allocated to each country based primarily on the destination of the end-customer. Adjusted operating income (loss) and adjusted operating margin are the measures used by the chief operating decision maker to evaluate segment performance and allocate resources. Adjusted operating income (loss) is defined as operating income from continuing operations excluding restructuring charges and currency exchange gains (losses). Adjusted operating margin is defined as adjusted operating income (loss) divided by segment sales to external customers. Adjusted operating income (loss) and adjusted operating margin are not recognized terms under GAAP and therefore do not purport to be alternatives to operating income or operating margin from continuing operations as a measure of operating performance. Further, the Company's measure of adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. Adjusted operating income on a consolidated basis is presented in the following table to reconcile the segment operating performance measure to operating income as presented on the Consolidated Statement of Income. The accounting principles applied at the operating segment level in determining operating income (loss) are generally the same as those applied at the consolidated financial statement level. Sales and transfers between operating segments are accounted for at market-based transaction prices and are eliminated in consolidation. Reportable segment information is presented in the following table: (In thousands) Americas International Corporate Reconciling Items (1) Consolidated Totals 2016 Sales to external customers $ 678,433 $ 471,097 $ — $ — $ 1,149,530 Intercompany sales 113,273 275,640 — (388,913 ) — Operating income 164,192 Restructuring and other charges 5,694 Currency exchange losses, net 766 Adjusted operating income (loss) 162,788 46,491 (38,627 ) — 170,652 Adjusted operating margin % 24.0 % 9.9 % Interest income 1,914 903 10 — 2,827 Interest expense — — 16,411 — 16,411 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 21,046 13,767 — — 34,813 Pension (income) expense (544 ) 6,876 — — 6,332 Income tax provision 37,838 12,830 8,778 (1,642 ) 57,804 Total Assets 836,243 505,278 10,903 1,496 1,353,920 Capital expenditures 16,306 9,217 — — 25,523 Net property 95,904 52,773 1 — 148,678 2015 Sales to external customers $ 704,754 $ 426,029 $ — $ — $ 1,130,783 Intercompany sales 134,185 225,358 — (359,543 ) — Operating income 122,741 Restructuring and other charges 12,258 Currency exchange losses, net 2,204 Adjusted operating income (loss) 141,971 33,501 (38,269 ) — 137,203 Adjusted operating margin % 20.1 % 7.9 % Interest income 1,183 336 6 — 1,525 Interest expense — — 10,854 — 10,854 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 21,180 11,500 — — 32,680 Pension expense 3,759 8,196 — — 11,955 Income tax provision 50,751 13,706 (20,108 ) 58 44,407 Total Assets 873,045 532,960 16,362 496 1,422,863 Capital expenditures 22,568 13,673 — — 36,241 Net property 97,021 58,817 1 — 155,839 2014 Sales to external customers $ 663,655 $ 470,230 $ — $ — $ 1,133,885 Intercompany sales 117,681 131,477 — (249,158 ) — Operating income 134,281 Restructuring and other charges 8,515 Currency exchange losses, net 1,509 Adjusted operating income (loss) 134,819 46,847 (37,361 ) — 144,305 Adjusted operating margin % 20.3 % 10.0 % Interest income 1,450 367 5 — 1,822 Interest expense — — 9,851 — 9,851 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 20,145 9,617 — — 29,762 Pension (income) expense (1,977 ) 6,813 — — 4,836 Income tax provision 49,014 8,633 (15,972 ) (631 ) 41,044 Total Assets 883,131 359,557 20,867 (143 ) 1,263,412 Capital expenditures 20,268 13,315 — — 33,583 Net property 95,933 55,418 1 — 151,352 (1) Reconciling items consist primarily of intercompany eliminations and items not directly attributable to operating segments. Geographic information on sales to external customers, based on country of origin: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 580,724 $ 593,539 $ 530,845 Other 568,806 537,244 603,040 Total $ 1,149,530 $ 1,130,783 $ 1,133,885 Geographic information on net property, based on country of origin: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 84,675 $ 88,368 $ 85,247 China 11,732 13,504 15,128 Germany 7,919 7,596 17,654 Other 44,352 46,371 33,323 Total $ 148,678 $ 155,839 $ 151,352 The percentage of total sales by product group were as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Breathing Apparatus 26 % 27 % 19 % Fixed Gas and Flame Detection 21 % 21 % 23 % Portable Gas Detection 12 % 13 % 15 % Head Protection 10 % 11 % 13 % Fall Protection 8 % 5 % 4 % Fire & Rescue Helmets 5 % 5 % 5 % Other 18 % 18 % 21 %

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings per Share	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) 2016 2015 2014 Net income attributable to continuing operations $ 92,691 $ 69,590 $ 87,447 Preferred stock dividends (42 ) (41 ) (41 ) Income from continuing operations available to common equity 92,649 69,549 87,406 Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities (144 ) (192 ) (546 ) Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders 92,505 69,357 86,860 Net (loss) income attributable to discontinued operations $ (755 ) $ 1,217 $ 1,059 Preferred stock dividends — (1 ) (1 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations available to common equity (755 ) 1,216 1,058 Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities 1 (3 ) (7 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations available to common shareholders (754 ) 1,213 1,051 Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 37,456 37,293 37,138 Stock options and other stock compensation 530 417 590 Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 37,986 37,710 37,728 Antidilutive stock options — 658 — Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations: Basic $2.47 $1.86 $2.34 Diluted $2.44 $1.84 $2.30 (Loss) earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations: Basic $(0.02) $0.03 $0.03 Diluted $(0.02) $0.03 $0.03

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Components of income before income taxes* U.S. income $ 100,382 $ 71,547 $ 58,209 Non-U.S. income 51,529 39,479 68,986 Income before income taxes 151,911 111,026 127,195 Provision for income taxes* Current Federal $ 19,968 $ 21,253 $ 23,659 State 2,231 2,389 1,349 Non-U.S. 21,188 22,979 21,101 Total current provision 43,387 46,621 46,109 Deferred Federal $ 11,580 $ 3,813 $ (3,650 ) State 1,977 (213 ) 317 Non-U.S. 860 (5,814 ) (1,732 ) Total deferred provision 14,417 (2,214 ) (5,065 ) Provision for income taxes $ 57,804 $ 44,407 $ 41,044 *The components of income before income taxes and the provision for income taxes relate to continuing operations. MSA finalized its European reorganization during 2016. The reorganization is designed to drive optimal performance by aligning certain strategic planning and decision making into a single location enabled by a common IT platform. During 2016, the Company incurred $6.5 million of charges associated with exit taxes related to our European reorganization compared to $7.7 million in 2015. Included in discontinued operations is tax expense of $ 0.3 million in 2016, $ 0.6 million in 2015 and $ 0.6 million in 2014. Cash flows from operations in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows includes an insignificant deferred income tax provision (benefit) from discontinued operations for 2016, compared to $ 0.5 million and $ (0.3) million in 2015 and 2014, respectively. Reconciliation of the U.S. federal income tax rates for continuing operations to our effective tax rate: 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Taxes on non-U.S. income - European reorganization 4.3 6.9 — State income taxes—U.S. 1.8 1.3 0.8 Valuation allowances 1.5 1.7 (0.6 ) Taxes on non-U.S. income (2.5 ) (2.1 ) (2.2 ) Manufacturing deduction credit (1.3 ) (1.6 ) (1.0 ) Research and development credit (0.6 ) (1.1 ) (0.7 ) Other (0.1 ) (0.1 ) 1.0 Effective income tax rate 38.1 % 40.0 % 32.3 % Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets Accrued expenses and other reserves $ 5,381 $ 4,412 Product liability 1,303 6,116 Employee benefits 9,538 9,387 Share-based compensation 10,462 10,323 Reserve for doubtful accounts 1,178 2,279 Inventory 1,218 2,496 Capitalized research and development 4,654 5,339 Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards 16,218 15,310 Other 1,316 2,892 Total deferred tax assets 51,268 58,554 Valuation allowances (5,303 ) (5,153 ) Net deferred tax assets 45,965 53,401 Deferred tax liabilities Goodwill and intangibles (42,007 ) (42,867 ) Property, plant and equipment (11,394 ) (8,920 ) Other (3,368 ) (31 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (56,769 ) (51,818 ) Net deferred taxes $ (10,804 ) $ 1,583 At December 31, 2016 , we had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $37.2 million , all of which are in non-U.S. tax jurisdictions. Net operating loss carryforwards without a valuation allowance of $0.1 million will expire in 2017 . The remainder either have a valuation allowance or may be carried forward for a period of at least six years . The change in valuation allowance for the year of $0.2 million is primarily due to our inability to recognize deferred tax assets on certain foreign entities that continue to generate losses. No deferred U.S. income taxes have been provided on undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries, which amounted to $422.3 million as of December 31, 2016 . These earnings are considered to be reinvested for an indefinite period of time. Because we currently do not have any plans to repatriate these funds, we cannot determine the impact of local taxes, withholding taxes and foreign tax credits associated with the future repatriation of such earnings and, therefore, cannot reasonably estimate the associated tax liability. In cases where we intend to repatriate a portion of the undistributed earnings of our foreign subsidiaries, we provide U.S. income taxes on such earnings. A reconciliation of the change in the tax liability for unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ 13,070 $ 9,857 Adjustments for tax positions related to the current year 2,359 8,203 Adjustments for tax positions related to prior years (856 ) (4,887 ) Statute expiration (180 ) (103 ) Ending balance $ 14,393 $ 13,070 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 $4.3 million and $2.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 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 $0.9 million at December 31, 2015 . During 2016 , we increased interest related to uncertain tax positions by $0.6 million . Our liability for accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions was $1.5 million at December 31, 2016 . We file a U.S. federal income tax return along with various state and foreign income tax returns. Examinations of our U.S. federal returns have been completed through 2013, with the 2012 tax year closed by statute. Various state and foreign income tax returns may be subject to tax audits for periods after 2010.

Stock Plans

Stock Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Plans	Stock Plans The 2016 Management Equity Incentive Plan provides for various forms of stock-based compensation for eligible key employees through May 2026. Management stock-based compensation includes stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units 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 prices and expire after ten years. Stock options are exercisable beginning three years after the grant date. Restricted stock and restricted stock units are granted without payment to the Company and generally vest three years after the grant date. Restricted stock and restricted stock units are valued at the market value of the stock on the grant date. Performance stock units with a market condition are valued at an estimated fair value using the Monte Carlo model. 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 the specified performance targets over the performance period. In general, unvested stock options, restricted stock and performance stock units are forfeited if the participant’s employment with the Company terminates for any reason other than retirement, death or disability. We issue Treasury shares for stock option exercises and grants of restricted stock and performance stock. Please refer to Note 6 for further information regarding stock compensation share issuance. As of December 31, 2016 , there were 1,368,638 and 139,657 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) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock $ 3,456 $ 3,035 $ 4,026 Stock options 2,459 2,454 2,355 Performance stock 3,296 2,110 2,672 Total compensation expense before income taxes 9,211 7,599 9,053 Income tax benefit 3,375 2,896 3,293 Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit $ 5,836 $ 4,703 $ 5,760 We did not capitalize any stock-based compensation expense, and all expense is recorded in SG&A expense in 2016 , 2015 , or 2014 . 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 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . 2016 2015 2014 Fair value per option $ 11.69 $ 15.63 $ 17.26 Risk-free interest rate 1.6 % 1.8 % 2.1 % Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.4 % Expected volatility 34 % 39 % 41 % Expected life (years) 7.0 6.7 6.6 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, 2014 1,695,380 $ 34.55 Granted 138,519 51.69 Exercised (190,743 ) 36.31 Expired (1,071 ) 45.68 Forfeited (23,524 ) 38.82 Outstanding December 31, 2014 1,618,561 35.74 1,147,712 Granted 170,683 48.64 Exercised (64,752 ) 38.59 Expired (1,109 ) 44.36 Forfeited (28,708 ) 49.71 Outstanding December 31, 2015 1,694,675 36.69 1,280,665 Granted 235,233 44.50 Exercised (341,063 ) 37.34 Forfeited (12,753 ) 46.11 Outstanding December 31, 2016 1,576,092 $ 37.63 1,098,615 For various exercise price ranges, characteristics of outstanding and exercisable stock options at December 31, 2016 were as follows: Stock Options Outstanding Range of Exercise Prices Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Remaining Life $17.83 – $33.00 456,938 $ 21.66 2.64 $33.01 – $45.00 566,173 39.60 6.06 $45.01 – $51.69 552,981 48.82 5.69 $17.83 – $51.69 1,576,092 $ 37.63 4.94 Stock Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Remaining Life $17.83 – $33.00 456,938 $ 21.66 2.64 $33.01 – $45.00 346,157 36.49 4.09 $45.01 – $51.69 295,520 47.84 3.91 $17.83 – $51.69 1,098,615 $ 33.37 3.44 Cash received from the exercise of stock options was $12.5 million , $1.9 million and $6.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The tax benefit (provision) we realized from these exercises was $0.6 million , $(0.1) million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Stock options become exercisable when they are vested. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable at December 31, 2016 was $39.5 million . The aggregate intrinsic value of all stock options outstanding at December 31, 2016 was $50.0 million . A summary of restricted stock and unit activity follows: Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at January 1, 2014 303,419 $ 39.79 Granted 83,543 51.91 Vested (108,245 ) 34.94 Forfeited (9,974 ) 44.42 Unvested at December 31, 2014 268,743 45.34 Granted 83,725 48.06 Vested (111,834 ) 39.01 Forfeited (22,925 ) 45.84 Unvested at December 31, 2015 217,709 49.70 Granted 107,465 50.65 Vested (76,568 ) 49.12 Forfeited (14,014 ) 48.23 Unvested at December 31, 2016 234,592 $ 49.76 A summary of performance stock unit activity follows: Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at January 1, 2014 149,389 $ 46.32 Granted 46,242 57.42 Vested (91,696 ) 39.19 Performance adjustments 41,428 39.42 Forfeited (1,402 ) 48.85 Unvested at December 31, 2014 143,961 52.42 Granted 87,256 41.99 Vested (66,200 ) 41.75 Performance adjustments 16,447 41.45 Forfeited (9,820 ) 51.51 Unvested at December 31, 2015 171,644 50.24 Granted 65,355 44.28 Vested (31,181 ) 58.54 Performance adjustments (15,594 ) 58.54 Forfeited (3,603 ) 44.47 Unvested at December 31, 2016 186,621 $ 46.18 The 2016 performance adjustments above relate to the final number of shares issued for the 2013 Management Performance Units, which were 66.6% of the target award based on Total Shareholder Return during the three year performance period, and vested in the first quarter of 2016. During the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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 $6.4 million , $0.5 million and $3.7 million , respectively. The fair values of restricted stock vested during the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 were $3.7 million , $5.3 million and $5.8 million , respectively. The fair value of performance stock units vested during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $1.8 million . On December 31, 2016 , there was $6.7 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense. The weighted average period over which this expense is expected to be recognized was approximately two years .

Short and Long-Term Debt

Short and Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Short and Long-Term Debt	Short and Long-Term Debt Short-Term Debt Short-term borrowings with banks, which excludes the current portion of long-term debt, was insignificant at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The average month-end balance of total short-term borrowings during 2016 was $0.1 million . The maximum month-end balance of $0.2 million occurred in May, 2016. Long-Term Debt On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted ASU 2015-03 Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs and ASU 2015-15 Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs . As a result of the adoption of these ASUs, our debt balances are now reported net of debt issuance costs. December 31, 2015 debt balances have been adjusted to conform with current year presentation. December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2006 Senior Notes payable through 2021, 5.41%, net of debt issuance costs $ 33,333 $ 39,999 2010 Senior Notes payable through 2021, 4.00%, net of debt issuance costs 100,000 100,000 2016 Senior Notes payable through 2031, 3.40%, net of debt issuance costs 67,713 — Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2020, net of debt issuance costs 189,456 324,673 Total 390,502 464,672 Amounts due within one year 26,666 6,650 Long-term debt $ 363,836 $ 458,022 Under the 2015 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement associated with our senior revolving credit facility, the Company may elect either a Base rate of interest (“BASE”) or an interest rate based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). The BASE is a daily fluctuating per annum rate equal to the highest of (i) the Prime Rate, (ii) the Federal Funds Open Rate plus one half of one percent ( 0.5% ) or (iii) the Daily Libor Rate plus one percent ( 1.00% ). The Company pays a credit spread of 0 to 175 basis points based on the Company’s net EBITDA leverage ratio and elected rate (BASE or LIBOR). The Company has a weighted average revolver interest rate of 2.27% as of December 31, 2016 . At December 31, 2016 , $377.2 million of the existing $575.0 million senior revolving credit facility was unused, including letters of credit. On January 22, 2016, the Company entered into multi-currency note purchase and private shelf agreement, pursuant to which MSA issued notes in an aggregate original principal amount of £54.9 million (approximately $67.8 million at December 31, 2016 ). The Notes are repayable in annual installments of £6.1 million (approximately $7.5 million at December 31, 2016 ), commencing January 22, 2023, with a final payment of any remaining amount outstanding on January 22, 2031. The interest rate on these notes is fixed at 3.4% . The note purchase agreement requires MSA to comply with specified financial covenants including a requirement to maintain a minimum fixed charges coverage ratio of not less than 1.50 to 1.00 and a consolidated leverage ration not to exceed 3.25 to 1.00; in each case calculated on the basis of the trailing four fiscal quarters. In addition, the note purchase agreement contains negative covenants limiting the ability of MSA and its subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness or issue guarantees, create or incur liens, make loans and investments, make acquisitions, transfer or sell assets, enter into transactions with affiliated parties, make changes in its organizational documents that are materially adverse to lenders or modify the nature of MSA's or its subsidiaries' business. Approximate maturities on our long-term debt over the next five years are $26.7 million in 2017, $26.7 million in 2018, $26.7 million in 2019, $217.7 million in 2020, $26.7 million in 2021, and $67.8 million thereafter. The revolving credit facilities require the Company to comply with specified financial covenants. In addition, the credit facilities contain negative covenants limiting the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to enter into specified transactions. The Company was in compliance with all covenants at December 31, 2016 . The Company had outstanding bank guarantees and standby letters of credit with banks as of December 31, 2016 , totaling $13.1 million , of which $6.9 million relate to the senior revolving credit facility. The letters of credit serve to cover customer requirements in connection with certain sales orders and insurance companies. The full amount of the letters of credit were unused and available at December 31, 2016 . The Company is also required to provide cash collateral in connection with certain arrangements. At December 31, 2016 , the Company has $1.2 million of restricted cash in support of these arrangements.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Changes in goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Net balance at January 1 $ 340,338 $ 252,520 Additions (Note 13) 10,485 97,959 Disposal (338 ) — Currency translation (17,209 ) (10,141 ) Net balance at December 31 $ 333,276 $ 340,338 At December 31, 2016 , goodwill of $198.8 million and $134.5 million related to the Americas and International reporting segments, respectively. During the 2016 first quarter, we sold 100% of the stock of associated with our South African personal protective equipment distribution business and our Zambian operations, as disclosed in Note 20. This transaction resulted in a $0.2 million disposal of goodwill. Changes in intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Net balance at January 1 $ 90,068 $ 31,323 Additions (Note 13) 4,420 67,645 Amortization expense (7,885 ) (4,811 ) Impairment losses (Note 15) — (723 ) Currency translation (9,588 ) (3,366 ) Net balance at December 31 $ 77,015 $ 90,068 (In millions) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Intangible Assets: Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization and Reserves Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization and Reserves Net Carrying Amount Customer relationships 14 $ 45.5 $ (3.6 ) $ 41.9 $ 50.5 $ (0.7 ) $ 49.8 Distribution agreements 20 25.2 (8.0 ) 17.2 24.6 (6.2 ) 18.4 Technology related assets 10 18.0 (10.3 ) 7.7 17.5 (8.3 ) 9.2 Patents, trademarks and copyrights 14 17.0 (7.1 ) 9.9 16.5 (4.6 ) 11.9 License agreements 5 5.3 (5.3 ) — 5.4 (5.3 ) 0.1 Other 2 2.6 (2.3 ) 0.3 3.9 (3.2 ) 0.7 Total 14 $ 113.6 $ (36.6 ) $ 77.0 $ 118.4 $ (28.3 ) $ 90.1 Intangible asset amortization expense over the next five years is expected to be approximately $7.5 million in 2017, $6.1 million in 2018, $6.1 million in 2019, $6.1 million in 2020, and $5.9 million in 2021.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions Acquisition of Senscient, Inc. On September 19, 2016, we acquired 100% of the common stock of Senscient, Inc. ("Senscient") for $19.1 million in cash. There is no contingent consideration. Senscient, which is headquartered in the UK, is a leader in laser-based gas detection technology. The acquisition of Senscient expands and enhances MSA’s technology offerings in the global market for fixed gas and flame detection systems, as the Company continues to execute its core product growth strategy. The acquisition was funded through borrowings on our unsecured senior revolving credit facility. The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the Senscient assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition: (In millions) September 19, 2016 Current assets (including cash of $0.7 million) $ 5.9 Property, plant and equipment and other noncurrent assets 0.3 Acquired technology 1.6 Customer-related intangibles 2.8 Goodwill 10.5 Total assets acquired 21.1 Total liabilities assumed 2.0 Net assets acquired $ 19.1 The amounts in the table above are subject to change as we complete our valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. This valuation is expected to be completed by mid-2017. Acquisition of Latchways On October 21, 2015, MSA Safety Incorporated acquired Latchways plc and its affiliated companies, Latchways Australia Pty Limited ("LA"), Latchways Inc. ("LI"), HCL Group Plc ("HCL"), Height Solutions Limited ("HSL"), and Sigma 6 d.o.o. ('Sigma 6"), collectively referred to as ("Latchways"), for $190.9 million . There is no contingent consideration. The acquisition was funded through cash on hand and borrowings on our $125.0 million unsecured senior revolving credit facility. Latchways is a global provider of innovative fall protection systems based in the United Kingdom. Latchways solutions are found throughout the aerospace, power transmission, utility and telecommunication sectors, and Latchways products are integrated with major roofing and tower systems. In addition to providing us with greater access to the fall protection market, we believe that the acquisition significantly enhances our long-term corporate strategy in fall protection by providing us with world-class research and development talent and an industry-leading product line. While Latchways products will be sold globally, its operations will most significantly impact our International reportable segment. The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the Latchways assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition: (In millions) October 21, 2015 Current assets (including cash of $10.6 million) $ 35.7 Property, plant and equipment 9.5 Trade name and acquired technology 14.6 Customer-related intangibles 53.0 Goodwill 98.0 Total assets acquired 210.8 Total liabilities assumed 19.9 Net assets acquired $ 190.9 The purchase price allocation was finalized in the 2016 third quarter and did not result in any adjustments to the preliminary fair values. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with both acquisitions 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. The valuation methods used to determine the fair value of intangible assets included the excess earnings approach for all customer relationships and Latchways technology related intangible assets; the relief from royalty method for the Latchways trade name and Senscient technology related intangible assets; and the cost method for assembled workforce which is included in goodwill for both acquisitions. A number of significant assumptions and estimates were involved in the application of these valuation methods, including sales volumes and prices, costs to produce, tax rates, capital spending, discount rates, and working capital changes. Cash flow forecasts were generally based on Latchways and Senscient pre-acquisition forecasts coupled with estimated MSA sales synergies. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are subject to amortization over their estimated useful lives. The identifiable intangible assets acquired in the Latchways transaction will be amortized over an estimated amortization period of 15 years . The identifiable intangible assets for Senscient include technology and customer-related intangibles which will be amortized over ten and five years , respectively. Estimated future amortization expense related to Latchways and Senscient identifiable intangible assets is approximately $4.5 million and $0.7 million , respectively, in each of the next five years. A step up to fair value of acquired inventory of $1.6 million was recorded as part of the Latchways purchase price allocation. Amortization expense for inventory step up was $1.4 million in 2016 and the remaining $0.2 million is expected to be amortized in 2017. Estimated future depreciation expense related to Latchways property, plant and equipment is approximately $0.9 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 Latchways and Senscient with our operations. Goodwill related to the Latchways acquisition has been recorded in our reportable segments as follows: $96.6 million in the International segment and $1.4 million in the Americas segment. Goodwill for Latchways is not expected to be tax deductible. Goodwill of $10.5 million related to the Senscient acquisition is included in the International operating segment and is deductible for tax purposes. Our results for the year ended December 31, 2016, include transaction and integration costs of $0.8 million related to the Senscient acquisition as well as integration costs of $0.5 million ( $0.4 million after tax) related to the Latchways acquisition. Our results for the year ended December 31, 2015, include transaction costs related to the Latchways acquisition of $5.0 million , of which $2.8 million is expected to be non-deductible for tax purposes. Integration costs related to the Latchways acquisition totaled $2.5 million ( $1.6 million after tax). These costs are all reported in selling, general and administrative expenses. The operating results of Latchways and Senscient have been included in our consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date through December 31, 2016. Our results for the year ended December 31, 2016 include Senscient sales of $2.7 million and a net loss of $(1.1) million . These results include amortization, primarily related to intangible assets, of $0.2 million . Our results for the year ended December 31, 2015 include Latchways sales and net loss of $10.1 million and ($0.7) million , respectively. The following unaudited pro forma information presents our combined results as if both acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of 2015. The unaudited pro forma financial information was prepared to give effect to events that are (1) directly attributable to the acquisition; (2) factually supportable; and (3) expected to have a continuing impact on the combined company’s results. There were no material transactions between MSA and either Latchways or Senscient during the periods presented that are required to be eliminated. Intercompany transactions between Latchways companies as well as Senscient companies during the periods presented have been eliminated in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information. The unaudited pro forma financial information does not reflect any cost savings, operating synergies or revenue enhancements that the combined companies 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) (In millions, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 Net sales $ 1,153 $ 1,175 Income from continuing operations 93 75 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations 2.48 2.00 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations 2.44 1.98 The unaudited pro forma condensed combined 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 condensed combined financial information is not intended to project the future financial position or results of operations of the combined company. The unaudited pro forma financial information was prepared using the acquisition method of accounting for both acquisitions under existing U.S. GAAP. MSA has been treated as the acquirer.

Pensions and Other Post-retirem

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits	Pensions and Other Post-retirement 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 post-retirement benefits plans is provided in the following table: Pension Benefits Other Benefits (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Change in Benefit Obligations Benefit obligations at January 1 $ 491,180 $ 519,194 $ 22,974 $ 26,851 Service cost 10,417 11,517 426 444 Interest cost 18,752 18,314 946 863 Participant contributions 100 105 222 255 Plan amendments (1,092 ) 604 (400 ) — Actuarial (gains) losses 9,123 (21,073 ) 1,285 (3,998 ) Benefits paid (19,550 ) (19,261 ) (1,773 ) (1,441 ) Curtailments (163 ) — — — Settlements (381 ) (2,094 ) — — Currency translation (4,389 ) (16,126 ) — — Benefit obligations at December 31 503,997 491,180 23,680 22,974 Change in Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at January 1 419,088 445,299 — — Actual return on plan assets 31,418 (4,754 ) — — Employer contributions 3,878 4,058 1,551 1,186 Participant contributions 100 105 222 255 Settlements (381 ) (2,094 ) — — Benefits paid (19,550 ) (16,979 ) (1,773 ) (1,441 ) Reimbursement of German benefits — (2,282 ) — — Administrative Expenses Paid — 6 — — Currency translation (1,291 ) (4,271 ) — — Fair value of plan assets at December 31 433,262 419,088 — — Funded Status Funded status at December 31 (70,735 ) (72,092 ) (23,680 ) (22,974 ) Unrecognized transition losses 8 12 — — Unrecognized prior service (credit) cost (646 ) 525 (1,505 ) (1,524 ) Unrecognized net actuarial losses 187,738 188,531 3,643 2,117 Net amount recognized 116,365 116,976 (21,542 ) (22,381 ) Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet Noncurrent assets 62,916 62,072 — — Current liabilities (4,620 ) (5,033 ) (1,638 ) (1,382 ) Noncurrent liabilities (129,031 ) (129,131 ) (22,042 ) (21,592 ) Net amount recognized (70,735 ) (72,092 ) (23,680 ) (22,974 ) Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Net actuarial losses 187,738 188,531 3,643 2,425 Prior service (credit) cost (646 ) 525 (1,505 ) (1,523 ) Unrecognized net initial obligation 8 12 — — Total (before tax effects) 187,100 189,068 2,138 902 Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans 465,448 453,382 — — Pension Benefits Other Benefits (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 10,417 $ 11,517 $ 9,425 $ 426 $ 444 $ 538 Interest cost 18,752 18,314 19,340 946 863 1,107 Expected return on plan assets (34,751 ) (34,130 ) (32,944 ) — — — Amortization of transition amounts 2 2 2 — — — Amortization of prior service (credit) cost (14 ) 66 84 (419 ) (335 ) (335 ) Recognized net actuarial losses 11,921 15,545 8,639 68 27 182 Settlement loss 5 641 290 — — — Termination benefits — — — — — — Net periodic benefit cost $ 6,332 $ 11,955 $ 4,836 $ 1,021 $ 999 $ 1,492 Actuarial gains and losses are amortized over the average future working lifetime of the active population in the plan using the projected unit credit method. This approximates 11 years . Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized in 2017 net periodic benefit costs. (In thousands) Pension Benefits Other Benefits Loss recognition $ 12,255 $ 103 Prior service credit recognition (15 ) (288 ) Transition obligation recognition 1 — Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. (In thousands) 2016 2015 Aggregate accumulated benefit obligations (ABO) $ 147,531 $ 147,864 Aggregate projected benefit obligations (PBO) 160,543 161,009 Aggregate fair value of plan assets 26,986 26,844 Pension Benefits Other Benefits 2016 2015 2016 2015 Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations Average discount rate 3.67 % 3.92 % 4.05 % 4.20 % Rate of compensation increase 2.99 % 3.06 % — — Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost Average discount rate 3.92 % 3.63 % 4.20 % 3.85 % Expected return on plan assets 8.18 % 8.17 % — — Rate of compensation increase 3.06 % 3.03 % — — 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 2016 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, 2016 2015 Equity securities 70 % 67 % Fixed income securities 20 24 Pooled investment funds 5 5 Insurance contracts 4 3 Cash and cash equivalents 1 1 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 (See Note 18): December 31, 2016 (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 $ 242,161 $ 62,299 $ — $ 304,460 Fixed income securities 25,109 62,667 — 87,776 Pooled investment funds — 20,156 — 20,156 Insurance contracts — — 14,948 14,948 Cash and cash equivalents 5,922 — — 5,922 Total $ 273,192 $ 145,122 $ 14,948 $ 433,262 December 31, 2015 (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 $ 225,191 $ 55,428 $ — $ 280,619 Fixed income securities 29,903 70,164 — 100,067 Pooled investment funds — 19,345 — 19,345 Insurance contracts — — 13,681 13,681 Cash and cash equivalents 5,376 — — 5,376 Total $ 260,470 $ 144,937 $ 13,681 $ 419,088 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 securities consist 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. The fair value of the plan assets equals the discounted value of the expected cash flows of the accrued pensions which are guaranteed by the counterparty insurer. 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 Other Balance January 1, 2015 $ 15,069 $ 753 Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings (1,526 ) (64 ) Net purchases, issuances and settlements 138 (184 ) Transfers out of Level 3 — (505 ) Balance December 31, 2015 13,681 — Net realized and unrealized gains included in earnings 975 — Net purchases, issuances and settlements 292 — Transfers out of Level 3 — — Balance December 31, 2016 $ 14,948 $ — We expect to make net contributions of $5.9 million to our pension plans in 2017 which are primarily associated with our International segment. For the 2016 beginning of the year measurement purposes (net periodic benefit expense), 6.5% increase in the costs of covered health care benefits was assumed decreasing by 0.5% for each successive year to 4.5% in 2020 and thereafter. For the 2016 end of the year measurement purposes (benefit obligation), 6.0% increase in the costs of covered health care benefits was assumed decreasing by 0.5% for each successive year to 4.5% in 2021 and thereafter. A one -percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have increased or decreased the other post-retirement benefit obligations and current year plan expense by approximately $810 thousand and $55 thousand , respectively. Expense for defined contribution pension plans was $5.1 million in 2016 , $6.8 million in 2015 and $6.5 million in 2014 . Estimated pension benefits to be paid under our defined benefit pension plans during the next five years are $20.9 million in 2017, $21.6 million in 2018, $22.2 million in 2019, $23.7 million in 2020, $24.6 million in 2021, and are expected to aggregate $138.5 million for the five years thereafter. Estimated other post-retirement benefits to be paid during the next five years are $1.7 million in 2017, $1.7 million in 2018, $1.9 million in 2019, $1.8 million in 2020, $1.9 million in 2021, and are expected to aggregate $8.1 million for the five years thereafter.

Other Income (Loss), Net

Other Income (Loss), Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Income (Loss), Net	Other Income (Loss), Net (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Interest income $ 2,827 $ 1,525 $ 1,822 Gain on asset dispositions, net 593 1,724 2,094 Other, net 710 836 (1,101 ) Disposal of non-core product lines — (4,223 ) — Impairment of intangible assets — (723 ) — Land impairment loss — — (50 ) Total other income (loss), net $ 4,130 $ (861 ) $ 2,765 During the year ended December 31, 2016 , we recognized $2.8 million of income related to interest earned on cash balances and notes receivable from insurance companies. Please refer to Note 19 Contingencies to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II Item 8 of this Form 10-K for further discussion on the Company's notes receivable from insurance companies. During the year ended December 31, 2015 , we recorded $4.2 million of losses associated with the disposal of net assets related to the Safety Works business in our Americas segment. A discounted cash flow valuation was also performed and showed that the book value of intangible assets used to support certain non-core product sales exceeded their fair value by $0.7 million in our Americas segment. Additionally, we recognized a $2.0 million gain on the sale of property in Australia, which is part of our International segment, as the Company continues to right-size operations and optimize its global footprint. During the year ended December 31, 2014 , we recognized a $2.2 million gain on the sale of detector tube assets in our International segment. All proceeds associated with this transaction were collected in 2014. Under the terms of the transitional agreements, we continued to manufacture and sell detector tubes on behalf of the buyer until mid-2014.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases We lease office space, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, automobiles and other equipment under operating lease arrangements. Rent expense was $12.6 million in 2016 , $10.8 million in 2015 and $11.7 million in 2014 . Minimum rent commitments under noncancellable leases are $12.2 million in 2017 , $11.0 million in 2018 , $10.6 million in 2019 , $5.2 million in 2020 , $4.2 million in 2021 and $7.0 million thereafter.

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	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 U.S. 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, 2016 , the notional amount of open forward contracts was $75.3 million and the unrealized gain on these contracts was $0.3 million . All open forward contracts will mature during the first quarter of 2017. The following table presents the balance sheet location and fair value of assets and liabilities associated with derivative financial instruments. December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts: other current liabilities $ 258 $ 581 Foreign exchange contracts: other current assets 566 401 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, 2016 2015 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts Currency exchange loss $ 6,675 $ 2,187

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	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 14 and the derivative financial instruments described in Note 17. See Note 14 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. 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. The reported carrying amount of long-term debt (including the current portion) was $175 million and $140 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The fair value of this debt was $194 million and $145 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The fair value of this debt was determined using Level 2 inputs by evaluating like rated companies with publicly traded bonds where available or current borrowing rates available for financings with similar terms and maturities.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies Product Liability The Company categorizes the product liability losses of its subsidiary MSA LLC into two main categories: single incident and cumulative trauma. Single incident claims. Single incident product liability claims involve incidents of short duration that are typically known to us when they occur and involve observable injuries, which provide an objective basis for quantifying damages. MSA LLC estimates its liability for single incident product liability claims based on expected settlement costs for reported claims and an estimate of costs for unreported claims (claims incurred but not reported or IBNR). The estimate for IBNR claims is based on experience, sales volumes, and other relevant information. The reserve for single incident product liability claims, which includes reported and IBNR claims, was $3.4 million at December 31, 2016 and $3.5 million at December 31, 2015 . Single incident product liability expense during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $0.8 million and was $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 . Single incident product liability exposures are evaluated on an annual basis, or more frequently if changing circumstances warrant. Adjustments are made to the reserve as appropriate. Cumulative trauma claims. 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, mesothelioma, or coal worker’s pneumoconiosis. MSA LLC is presently named as a defendant in 1,794 lawsuits comprised of 3,023 claims. These lawsuits mainly involve respiratory protection products allegedly manufactured and sold by MSA LLC or its predecessors. The products at issue were manufactured many years ago and are not currently offered by MSA LLC. Although there is year over year variability in the number and quality of claims defended and resolved, MSA LLC’s aggregate spend for cumulative trauma product liability claims (inclusive of settlements and defense costs) for the three years ended December 31, 2016, totaled approximately $150.9 million , substantially all of which was recorded as insurance receivables because the amounts are believed to be recoverable under insurance. A summary of cumulative trauma product liability lawsuit and pending claims activity follows: 2016 2015 2014 Open lawsuits, January 1 1,988 2,326 2,840 New lawsuits 379 340 542 Settled and dismissed lawsuits (573 ) (678 ) (1,056 ) Open lawsuits, December 31 1,794 1,988 2,326 2016 2015 2014 Pending claims, January 1 3,779 5,539 8,941 New claims 843 465 542 Settled and dismissed claims (1,599 ) (2,225 ) (3,944 ) Pending claims, December 31 3,023 3,779 5,539 More than half of the open lawsuits at December 31, 2016 have had a de minimis level of activity over the last 5 years. It is possible that these cases could become active again at any time due to changes in circumstances. Management works with its outside valuation consultant and outside legal counsel to review its cumulative trauma product liability exposure on an annual basis, or more frequently if changing circumstances or developments in existing cases make an interim review appropriate. The review process takes into account the number and composition of pending claims, outcomes of matters resolved during current and prior periods, and variances associated with different plaintiffs’ counsel and venues as well as other information known about the current docket. Cumulative trauma product liability litigation is inherently unpredictable. Factors that can limit our ability to estimate potential liability include the lack of claims experience with applicable plaintiffs’ counsel, as claims experience can vary significantly among different counsel, low volume of resolution, lack of confidence with the consistency of claims composition, or other factors. With respect to the risk associated with any particular case, it has typically not been until very late in the legal process that it can be reasonably determined whether it is probable that any such case will ultimately result in a liability. This uncertainty is caused by many factors, including consideration of the applicable statute of limitations, the sufficiency of product identification and other defenses. Complaints generally do not provide information sufficient to determine if a lawsuit will develop into an actively litigated case. 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 if it is probable that such a lawsuit will result in a loss, it is often difficult to estimate the amount of actual loss that will be incurred. These actual loss amounts are highly variable and turn on a case by case analysis of the relevant facts, including the nature of the injury, the jurisdiction in which the claim is filed, the plaintiffs' counsel and the number of parties in the lawsuit. In addition, there are uncertainties concerning the impact of bankruptcies of other companies that are co-defendants in claims, uncertainties surrounding the litigation process from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and case to case. Consequently, MSA LLC is unable to comprehensively estimate its cumulative trauma product liability exposure. Currently management, in consultation with its outside valuation consultant and outside legal counsel, has been unable to estimate, and therefore has not recorded any liability, for MSA LLC’s IBNR claims as well as for certain of its existing coal dust claims, including those coal dust claims that arose subsequent to the Couch verdict described below. At December 31, 2015, MSA LLC established a $7.1 million cumulative trauma product liability reserve for reported claims. During 2016, we increased this reserve by $0.4 million to $7.5 million as of December 31, 2016. The total cumulative trauma product liability reserve, including the estimated reserve for reported claims and settlements that have not yet been paid, totaled $11.1 million at December 31, 2016. This reserve is recorded in the insurance and product liability line within other current liabilities section of the Consolidated Balance Sheet. To arrive at the estimated reserve, it was necessary to employ significant assumptions. In addition, the reserve does not include amounts which will be spent to defend the claims covered by the reserve. These costs are recognized as incurred. As noted above, the liability recorded does not take into account any IBNR claims and certain of the currently pending coal dust claims against MSA LLC. These claims have not been included in the reserve due to a lack of claims experience with the applicable plaintiffs’ counsel, low volume of resolution, or lack of confidence in the consistency of claims composition, or other factors, which have rendered us unable to reasonably assess the probability and estimate the magnitude of potential losses. Because litigation is subject to inherent uncertainties, and unfavorable rulings or developments could occur, there can be no certainty that MSA LLC may not ultimately incur charges in excess of presently recorded liabilities with respect to claims included within the existing reserve or related to claims not included in the reserve. We will adjust the reserve for our liability relating to cumulative trauma claims from time to time based on the maturation of claims, developing facts and circumstances, and if actual experience is worse than previously projected. These adjustments may reflect changes in estimates for claims currently covered by the reserve, as well as estimated liabilities for claims not presently covered by the reserve and IBNR claims, in the event we become able to reasonably assess the probability and estimate the magnitude of potential losses. These adjustments may be material and could increase the year over year variability of our financial results. On February 26, 2016, a Kentucky state court jury in the James Couch claim rendered a verdict against MSA LLC of $7.2 million dollars (comprised of $3.2 million of an apportioned share of compensatory damages and $4.0 million in punitive damages). The Couch claim is a cumulative trauma product liability lawsuit involving exposure to coal dust. Management believes that the verdict against MSA LLC is inconsistent with Kentucky law and many issues have been raised on appeal, including the statute of limitations, failure to meet the standard of causation and the appropriate application of punitive damages. The Company and its outside legal counsel have concluded that, based on their assessment of the appellate issues, a reversal of the adverse judgment is reasonably possible and, consequently, a loss contingency is not probable at this time and is not included in the $7.5 million product liability reserve as of December 31, 2016. In the future, if the Company determines that losses with respect to this matter are probable, MSA LLC, consistent with its existing practices, will record an accrual and provide appropriate disclosures as required by ASC 450-20-50, Contingencies. In the event that MSA LLC’s appeal of the adverse verdict is unsuccessful or not fully successful, the loss could total the full amount of the verdict, plus additional amounts for post-judgment interest. If so, the $3.2 million compensatory portion of the verdict (and associated interest) would be added to the product liability reserve and the insurance receivable, to the extent insurance is available. The $4.0 million punitive portion of the verdict (and associated interest) would be expensed because we do not have insurance to cover punitive damages in this case. Insurance Receivable MSA LLC purchased insurance policies for the policy years from 1952-1986 from over 20 different insurance carriers that, subject to some common contract exclusions, provide coverage for cumulative trauma product liability losses and, in many instances, related defense costs (the "Occurrence-Based Policies"). After 1986, MSA LLC’s insurance policies have significant per claim deductibles. Based on this, the Company does not expect to be materially reimbursed for any claims alleging exposures that occurred entirely after this date. In the normal course of business, MSA LLC makes payments to settle product liability claims and for related defense costs and records receivables for the amounts that are covered by insurance. The available limits of the applicable Occurrence-Based Policies exceed the recorded insurance receivable balance. Various factors could affect the timing and amount of recovery of the insurance receivable, including the outcome of negotiations with insurers and the outcome of the coverage litigation with respect to the Occurrence-Based Policies, and the extent to which the issuing insurers may become insolvent in the future. Insurance receivables at December 31, 2016 totaled $159.9 million , of which $2.0 million is reported in prepaid expenses and other current assets and $157.9 million is reported in insurance receivable and other non-current assets. Insurance receivables at December 31, 2015 totaled $229.5 million , of which $2.0 million is reported in prepaid expenses and other current assets and $227.5 million in insurance receivable and other non-current assets. A summary of insurance receivable balances and activity related to cumulative trauma product liability losses follows: (In millions) 2016 2015 2014 Balance beginning of period $ 229.5 $ 220.5 $ 124.8 Additions 29.2 17.3 98.2 Collections and settlements converted to notes receivable (98.8 ) (8.3 ) (2.5 ) Balance end of period $ 159.9 $ 229.5 $ 220.5 Additions to insurance receivables in the above table represent insured cumulative trauma product liability losses and related defense costs. Collections and settlements primarily represent agreements with insurance companies to pay amounts due that are applicable to cumulative trauma claims. When there are contingencies embedded in these agreements, we apply payments to the undiscounted receivable in the period when the contingency is met. In some cases, settlements are converted to formal notes receivable from insurance companies. The notes receivable are recorded as a transfer from the insurance receivable balance to the note receivable, insurance companies (current and noncurrent) in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. In cases where the payment stream covers multiple years and there are no contingencies, the present value of the payments is recorded as a transfer from the insurance receivable balance to the note receivable, insurance companies (current and long-term) in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Provided the remaining insurance receivable is recoverable through the insurance carriers, no gain or loss is recognized at the time of transfer from insurance receivable to notes receivable from insurance companies. Notes receivable from insurance companies at December 31, 2016 totaled $67.3 million , of which $4.2 million is reported in Notes receivable, insurance companies, current and $63.1 million is reported in Notes receivable, insurance companies, noncurrent. Notes receivable from insurance companies at December 31, 2015 totaled $8.7 million , of which $6.7 million is reported in Notes receivable, insurance companies, current and $2 million is reported in Notes receivable, insurance companies, noncurrent. A summary of notes receivable balances from insurance companies is as follows: (In millions) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Balance beginning of period $ 8.7 $ 16.2 Additions 95.6 0.5 Collections (37.0 ) (8.0 ) Balance end of period $ 67.3 $ 8.7 The collectibility of MSA LLC's insurance receivables is regularly evaluated and we believe that the amounts recorded are probable of collection. These determinations are based on analysis of the terms of the underlying insurance policies, experience in successfully recovering cumulative trauma product liability claims from our insurers under other policies, the financial ability of the insurance carriers to pay the claims, understanding and interpretation of the relevant facts and applicable law and the advice of MSA LLC's outside legal counsel. We believe that successful resolution of insurance litigation with various insurance carriers over the years, as well as the recent trial verdict against North River, which resulted in a favorable outcome, demonstrate that we have strong legal positions concerning MSA LLC's rights to coverage. The trial verdict is described below. Uninsured cumulative trauma product liability losses during the year ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 , and 2014 were $0.3 million , $1.0 million and $3.9 million , respectively. Insurance Litigation MSA LLC is currently involved in insurance coverage litigation with a number of its insurance carriers regarding its Occurrence-Based Policies. In 2009, MSA LLC (as Mine Safety Appliances Company) sued The North River Insurance Company (North River) in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleging that North River breached one of its insurance policies by failing to pay amounts owed to MSA LLC and that it engaged in bad-faith claims handling. MSA LLC believes that North River’s refusal to indemnify it under the policy for product liability losses and legal fees paid by MSA LLC is wholly contrary to Pennsylvania law and MSA LLC is vigorously pursuing the legal actions necessary to collect all due amounts. A trial date has not yet been scheduled. In 2010, North River sued MSA LLC (as Mine Safety Appliances Company) in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania seeking a declaratory judgment concerning their responsibilities under three additional policies. MSA LLC asserted claims against North River for breaches of contract for failures to pay amounts owed to MSA LLC. MSA LLC also alleged that North River engaged in bad-faith claims handling. On October 6, 2016, a Pennsylvania state court jury found that North River breached the three contracts at issue in the case, and that North River also violated common law standards of bad faith in handling MSA LLC's clams. As a result of the jury's findings, the court entered a verdict in favor of MSA LLC and against North River for $10.9 million , the full amount of the contractual damages at issue in the case. The $10.9 million , which is comprised of previously recorded payments to settle product liability claims and related defense costs, is part of MSA LLC's insurance receivable. In addition to the claims decided by the jury, MSA LLC also presented a claim under Pennsylvania's bad faith statue, which is decided by the court. Following the jury verdict, the court also issued a verdict finding that North River had acted in bad faith. In December 2016 and January 2017, the Pennsylvania state court heard evidence regarding the extent of damages awardable as a result of the statutory bad faith claim. In an order dated February 9, 2017, the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County awarded MSA LLC an additional $46.9 million in damages related to this statutory bad faith claim. The $46.9 million award was comprised of $30.0 million in punitive damages, $11.8 million in attorneys' fees, and $5.1 million in pre-judgment interest, each of which is authorized by a Pennsylvania statute covering bad faith claims handling matters. The court will hear post-trial motions through mid-second quarter. In July 2010, MSA LLC (as Mine Safety Appliances Company) filed a lawsuit in the Superior Court of the State of Delaware seeking declaratory and other relief from the majority of its excess insurance carriers concerning the future rights and obligations of MSA LLC and its excess insurance carriers under various insurance policies. The reason for this insurance coverage action is to secure a comprehensive resolution of its rights under the insurance policies issued by the insurers. Trial is scheduled for April 2017. Through negotiated settlements, MSA LLC has resolved claims against certain of its insurance carriers on certain policies. When a settlement is reached, MSA LLC dismisses the settling carrier from the relevant above noted lawsuit(s). Assuming satisfactory resolution, once disputes are resolved with each of the remaining carriers, MSA LLC anticipates having commitments to provide future payment streams which should be sufficient to satisfy its presently recorded insurance receivables due from insurance carriers. We have determined that at some point in the next 18 months, even if insurance coverage litigation is generally successful, MSA LLC will become largely self-insured for costs associated with cumulative trauma product liability claims. The exact point when this transition will happen is difficult to predict and subject to a number of variables, including the pace at which future cumulative trauma product liability costs are incurred and the results of litigation and negotiations with insurance carriers. After it becomes largely self-insured, MSA LLC may still obtain some insurance reimbursement from negotiated coverage-in-place agreements (although that coverage may not be immediately triggered or accessible) or from other sources of coverage. The precise amount of insurance reimbursement available at that time cannot be determined with specificity at this time.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations On February 29, 2016, the Company sold 100% of the stock associated with its South African personal protective equipment distribution business and its Zambian operations, which were reported in the International segment. The Company received $15.9 million from the closing of this transaction and recorded a loss of approximately $0.3 million during the first quarter of 2016. During the second quarter of 2016, the Company corrected its gain calculation on the disposition of the South African personal protective equipment distribution business and its Zambian operations. This resulted in a gain of approximately $2.5 million being recorded during the second quarter in discontinued operations that should have been recorded in the first quarter of 2016. The Company evaluated materiality in accordance with SEC Staff Accounting Bulletins Topics 1.M and 1.N and considered relevant qualitative and quantitative factors. The Company concluded that this modification was not material to the first quarter of 2016 or the trend in earnings over the affected periods. The modification had no effect on cash flows or debt covenant compliance. The operations of this business qualify as a component of an entity under FASB ASC 205-20 "Presentation of Financial Statements - Discontinued Operations", and thus the operations have been reclassified as discontinued operations and prior periods have been reclassified to conform to this presentation. Summarized financial information for discontinued operations is as follows: Year ended December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Discontinued Operations Net sales $ 5,261 $ 43,043 $ 47,516 Other income, net 596 580 660 Cost and expenses: Cost of products sold 4,819 34,764 38,259 Selling, general and administrative 937 6,680 7,650 Restructuring and other charges — 14 — Currency exchange losses (gains), net 18 266 (116 ) Income from discontinued operations before income taxes 83 1,899 2,383 Provision for income taxes 328 574 607 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ (245 ) $ 1,325 $ 1,776 The following assets and liabilities are included in the balance sheet line items noted below and are included in the International Segment detail in Note 7. December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Discontinued Operations assets and liabilities Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts $ — $ 4,832 Inventories — 8,499 Net property — 449 Other assets — 791 Total assets — 14,571 Accounts payable — 2,745 Accrued and other liabilities 686 748 Total liabilities 686 3,493 Net (liabilities) assets $ (686 ) $ 11,078 The following summary provides financial information for discontinued operations related to net (income) loss related to noncontrolling interests: Year ended December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (Income) loss from continuing operations $ (1,416 ) $ 2,971 $ 1,296 Income from discontinued operations (510 ) (108 ) (717 ) Net (income) loss $ (1,926 ) $ 2,863 $ 579

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) 2016 Quarters Year (In thousands, except earnings per share) 1st (1) 2nd (1) 3rd 4th Continuing Operations: Net sales $ 279,268 $ 295,998 $ 278,233 $ 296,031 $ 1,149,530 Gross profit 120,705 135,855 128,762 138,321 523,643 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 12,683 29,306 25,486 25,216 92,691 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.34 0.78 0.68 0.67 2.47 Diluted 0.34 0.77 0.67 0.66 2.44 Discontinued Operations: Net sales 5,261 — — — 5,261 Gross profit 442 — — — 442 Net (loss) income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated (932 ) 1,777 (1,300 ) (300 ) (755 ) (Loss) earnings per share (2) Basic (0.03 ) 0.05 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) (0.02 ) Diluted (0.03 ) 0.05 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) (0.02 ) 2015 Quarters Year (In thousands, except earnings per share) 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Continuing Operations: Net sales $ 256,708 $ 287,011 $ 273,746 $ 313,318 $ 1,130,783 Gross profit 116,823 130,489 119,781 134,010 501,103 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 9,316 23,722 15,712 20,840 69,590 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.25 0.63 0.42 0.56 1.86 Diluted 0.25 0.62 0.41 0.55 1.84 Discontinued Operations: Net sales 11,157 11,384 11,648 8,854 43,043 Gross profit 2,167 2,326 2,170 1,616 8,279 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 366 576 264 11 1,217 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.01 0.02 0.01 — 0.03 Diluted 0.01 0.01 0.01 — 0.03 (1) During the second quarter of 2016, the Company corrected its gain calculation on the disposition of the South African personal protective equipment distribution business and its Zambian operations. This resulted in a gain of approximately $2.5 million being recorded during the second quarter in discontinued operations that should have been recorded in the first quarter of 2016. The Company evaluated materiality in accordance with SEC Staff Accounting Bulletins Topics 1.M and 1.N and considered relevant qualitative and quantitative factors. The Company concluded that this modification was not material to the first quarter of 2016 or the trend in earnings over the affected periods. The modification had no effect on cash flows or debt covenant compliance. (2) Per share amounts are calculated independently for each period presented; therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the per share amounts for the year.

Schedule II - Valuation and Qua

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Allowance for doubtful accounts: Balance at beginning of year $ 8,189 $ 7,821 $ 7,306 Additions— Charged to costs and expenses 1,471 1,676 1,249 Deductions— Deductions from reserves, net (1)(2) 4,050 1,308 734 Balance at end of year 5,610 8,189 7,821 Income tax valuation allowance: Balance at beginning of year $ 5,153 $ 3,763 $ 4,938 Additions— Charged to costs and expenses (3) 150 1,390 — Deductions— Deductions from reserves (3) — — 1,175 Balance at end of year $ 5,303 $ 5,153 $ 3,763 (1) Bad debts written off, net of recoveries. (2) Activity for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 includes currency translation (losses) of $(203) , $(535) and $(332) , respectively. (3) Activity for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 includes currency translation gains (losses) of $113 , $392 and $(643) , respectively.

Significant Accounting Polici31

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation— The Consolidated Financial Statements of MSA Safety Incorporated ("MSA" or "the Company") are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) and require management to make certain judgments, estimates, and assumptions. These may affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements. They also may affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates upon subsequent resolution of identified matters. Certain segment results in previously issued consolidated financial statements were recast to conform to the current period presentation. Refer to Note 7 for further information regarding MSA's segment allocation methodology.
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.
Noncontrolling Interests	Noncontrolling Interests— Noncontrolling interests reflect noncontrolling shareholders’ investments in certain consolidated subsidiaries and their proportionate share of the income and accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 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.
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash— Restricted cash, which is designated for use other than current operations, is included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Restricted cash balances were $1.2 million and $2.4 million at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. These balances were used to support letter of credit balances.
Inventories	Inventories— Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The majority of 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. It is the Company’s general policy to write-down any inventory that is identified as obsolete and any inventory that has aged or has not moved in more than twenty-four months .
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 other income and the cost and related depreciation are removed from the accounts. Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $27.0 million , $26.9 million and $26.2 million , respectively. Properties, plants, and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets is determined by comparing the estimated undiscounted net cash flows of the operations related to the assets to their carrying amount. An impairment loss would be recognized when the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the estimated undiscounted net cash flows. The amount of the impairment loss to be recorded is calculated as the excess of the carrying value of the assets over their fair value, with fair value determined using the best information available, which generally is a discounted cash flow model.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets— Intangible assets with a finite useful life are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful lives. Indefinite lived intangible assets are assessed for possible impairment annually or whenever circumstances change such that the recorded value of the asset may not be recoverable. Goodwill is not amortized, but is subject to impairment assessments. In the fourth quarter of each year, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist or if a decision is made to sell a business, we evaluate goodwill for impairment. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include a decline in expected cash flows, a significant adverse change in the business climate, unanticipated competition, slower growth rates, or negative developments in equity and credit markets, among others. All goodwill is assigned to and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment. For goodwill impairment testing purposes, we consider our operating segments to be our reporting units. The evaluation of impairment involves using either a qualitative or quantitative approach as outlined in Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 350. The qualitative evaluation is an assessment of factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, including goodwill. Factors considered as part of the qualitative assessment include entity-specific industry, market and general economic conditions. In 2016, we elected to bypass the qualitative evaluation for all of our reporting units and performed a two-step quantitative test at October 1, 2016. Step 1 of the quantitative testing involves comparing the estimated fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. We estimate reporting unit fair value using a weighted average of fair values determined by discounted cash flow (DCF) and market approach methodologies, as we believe both are equally important indicators of fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the application of the DCF model, including sales volumes and prices, costs to produce, tax rates, capital spending, discount rates, and working capital changes. Cash flow forecasts are generally based on approved business unit operating plans for the early years and historical relationships in later years. The betas used in calculating the individual reporting units’ weighted average cost of capital (WACC) rate are estimated for each reporting unit based on peer data. The market approach methodology measures value through an analysis of peer companies. The analysis entails measuring the multiples of EBITDA at which peer companies are trading. In the event the estimated fair value of a reporting unit per the weighted average of the DCF and market approach models is less than the carrying value, Step 2 of the analysis would be required. The additional analysis would compare the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill, which may involve the use of valuation specialist. The implied fair value of goodwill is the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. If the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value, an impairment loss equal to such excess would be recognized, which could significantly and adversely impact reported consolidated results of operations and shareholders’ equity. There has been no impairment of our goodwill as of December 31, 2016 , 2015 or 2014 .
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 distributor'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. 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 consolidated statements of income as currency exchange (income) loss in the current period.
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies— For asserted claims and assessments, liabilities are recorded when an unfavorable outcome of a matter is deemed to be probable and the loss is reasonably estimable. Management determines the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome based on many factors such as the nature of the matter, available defenses and case strategy, progress of the matter, views and opinions of legal counsel and other advisors, applicability and success of appeals processes, and the outcome of similar historical matters, among others. Once an unfavorable outcome is deemed probable, management weighs the probability of estimated losses, and the most reasonable loss estimate is recorded. If an unfavorable outcome of a matter is deemed to be reasonably possible, then the matter is disclosed and no liability is recorded. With respect to unasserted claims or assessments, management must first determine that the probability that an assertion will be made is likely, then, a determination as to the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to reasonably estimate the potential loss is made. Legal matters are reviewed on a continuous basis to determine if there has been a change in management’s judgment regarding the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome or the estimate of a potential loss. Please refer to Note 19 Contingencies for further details on product liability related matters.
Discontinued Operations and Assets Held For Sale	Discontinued Operations and Assets Held For Sale— For those businesses where management has committed to a plan to divest, each business is valued at the lower of its carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell. If the carrying amount of the business exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. Fair value is estimated using accepted valuation techniques such as a discounted cash flow model, valuations performed by third parties, earnings multiples, or indicative bids, when available. A number of significant estimates and assumptions are involved in the application of these techniques, including the forecasting of markets and market share, sales volumes and prices, costs and expenses, and multiple other factors. Management considers historical experience and all available information at the time the estimates are made; however, the fair value that is ultimately realized upon the divestiture of a business may differ from the estimated fair value reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements. Depreciation and amortization expense is not recorded on assets of a business to be divested once they are classified as held for sale. For businesses classified as discontinued operations, the results of operations are reclassified from their historical presentation to discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Income, for all periods presented. The gains or losses associated with these divested businesses are recorded in discontinued operations on the Consolidated Statement of Income. Additionally, segment information does not include the operating results of businesses classified as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Management does not expect any continuing involvement with these businesses following their divestiture, and these businesses are expected to be disposed of within one year.
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards— In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of an Entity . This ASU amends the definition of a discontinued operation to include a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2015. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we were to divest of a component that meets the definition of discontinued operations. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue with Contracts from Customers . This ASU establishes a single revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers based on recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services, eliminates industry specific requirements, and expands disclosure requirements. This ASU is required to be adopted beginning January 1, 2018. Our revenue streams include agreements with distributors, agreements with end users and agreements with governmental entities. The Company continues to evaluate the impact that the adoption of this ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements, including the timing of revenue recognition associated with certain customized products. We have conducted a risk assessment and have worked with outside consultants to develop a transition plan that will enable us to meet the implementation requirement. We are currently in the process of reviewing and analyzing contracts. We anticipate using the modified retrospective method of adoption and having enhanced disclosures surrounding revenue recognition. In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period . This ASU clarifies the accounting treatment for share based payment awards that contain performance targets. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern . This ASU clarifies management's responsibility to evaluate whether there is a substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern and provides guidance for related footnote disclosures. This ASU is effective for the annual period ending December 31, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-01, Income Statement - Extraordinary and Unusual Items . This ASU eliminates the requirement to separately present and disclose extraordinary and unusual items in the financial statements. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis . This ASU changes the analysis that an entity must perform to determine whether it should consolidate certain types of legal entities. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs . This ASU simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs and requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-15, Imputation of Interest - Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs . This ASU simplifies the presentation of debt issuance costs for line of credit arrangements. These ASUs were adopted on January 1, 2016. The Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2015 has been adjusted to apply the change in accounting principle retrospectively, which resulted in a decrease in Prepaid expenses and other current assets of $0.4 million , a decrease in Other noncurrent assets of $1.5 million , a decrease in the current portion of long-term debt, net of $17 thousand , and a decrease in long-term debt of $1.9 million as of December 31, 2015. There was no impact to the Statements of Consolidated Income as a result of the change in accounting principle. Prior year balances in Note 11 were also adjusted to conform with current year presentation. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-04, Retirement Benefits - Practical Expedient for the Measurement Date of an Employer's Defined Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets. This ASU allows entities with a fiscal year end that does not coincide with a month end to use the closest month end for measurement purposes. This ASU also allows entities that have a significant event in an interim period that calls for a remeasurement of defined benefit plan assets and obligations to use the month end date that is closest to the date of the significant event. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-05, Goodwill and Other Internal Use Software - Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement . This ASU clarifies when entities should account for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement as a software license or service contract. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016 and was implemented on a prospective basis. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. This ASU requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. This ASU applies to inventory measured using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost methods only. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2017. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-12, Plan Accounting: Defined Benefit Pension Plans (Topic 960), Defined Contribution Pension Plans (Topic 962), Health and Welfare Benefit Plans (Topic 965) . This ASU simplifies complexities within employee benefit plan accounting including Fully Benefit-Responsive Investment Contracts, Plan Investment Disclosures, and the Measurement Date Practical Expedient. This ASU was adopted on January 1, 2016. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-16, Simplifying the Accounting for Measurement-Period Adjustments . This ASU simplifies the accounting for adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination. The amendments in this Update eliminate the requirement to retrospectively account for those adjustments. MSA elected to early adopt this standard for the period ended December 31, 2015. The adoption of this ASU could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements to the extent that measurement-period adjustments for business combinations are identified. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases . This ASU requires lessees to record a right of use asset and a liability for virtually all leases. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2019. The Company continues to evaluate the impact that the adoption of this ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting . This ASU simplifies the accounting for many aspects associated with share-based payment accounting including income taxes and the use of forfeiture rates. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses. This ASU introduces an approach based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments including loans, held-to-maturity debt securities, loan commitments, financial guarantees and net investments in leases as well as reinsurance and trade receivables. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2020. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements and expects that adoption will result in increased disclosure. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-15, Classification of Certain Cash Payments and Cash Receipts. This ASU clarifies how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. This ASU will be effective beginning in 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Intra-entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory . This ASU states that an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 to be adopted on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Restricted Cash . This ASU requires that amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents are included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 to be adopted on a retrospective basis and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of these ASU will have on the consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-01, Business Combinations - Clarifying the Definition of a Business . This ASU provides further guidance for identifying whether a set of assets and activities is a business by providing a screen outlining that when substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired (or disposed of) is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. This ASU is effective beginning in 2018 and will be applied prospectively. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we have an acquisition or disposal that falls within this screen. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment . This ASU simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairments under Step 2 by eliminating the requirement to perform procedures to determine the fair value of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including previously unrecognized assets and liabilities, in order to determine the fair value of the goodwill and any impairment charge to be recognized. Under this ASU, the impairment charge to be recognized should be the amount by which the reporting unit's carrying value exceeds the reporting unit's fair value as calculated under Step 1 provided that the loss recognized should not exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. This ASU is effective beginning in 2019 for public entities and early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. The adoption of this ASU may have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements in the event that we determine that goodwill for any of our reporting units is impaired.

Restructuring and Other Charg32

Restructuring and Other Charges (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Related Costs	Activity and reserve balances for restructuring charges by segment were as follows: (in millions) Americas International Corporate Total Reserve balances at January 1, 2014 $ — $ 1.7 $ — $ 1.7 Restructuring charges 0.5 8.0 — 8.5 Asset disposals — (2.1 ) — (2.1 ) Cash payments (0.3 ) (5.0 ) — (5.3 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2014 $ 0.2 $ 2.6 $ — $ 2.8 Restructuring charges 3.3 7.4 1.6 12.3 Cash payments (1.9 ) (4.6 ) (0.5 ) (7.0 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2015 $ 1.6 $ 5.4 $ 1.1 $ 8.1 Restructuring charges 1.8 5.3 0.2 7.3 Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves (0.5 ) (0.6 ) (0.5 ) (1.6 ) Cash payments (2.0 ) (7.3 ) (0.5 ) (9.8 ) Reserve balances at December 31, 2016 $ 0.9 $ 2.8 $ 0.3 $ 4.0

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventories	The following table sets forth the components of inventory: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Finished products $ 54,348 $ 74,929 Work in process 6,542 8,979 Raw materials and supplies 84,069 85,643 Inventories at current cost 144,959 169,551 Less: LIFO valuation (41,893 ) (43,702 ) Total inventories $ 103,066 $ 125,849

Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, Plant, and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	The following table sets forth the components of property, plant and equipment: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Land $ 2,684 $ 2,929 Buildings 111,762 114,324 Machinery and equipment 361,010 345,064 Construction in progress 10,714 12,451 Total 486,170 474,768 Less accumulated depreciation (337,492 ) (318,929 ) Property, plant, and equipment, net $ 148,678 $ 155,839

Reclassifications Out of Accu35

Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	MSA Safety Incorporated Noncontrolling Interests (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Pension and other post-retirement benefits Balance at beginning of period $ (119,389 ) $ (125,570 ) $ (77,080 ) $ — $ — $ — Unrecognized net actuarial losses (12,473 ) (8,002 ) (84,495 ) — — — Unrecognized prior service credit (cost) 1,092 (604 ) 302 — — — Tax benefit 5,033 4,173 29,832 — — — Total other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax (6,348 ) (4,433 ) (54,361 ) — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss: Amortization of prior service cost (a) (427 ) (268 ) (251 ) — — — Recognized net actuarial losses (a) 11,989 16,215 9,114 — — — Tax benefit (3,893 ) (5,333 ) (2,992 ) — — — Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax 7,669 10,614 5,871 — — — Total other comprehensive income (loss) 1,321 6,181 (48,490 ) Balance at end of period $ (118,068 ) $ (119,389 ) $ (125,570 ) $ — $ — $ — Foreign currency translation Balance at beginning of period $ (88,810 ) $ (41,160 ) $ (1,189 ) $ (3,616 ) $ (2,199 ) $ (1,602 ) Reclassification into net income 2,500 (b) — — 770 (c) — — Foreign currency translation adjustments (25,868 ) (47,650 ) (39,971 ) 882 (1,417 ) (597 ) Balance at end of period $ (112,178 ) $ (88,810 ) $ (41,160 ) $ (1,964 ) $ (3,616 ) $ (2,199 )

Capital Stock (Tables)

Capital Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure Capital Stock Additional Information [Abstract]
Schedule Of Common Stock Activity	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, 2014 62,081,391 (303,668 ) (24,575,624 ) $ 132,055 $ (1,585 ) $ (279,772 ) Restricted stock awards — 72,291 13,936 (538 ) 377 161 Restricted stock expense — — — 4,372 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (4,078 ) (346 ) — — Stock options exercised — 150,962 39,781 5,678 788 460 Stock option expense — — — 2,355 — — Performance stock issued — 80,415 — (420 ) 420 — Performance stock expense — — — 2,705 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (33 ) — — Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 2,573 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (107,096 ) — — (5,654 ) Balances December 31, 2014 62,081,391 — (24,633,081 ) $ 148,401 $ — $ (284,805 ) Restricted stock awards — — 34,624 (404 ) — 404 Restricted stock expense — — — 3,461 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (18,468 ) (426 ) — — Stock options exercised — — 52,708 1,714 — 216 Stock option expense — — — 2,572 — — Stock option forfeitures — — — (118 ) — — Performance stock issued — — 52,839 (616 ) — 616 Performance stock expense — — — 2,265 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (155 ) — — Employee stock purchase plan — — 11,517 352 — 136 Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 597 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (59,056 ) — — (2,781 ) Share repurchase program — — (150,000 ) — — (7,104 ) Balances December 31, 2015 62,081,391 — (24,708,917 ) $ 157,643 $ — $ (293,318 ) Restricted stock awards — — 29,836 (355 ) — 355 Restricted stock expense — — — 3,604 — — Restricted stock forfeitures — — (2,800 ) (148 ) — — Stock options exercised — — 336,904 5,617 — 6,859 Stock option expense — — — 2,484 — — Stock option forfeitures — — — (25 ) — — Performance stock issued — — 31,093 (371 ) — 371 Performance stock expense — — — 3,324 — — Performance stock forfeitures — — — (28 ) — — Employee stock purchase plan — — 9,500 458 — 113 Tax benefit related to stock plans — — — 478 — — Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs — — (40,429 ) — — (1,881 ) Balances December 31, 2016 62,081,391 — (24,344,813 ) $ 172,681 $ — $ (287,501 )

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule Of Reportable Segment Information	Reportable segment information is presented in the following table: (In thousands) Americas International Corporate Reconciling Items (1) Consolidated Totals 2016 Sales to external customers $ 678,433 $ 471,097 $ — $ — $ 1,149,530 Intercompany sales 113,273 275,640 — (388,913 ) — Operating income 164,192 Restructuring and other charges 5,694 Currency exchange losses, net 766 Adjusted operating income (loss) 162,788 46,491 (38,627 ) — 170,652 Adjusted operating margin % 24.0 % 9.9 % Interest income 1,914 903 10 — 2,827 Interest expense — — 16,411 — 16,411 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 21,046 13,767 — — 34,813 Pension (income) expense (544 ) 6,876 — — 6,332 Income tax provision 37,838 12,830 8,778 (1,642 ) 57,804 Total Assets 836,243 505,278 10,903 1,496 1,353,920 Capital expenditures 16,306 9,217 — — 25,523 Net property 95,904 52,773 1 — 148,678 2015 Sales to external customers $ 704,754 $ 426,029 $ — $ — $ 1,130,783 Intercompany sales 134,185 225,358 — (359,543 ) — Operating income 122,741 Restructuring and other charges 12,258 Currency exchange losses, net 2,204 Adjusted operating income (loss) 141,971 33,501 (38,269 ) — 137,203 Adjusted operating margin % 20.1 % 7.9 % Interest income 1,183 336 6 — 1,525 Interest expense — — 10,854 — 10,854 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 21,180 11,500 — — 32,680 Pension expense 3,759 8,196 — — 11,955 Income tax provision 50,751 13,706 (20,108 ) 58 44,407 Total Assets 873,045 532,960 16,362 496 1,422,863 Capital expenditures 22,568 13,673 — — 36,241 Net property 97,021 58,817 1 — 155,839 2014 Sales to external customers $ 663,655 $ 470,230 $ — $ — $ 1,133,885 Intercompany sales 117,681 131,477 — (249,158 ) — Operating income 134,281 Restructuring and other charges 8,515 Currency exchange losses, net 1,509 Adjusted operating income (loss) 134,819 46,847 (37,361 ) — 144,305 Adjusted operating margin % 20.3 % 10.0 % Interest income 1,450 367 5 — 1,822 Interest expense — — 9,851 — 9,851 Noncash items: Depreciation and amortization 20,145 9,617 — — 29,762 Pension (income) expense (1,977 ) 6,813 — — 4,836 Income tax provision 49,014 8,633 (15,972 ) (631 ) 41,044 Total Assets 883,131 359,557 20,867 (143 ) 1,263,412 Capital expenditures 20,268 13,315 — — 33,583 Net property 95,933 55,418 1 — 151,352
Schedule Of Geographic Information On Sales To External Customers, Based On Country Of Origin	Geographic information on sales to external customers, based on country of origin: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 580,724 $ 593,539 $ 530,845 Other 568,806 537,244 603,040 Total $ 1,149,530 $ 1,130,783 $ 1,133,885
Schedule Of Geographic Information On Net Property, Based On Country Of Origin	Geographic information on net property, based on country of origin: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 United States $ 84,675 $ 88,368 $ 85,247 China 11,732 13,504 15,128 Germany 7,919 7,596 17,654 Other 44,352 46,371 33,323 Total $ 148,678 $ 155,839 $ 151,352
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services	The percentage of total sales by product group were as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Breathing Apparatus 26 % 27 % 19 % Fixed Gas and Flame Detection 21 % 21 % 23 % Portable Gas Detection 12 % 13 % 15 % Head Protection 10 % 11 % 13 % Fall Protection 8 % 5 % 4 % Fire & Rescue Helmets 5 % 5 % 5 % Other 18 % 18 % 21 %

Earnings per Share (Tables)

Earnings per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule Of Earnings Per Share	(In thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 2014 Net income attributable to continuing operations $ 92,691 $ 69,590 $ 87,447 Preferred stock dividends (42 ) (41 ) (41 ) Income from continuing operations available to common equity 92,649 69,549 87,406 Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities (144 ) (192 ) (546 ) Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders 92,505 69,357 86,860 Net (loss) income attributable to discontinued operations $ (755 ) $ 1,217 $ 1,059 Preferred stock dividends — (1 ) (1 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations available to common equity (755 ) 1,216 1,058 Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities 1 (3 ) (7 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations available to common shareholders (754 ) 1,213 1,051 Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 37,456 37,293 37,138 Stock options and other stock compensation 530 417 590 Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 37,986 37,710 37,728 Antidilutive stock options — 658 — Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations: Basic $2.47 $1.86 $2.34 Diluted $2.44 $1.84 $2.30 (Loss) earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations: Basic $(0.02) $0.03 $0.03 Diluted $(0.02) $0.03 $0.03

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components Of Income Before Income Taxes	(In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Components of income before income taxes* U.S. income $ 100,382 $ 71,547 $ 58,209 Non-U.S. income 51,529 39,479 68,986 Income before income taxes 151,911 111,026 127,195 Provision for income taxes* Current Federal $ 19,968 $ 21,253 $ 23,659 State 2,231 2,389 1,349 Non-U.S. 21,188 22,979 21,101 Total current provision 43,387 46,621 46,109 Deferred Federal $ 11,580 $ 3,813 $ (3,650 ) State 1,977 (213 ) 317 Non-U.S. 860 (5,814 ) (1,732 ) Total deferred provision 14,417 (2,214 ) (5,065 ) Provision for income taxes $ 57,804 $ 44,407 $ 41,044 *The components of income before income taxes and the provision for income taxes relate to continuing operations.
Reconciliation Of U.S. Federal Income Tax Rates To Effective Tax Rate	Reconciliation of the U.S. federal income tax rates for continuing operations to our effective tax rate: 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % Taxes on non-U.S. income - European reorganization 4.3 6.9 — State income taxes—U.S. 1.8 1.3 0.8 Valuation allowances 1.5 1.7 (0.6 ) Taxes on non-U.S. income (2.5 ) (2.1 ) (2.2 ) Manufacturing deduction credit (1.3 ) (1.6 ) (1.0 ) Research and development credit (0.6 ) (1.1 ) (0.7 ) Other (0.1 ) (0.1 ) 1.0 Effective income tax rate 38.1 % 40.0 % 32.3 %
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Components of deferred tax assets and liabilities: December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets Accrued expenses and other reserves $ 5,381 $ 4,412 Product liability 1,303 6,116 Employee benefits 9,538 9,387 Share-based compensation 10,462 10,323 Reserve for doubtful accounts 1,178 2,279 Inventory 1,218 2,496 Capitalized research and development 4,654 5,339 Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards 16,218 15,310 Other 1,316 2,892 Total deferred tax assets 51,268 58,554 Valuation allowances (5,303 ) (5,153 ) Net deferred tax assets 45,965 53,401 Deferred tax liabilities Goodwill and intangibles (42,007 ) (42,867 ) Property, plant and equipment (11,394 ) (8,920 ) Other (3,368 ) (31 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (56,769 ) (51,818 ) Net deferred taxes $ (10,804 ) $ 1,583
Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Change In Tax Liability For Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A reconciliation of the change in the tax liability for unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ 13,070 $ 9,857 Adjustments for tax positions related to the current year 2,359 8,203 Adjustments for tax positions related to prior years (856 ) (4,887 ) Statute expiration (180 ) (103 ) Ending balance $ 14,393 $ 13,070

Stock Plans (Tables)

Stock Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense	Stock-based compensation expense was as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock $ 3,456 $ 3,035 $ 4,026 Stock options 2,459 2,454 2,355 Performance stock 3,296 2,110 2,672 Total compensation expense before income taxes 9,211 7,599 9,053 Income tax benefit 3,375 2,896 3,293 Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit $ 5,836 $ 4,703 $ 5,760
Schedule Of Fair Value Weighted Average Assumptions For Options Granted	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 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . 2016 2015 2014 Fair value per option $ 11.69 $ 15.63 $ 17.26 Risk-free interest rate 1.6 % 1.8 % 2.1 % Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.4 % Expected volatility 34 % 39 % 41 % Expected life (years) 7.0 6.7 6.6
Summary Of Option Activity	A summary of option activity follows: Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable at Year-end Outstanding January 1, 2014 1,695,380 $ 34.55 Granted 138,519 51.69 Exercised (190,743 ) 36.31 Expired (1,071 ) 45.68 Forfeited (23,524 ) 38.82 Outstanding December 31, 2014 1,618,561 35.74 1,147,712 Granted 170,683 48.64 Exercised (64,752 ) 38.59 Expired (1,109 ) 44.36 Forfeited (28,708 ) 49.71 Outstanding December 31, 2015 1,694,675 36.69 1,280,665 Granted 235,233 44.50 Exercised (341,063 ) 37.34 Forfeited (12,753 ) 46.11 Outstanding December 31, 2016 1,576,092 $ 37.63 1,098,615
Characteristics of Outstanding and Exercisable Stock Options	For various exercise price ranges, characteristics of outstanding and exercisable stock options at December 31, 2016 were as follows: Stock Options Outstanding Range of Exercise Prices Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Remaining Life $17.83 – $33.00 456,938 $ 21.66 2.64 $33.01 – $45.00 566,173 39.60 6.06 $45.01 – $51.69 552,981 48.82 5.69 $17.83 – $51.69 1,576,092 $ 37.63 4.94 Stock Options Exercisable Range of Exercise Prices Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Remaining Life $17.83 – $33.00 456,938 $ 21.66 2.64 $33.01 – $45.00 346,157 36.49 4.09 $45.01 – $51.69 295,520 47.84 3.91 $17.83 – $51.69 1,098,615 $ 33.37 3.44
Summary of Restricted Stock and Unit Activity	A summary of restricted stock and unit activity follows: Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at January 1, 2014 303,419 $ 39.79 Granted 83,543 51.91 Vested (108,245 ) 34.94 Forfeited (9,974 ) 44.42 Unvested at December 31, 2014 268,743 45.34 Granted 83,725 48.06 Vested (111,834 ) 39.01 Forfeited (22,925 ) 45.84 Unvested at December 31, 2015 217,709 49.70 Granted 107,465 50.65 Vested (76,568 ) 49.12 Forfeited (14,014 ) 48.23 Unvested at December 31, 2016 234,592 $ 49.76
Summary of Performance Stock Unit Activity	A summary of performance stock unit activity follows: Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at January 1, 2014 149,389 $ 46.32 Granted 46,242 57.42 Vested (91,696 ) 39.19 Performance adjustments 41,428 39.42 Forfeited (1,402 ) 48.85 Unvested at December 31, 2014 143,961 52.42 Granted 87,256 41.99 Vested (66,200 ) 41.75 Performance adjustments 16,447 41.45 Forfeited (9,820 ) 51.51 Unvested at December 31, 2015 171,644 50.24 Granted 65,355 44.28 Vested (31,181 ) 58.54 Performance adjustments (15,594 ) 58.54 Forfeited (3,603 ) 44.47 Unvested at December 31, 2016 186,621 $ 46.18

Short and Long-Term Debt (Table

Short and Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Outstanding Debt	December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2006 Senior Notes payable through 2021, 5.41%, net of debt issuance costs $ 33,333 $ 39,999 2010 Senior Notes payable through 2021, 4.00%, net of debt issuance costs 100,000 100,000 2016 Senior Notes payable through 2031, 3.40%, net of debt issuance costs 67,713 — Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2020, net of debt issuance costs 189,456 324,673 Total 390,502 464,672 Amounts due within one year 26,666 6,650 Long-term debt $ 363,836 $ 458,022

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes In Goodwill	Changes in goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Net balance at January 1 $ 340,338 $ 252,520 Additions (Note 13) 10,485 97,959 Disposal (338 ) — Currency translation (17,209 ) (10,141 ) Net balance at December 31 $ 333,276 $ 340,338
Changes In Intangible Assets, Net Of Accumulated Amortization	Changes in intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization, during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Net balance at January 1 $ 90,068 $ 31,323 Additions (Note 13) 4,420 67,645 Amortization expense (7,885 ) (4,811 ) Impairment losses (Note 15) — (723 ) Currency translation (9,588 ) (3,366 ) Net balance at December 31 $ 77,015 $ 90,068 (In millions) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 Intangible Assets: Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization and Reserves Net Carrying Amount Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization and Reserves Net Carrying Amount Customer relationships 14 $ 45.5 $ (3.6 ) $ 41.9 $ 50.5 $ (0.7 ) $ 49.8 Distribution agreements 20 25.2 (8.0 ) 17.2 24.6 (6.2 ) 18.4 Technology related assets 10 18.0 (10.3 ) 7.7 17.5 (8.3 ) 9.2 Patents, trademarks and copyrights 14 17.0 (7.1 ) 9.9 16.5 (4.6 ) 11.9 License agreements 5 5.3 (5.3 ) — 5.4 (5.3 ) 0.1 Other 2 2.6 (2.3 ) 0.3 3.9 (3.2 ) 0.7 Total 14 $ 113.6 $ (36.6 ) $ 77.0 $ 118.4 $ (28.3 ) $ 90.1

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Preliminary Fair Values of the Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the Senscient assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition: (In millions) September 19, 2016 Current assets (including cash of $0.7 million) $ 5.9 Property, plant and equipment and other noncurrent assets 0.3 Acquired technology 1.6 Customer-related intangibles 2.8 Goodwill 10.5 Total assets acquired 21.1 Total liabilities assumed 2.0 Net assets acquired $ 19.1 The following table summarizes the preliminary fair values of the Latchways assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition: (In millions) October 21, 2015 Current assets (including cash of $10.6 million) $ 35.7 Property, plant and equipment 9.5 Trade name and acquired technology 14.6 Customer-related intangibles 53.0 Goodwill 98.0 Total assets acquired 210.8 Total liabilities assumed 19.9 Net assets acquired $ 190.9
Pro Forma Financial Information (Unaudited)	(In millions, except per share amounts) 2016 2015 Net sales $ 1,153 $ 1,175 Income from continuing operations 93 75 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations 2.48 2.00 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations 2.44 1.98

Pensions and Other Post-retir44

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Defined Benefit Pension Plans And Other Postretirement Benefits Plan	Information pertaining to defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement benefits plans is provided in the following table: Pension Benefits Other Benefits (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Change in Benefit Obligations Benefit obligations at January 1 $ 491,180 $ 519,194 $ 22,974 $ 26,851 Service cost 10,417 11,517 426 444 Interest cost 18,752 18,314 946 863 Participant contributions 100 105 222 255 Plan amendments (1,092 ) 604 (400 ) — Actuarial (gains) losses 9,123 (21,073 ) 1,285 (3,998 ) Benefits paid (19,550 ) (19,261 ) (1,773 ) (1,441 ) Curtailments (163 ) — — — Settlements (381 ) (2,094 ) — — Currency translation (4,389 ) (16,126 ) — — Benefit obligations at December 31 503,997 491,180 23,680 22,974 Change in Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets at January 1 419,088 445,299 — — Actual return on plan assets 31,418 (4,754 ) — — Employer contributions 3,878 4,058 1,551 1,186 Participant contributions 100 105 222 255 Settlements (381 ) (2,094 ) — — Benefits paid (19,550 ) (16,979 ) (1,773 ) (1,441 ) Reimbursement of German benefits — (2,282 ) — — Administrative Expenses Paid — 6 — — Currency translation (1,291 ) (4,271 ) — — Fair value of plan assets at December 31 433,262 419,088 — — Funded Status Funded status at December 31 (70,735 ) (72,092 ) (23,680 ) (22,974 ) Unrecognized transition losses 8 12 — — Unrecognized prior service (credit) cost (646 ) 525 (1,505 ) (1,524 ) Unrecognized net actuarial losses 187,738 188,531 3,643 2,117 Net amount recognized 116,365 116,976 (21,542 ) (22,381 ) Amounts Recognized in the Balance Sheet Noncurrent assets 62,916 62,072 — — Current liabilities (4,620 ) (5,033 ) (1,638 ) (1,382 ) Noncurrent liabilities (129,031 ) (129,131 ) (22,042 ) (21,592 ) Net amount recognized (70,735 ) (72,092 ) (23,680 ) (22,974 ) Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Net actuarial losses 187,738 188,531 3,643 2,425 Prior service (credit) cost (646 ) 525 (1,505 ) (1,523 ) Unrecognized net initial obligation 8 12 — — Total (before tax effects) 187,100 189,068 2,138 902 Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans 465,448 453,382 — —
Components Of Net Periodic Benefit (Credit) Cost	Pension Benefits Other Benefits (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Service cost $ 10,417 $ 11,517 $ 9,425 $ 426 $ 444 $ 538 Interest cost 18,752 18,314 19,340 946 863 1,107 Expected return on plan assets (34,751 ) (34,130 ) (32,944 ) — — — Amortization of transition amounts 2 2 2 — — — Amortization of prior service (credit) cost (14 ) 66 84 (419 ) (335 ) (335 ) Recognized net actuarial losses 11,921 15,545 8,639 68 27 182 Settlement loss 5 641 290 — — — Termination benefits — — — — — — Net periodic benefit cost $ 6,332 $ 11,955 $ 4,836 $ 1,021 $ 999 $ 1,492
Schedule Of Amounts Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected To Be Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Costs	Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized in 2017 net periodic benefit costs. (In thousands) Pension Benefits Other Benefits Loss recognition $ 12,255 $ 103 Prior service credit recognition (15 ) (288 ) Transition obligation recognition 1 —
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]	Information for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets. (In thousands) 2016 2015 Aggregate accumulated benefit obligations (ABO) $ 147,531 $ 147,864 Aggregate projected benefit obligations (PBO) 160,543 161,009 Aggregate fair value of plan assets 26,986 26,844
Schedule Of Assumptions Used To Determine Benefit Obligations And Net Periodic Benefit Cost	Pension Benefits Other Benefits 2016 2015 2016 2015 Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations Average discount rate 3.67 % 3.92 % 4.05 % 4.20 % Rate of compensation increase 2.99 % 3.06 % — — Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost Average discount rate 3.92 % 3.63 % 4.20 % 3.85 % Expected return on plan assets 8.18 % 8.17 % — — Rate of compensation increase 3.06 % 3.03 % — —
Schedule Of Expected Return On Assets For Net Periodic Pension Cost	Pension Plan Assets at December 31, 2016 2015 Equity securities 70 % 67 % Fixed income securities 20 24 Pooled investment funds 5 5 Insurance contracts 4 3 Cash and cash equivalents 1 1 Total 100 % 100 %
Summary Of Pension Plan Assets Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis By Fair Value Hierarchy	The following table summarizes our pension plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis by fair value hierarchy level (See Note 18): December 31, 2016 (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 $ 242,161 $ 62,299 $ — $ 304,460 Fixed income securities 25,109 62,667 — 87,776 Pooled investment funds — 20,156 — 20,156 Insurance contracts — — 14,948 14,948 Cash and cash equivalents 5,922 — — 5,922 Total $ 273,192 $ 145,122 $ 14,948 $ 433,262 December 31, 2015 (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 $ 225,191 $ 55,428 $ — $ 280,619 Fixed income securities 29,903 70,164 — 100,067 Pooled investment funds — 19,345 — 19,345 Insurance contracts — — 13,681 13,681 Cash and cash equivalents 5,376 — — 5,376 Total $ 260,470 $ 144,937 $ 13,681 $ 419,088
Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Level 3 Assets	The following table presents a reconciliation of Level 3 assets: (In thousands) Insurance Contracts Other Balance January 1, 2015 $ 15,069 $ 753 Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings (1,526 ) (64 ) Net purchases, issuances and settlements 138 (184 ) Transfers out of Level 3 — (505 ) Balance December 31, 2015 13,681 — Net realized and unrealized gains included in earnings 975 — Net purchases, issuances and settlements 292 — Transfers out of Level 3 — — Balance December 31, 2016 $ 14,948 $ —

Other Income (Loss), Net (Table

Other Income (Loss), Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Income (Loss), Net	(In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Interest income $ 2,827 $ 1,525 $ 1,822 Gain on asset dispositions, net 593 1,724 2,094 Other, net 710 836 (1,101 ) Disposal of non-core product lines — (4,223 ) — Impairment of intangible assets — (723 ) — Land impairment loss — — (50 ) Total other income (loss), net $ 4,130 $ (861 ) $ 2,765

Derivative Financial Instrume46

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance Sheet Location And Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Associated With Derivative Financial Instruments	The following table presents the balance sheet location and fair value of assets and liabilities associated with derivative financial instruments. December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts: other current liabilities $ 258 $ 581 Foreign exchange contracts: other current assets 566 401
Income Statement Location and Impact of Derivative Financial Instruments	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, 2016 2015 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign exchange contracts Currency exchange loss $ 6,675 $ 2,187

Contingencies (Tables)

Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Claims Activity	A summary of cumulative trauma product liability lawsuit and pending claims activity follows: 2016 2015 2014 Open lawsuits, January 1 1,988 2,326 2,840 New lawsuits 379 340 542 Settled and dismissed lawsuits (573 ) (678 ) (1,056 ) Open lawsuits, December 31 1,794 1,988 2,326 2016 2015 2014 Pending claims, January 1 3,779 5,539 8,941 New claims 843 465 542 Settled and dismissed claims (1,599 ) (2,225 ) (3,944 ) Pending claims, December 31 3,023 3,779 5,539
Summary of Insurance Receivable Balances and Activity Related to Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Losses	(In millions) 2016 2015 2014 Balance beginning of period $ 229.5 $ 220.5 $ 124.8 Additions 29.2 17.3 98.2 Collections and settlements converted to notes receivable (98.8 ) (8.3 ) (2.5 ) Balance end of period $ 159.9 $ 229.5 $ 220.5
Summary of Notes Receivable from Insurance Companies Activity During the Year [Table Text Block]	A summary of notes receivable balances from insurance companies is as follows: (In millions) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Balance beginning of period $ 8.7 $ 16.2 Additions 95.6 0.5 Collections (37.0 ) (8.0 ) Balance end of period $ 67.3 $ 8.7

Discontinued Operations (Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of Discontinued Operations	Summarized financial information for discontinued operations is as follows: Year ended December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Discontinued Operations Net sales $ 5,261 $ 43,043 $ 47,516 Other income, net 596 580 660 Cost and expenses: Cost of products sold 4,819 34,764 38,259 Selling, general and administrative 937 6,680 7,650 Restructuring and other charges — 14 — Currency exchange losses (gains), net 18 266 (116 ) Income from discontinued operations before income taxes 83 1,899 2,383 Provision for income taxes 328 574 607 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax $ (245 ) $ 1,325 $ 1,776 The following assets and liabilities are included in the balance sheet line items noted below and are included in the International Segment detail in Note 7. December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 Discontinued Operations assets and liabilities Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts $ — $ 4,832 Inventories — 8,499 Net property — 449 Other assets — 791 Total assets — 14,571 Accounts payable — 2,745 Accrued and other liabilities 686 748 Total liabilities 686 3,493 Net (liabilities) assets $ (686 ) $ 11,078 The following summary provides financial information for discontinued operations related to net (income) loss related to noncontrolling interests: Year ended December 31, (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (Income) loss from continuing operations $ (1,416 ) $ 2,971 $ 1,296 Income from discontinued operations (510 ) (108 ) (717 ) Net (income) loss $ (1,926 ) $ 2,863 $ 579

Quarterly Financial Informati49

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information	2016 Quarters Year (In thousands, except earnings per share) 1st (1) 2nd (1) 3rd 4th Continuing Operations: Net sales $ 279,268 $ 295,998 $ 278,233 $ 296,031 $ 1,149,530 Gross profit 120,705 135,855 128,762 138,321 523,643 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 12,683 29,306 25,486 25,216 92,691 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.34 0.78 0.68 0.67 2.47 Diluted 0.34 0.77 0.67 0.66 2.44 Discontinued Operations: Net sales 5,261 — — — 5,261 Gross profit 442 — — — 442 Net (loss) income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated (932 ) 1,777 (1,300 ) (300 ) (755 ) (Loss) earnings per share (2) Basic (0.03 ) 0.05 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) (0.02 ) Diluted (0.03 ) 0.05 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) (0.02 ) 2015 Quarters Year (In thousands, except earnings per share) 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Continuing Operations: Net sales $ 256,708 $ 287,011 $ 273,746 $ 313,318 $ 1,130,783 Gross profit 116,823 130,489 119,781 134,010 501,103 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 9,316 23,722 15,712 20,840 69,590 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.25 0.63 0.42 0.56 1.86 Diluted 0.25 0.62 0.41 0.55 1.84 Discontinued Operations: Net sales 11,157 11,384 11,648 8,854 43,043 Gross profit 2,167 2,326 2,170 1,616 8,279 Net income attributable to MSA Safety Incorporated 366 576 264 11 1,217 Earnings per share (2) Basic 0.01 0.02 0.01 — 0.03 Diluted 0.01 0.01 0.01 — 0.03 (1) During the second quarter of 2016, the Company corrected its gain calculation on the disposition of the South African personal protective equipment distribution business and its Zambian operations. This resulted in a gain of approximately $2.5 million being recorded during the second quarter in discontinued operations that should have been recorded in the first quarter of 2016. The Company evaluated materiality in accordance with SEC Staff Accounting Bulletins Topics 1.M and 1.N and considered relevant qualitative and quantitative factors. The Company concluded that this modification was not material to the first quarter of 2016 or the trend in earnings over the affected periods. The modification had no effect on cash flows or debt covenant compliance. (2) Per share amounts are calculated independently for each period presented; therefore, the sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the per share amounts for the year.

Significant Accounting Polici50

Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	$ 1,200,000	2,400,000
Period for inventory write-down	24 months
Depreciation expense	$ 27,000,000	26,900,000	$ 26,200,000
Buildings | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful lives	20 years
Buildings | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful lives	40 years
Machinery and equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful lives	3 years
Machinery and equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful lives	10 years
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Debt Issuance Costs, Net		400,000
Other Noncurrent Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Debt Issuance Costs, Net		1,500,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Debt Issuance Costs, Net		17,000
Long-term Debt
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Debt Issuance Costs, Net		$ 1,900,000

Restructuring and Other Charg51

Restructuring and Other Charges - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 5,694	$ 12,258	$ 8,515
Number of employees who accepted the VRIP	83
Restructuring Charges before Adjustments	$ 7,300
International
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	5,300	7,400	8,000
Americas
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	1,800	3,300	500
Corporate
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	200	$ 1,600	0
Special termination benefits
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Non-cash special termination benefit expense	11,500
Staff Reductions
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 5,700
Reduction in headcount	179	216
Staff Reductions | International
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 5,300	$ 7,400	$ 8,000
Reduction in headcount	75	134
Staff Reductions | Americas
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 1,800	$ 3,300
Reduction in headcount	103	70
Staff Reductions | Corporate
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		$ 1,600
Reduction in headcount	1	12

Restructuring and Other Charg52

Restructuring and Other Charges - Roll Forward (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring reserve, beginning balance	$ 8,100	$ 2,800	$ 1,700
Restructuring charges	5,694	12,258	8,515
Asset disposals			(2,100)
Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves			(1,600)
Cash payments	(9,800)	(7,000)	(5,300)
Restructuring reserve, ending balance	4,000	8,100	2,800
Americas
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring reserve, beginning balance	1,600	200	0
Restructuring charges	1,800	3,300	500
Asset disposals			0
Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves	(500)
Cash payments	(2,000)	(1,900)	(300)
Restructuring reserve, ending balance	900	1,600	200
International
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring reserve, beginning balance	5,400	2,600	1,700
Restructuring charges	5,300	7,400	8,000
Asset disposals			(2,100)
Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves		(600)
Cash payments	(7,300)	(4,600)	(5,000)
Restructuring reserve, ending balance	2,800	5,400	2,600
Corporate
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring reserve, beginning balance	1,100	0	0
Restructuring charges	200	1,600	0
Asset disposals			0
Adjustments to estimates on restructuring reserves			(500)
Cash payments	(500)	(500)	0
Restructuring reserve, ending balance	$ 300	$ 1,100	$ 0

Inventories - Schedule of Inven

Inventories - Schedule of Inventories (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished products	$ 54,348	$ 74,929
Work in process	6,542	8,979
Raw materials and supplies	84,069	85,643
Inventories at current cost	144,959	169,551
Less: LIFO valuation	(41,893)	(43,702)
Total inventories	$ 103,066	$ 125,849

Inventories - Additional Inform

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory [Line Items]
Percentage of LIFO inventories on total inventories	25.00%	23.00%
Increase in income due to effect of liquidations	$ 0.2	$ 0.9
Cost of Sales
Inventory [Line Items]
Increase in income due to effect of liquidations	$ 0.3	$ 1.4

Property, Plant, and Equipmen55

Property, Plant, and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total	$ 486,170	$ 474,768
Less accumulated depreciation	(337,492)	(318,929)
Property, plant, and equipment, net	148,678	155,839	$ 151,352
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total	2,684	2,929
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total	111,762	114,324
Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total	361,010	345,064
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total	$ 10,714	$ 12,451

Reclassifications Out of Accu56

Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 517,128
Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	3,270	$ 0	$ 0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(20,395)	(42,886)	(89,058)
Balance at end of period	561,212	517,128
(Loss) income from discontinued operations	245	(1,325)	(1,776)
Gain included in Currency exchange losses, net	(766)	(2,204)	(1,509)
MSA Safety Incorporated - Pension and other post-retirement benefits
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	(119,389)	(125,570)	(77,080)
Tax benefit	5,033	4,173	29,832
Total other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	(6,348)	(4,433)	(54,361)
Tax benefit	(3,893)	(5,333)	(2,992)
Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	7,669	10,614	5,871
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,321	6,181	(48,490)
Balance at end of period	(118,068)	(119,389)	(125,570)
MSA Safety Incorporated - Net actuarial (losses) gains
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized net actuarial losses/prior service credit (cost)	(12,473)	(8,002)	(84,495)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	11,989	16,215	9,114
MSA Safety Incorporated - Prior service (cost) credit
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized net actuarial losses/prior service credit (cost)	1,092	(604)	302
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	(427)	(268)	(251)
MSA Safety Incorporated - Foreign currency translation
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	(88,810)	(41,160)	(1,189)
Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(2,500)	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(25,868)	(47,650)	(39,971)
Balance at end of period	(112,178)	(88,810)	(41,160)
(Loss) income from discontinued operations	3,400
Gain included in Currency exchange losses, net	900
Noncontrolling Interests - Pension and other post-retirement benefits
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	0	0	0
Tax benefit	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax	0	0	0
Tax benefit	0	0	0
Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	0	0	0
Balance at end of period	0	0	0
Noncontrolling Interests - Net actuarial (losses) gains
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized net actuarial losses/prior service credit (cost)	0	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0	0
Noncontrolling Interests - Prior service credit (cost)
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Unrecognized net actuarial losses/prior service credit (cost)	0	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0	0
Noncontrolling Interests - Foreign currency translation
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	(3,616)	(2,199)	(1,602)
Total amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(770)	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	882	(1,417)	(597)
Balance at end of period	$ (1,964)	$ (3,616)	$ (2,199)

Capital Stock - Additional Info

Capital Stock - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Preferred stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 50	$ 50
Cumulative preferred nonvoting stock (as a percent)	4.50%	4.50%
Preferred stock included in Treasury shares at cost line of the Consolidated Balance Sheet	$ 289,254,000	$ 295,070,000
Common stock, shares authorized	180,000,000	180,000,000
Common stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0
Common stock, shares outstanding	37,736,578	37,372,474
4 1/2% Cumulative Preferred Nonvoting Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	100,000
Preferred stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 50
Cumulative preferred nonvoting stock (as a percent)	4.50%
Preferred stock, callable price per share (dollars per share)	$ 52.50
Preferred stock, shares issued	71,340
Shares held in treasury (in shares)	52,878
Preferred stock repurchased and subsequently canceled (in shares)	33
Preferred stock included in Treasury shares at cost line of the Consolidated Balance Sheet	$ 1,800,000
Treasury purchases (in shares)		0	0
Second Cumulative Preferred Voting Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized	1,000,000
Preferred stock, par value (dollars per share)	$ 10
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Treasury purchases (in shares)	0	0	0
Common stock, shares outstanding	62,081,391	62,081,391	62,081,391	62,081,391
Treasury Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Treasury purchases (in shares)	40,429	59,056	107,096
Common stock, shares outstanding	24,344,813	24,708,917	24,633,081	24,575,624
Share Repurchase Program, May 2015 | Common Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Treasury purchases (in shares)	0	0
Stock repurchased program, authorized amount (up to)	$ 100,000,000
Share Repurchase Program, May 2015 | Treasury Stock
Capital Unit [Line Items]
Treasury purchases (in shares)		150,000

Capital Stock - Summary of Comm

Capital Stock - Summary of Common Stock Activity (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balances (in shares)	(37,372,474)
Stock options exercised (in shares)	341,063	64,752	190,743
Ending Balances (in shares)	(37,736,578)	(37,372,474)
Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balances (in shares)	(62,081,391)	(62,081,391)	(62,081,391)
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)	0	0	0
Ending Balances (in shares)	(62,081,391)	(62,081,391)	(62,081,391)
Beginning Balances	$ (157,643)	$ (148,401)	$ (132,055)
Tax benefit related to stock plans	478	597	2,573
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs	0	0	0
Ending Balances	$ (172,681)	$ (157,643)	$ (148,401)
Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balances (in shares)	0	0	(303,668)
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)	0	0	0
Ending Balances (in shares)	0	0	0
Beginning Balances	$ 0	$ 0	$ (1,585)
Tax benefit related to stock plans	0	0	0
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs	0	0	0
Ending Balances	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balances (in shares)	(24,708,917)	(24,633,081)	(24,575,624)
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)	(40,429)	(59,056)	(107,096)
Ending Balances (in shares)	(24,344,813)	(24,708,917)	(24,633,081)
Beginning Balances	$ (293,318)	$ (284,805)	$ (279,772)
Tax benefit related to stock plans	0	0	0
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs	(1,881)	(2,781)	(5,654)
Ending Balances	$ (287,501)	$ (293,318)	(284,805)
Restricted Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock awards			$ (161)
Restricted Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock awards (in shares)	0	0	0
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards	$ (355)	$ (404)	$ (538)
Share-based compensation expense	3,604	3,461	4,372
Restricted stock forfeitures	$ (148)	$ (426)	$ (346)
Restricted Stock | Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock awards (in shares)	0	0	72,291
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0	0
Restricted stock awards	$ 0	$ 0	$ (377)
Share-based compensation expense	0	0	0
Restricted stock forfeitures	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted Stock | Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock awards (in shares)	29,836	34,624	13,936
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	(2,800)	(18,468)	(4,078)
Restricted stock awards	$ (355)	$ (404)
Share-based compensation expense	0	0	$ 0
Restricted stock forfeitures	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Stock Options | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0
Stock options exercised (in shares)	0	0	0
Share-based compensation expense	$ 2,484	$ 2,572	$ 2,355
Restricted stock forfeitures	(25)	(118)
Stock options exercised	$ 5,617	$ 1,714	$ 5,678
Stock Options | Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0
Stock options exercised (in shares)	0	0	150,962
Share-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted stock forfeitures	0	0
Stock options exercised	$ 0	$ 0	$ 788
Stock Options | Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0
Stock options exercised (in shares)	336,904	52,708	39,781
Share-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted stock forfeitures	0	0
Stock options exercised	$ 6,859	$ 216	$ 460
Performance Stock | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0	0
Performance stock issued (in shares)	0	0	0
Share-based compensation expense	$ 3,324	$ 2,265	$ 2,705
Restricted stock forfeitures	(28)	(155)	(33)
Performance stock issued	$ (371)	$ (616)	$ (420)
Performance Stock | Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0	0
Performance stock issued (in shares)	0	0	80,415
Share-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted stock forfeitures	0	0	0
Performance stock issued	$ 0	$ 0	$ (420)
Performance Stock | Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Restricted stock forfeitures (in shares)	0	0	0
Performance stock issued (in shares)	31,093	52,839	0
Share-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Restricted stock forfeitures	0	0	0
Performance stock issued	$ (371)	$ (616)	$ 0
Employee Stock Purchase Plan | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Performance stock issued (in shares)	0	0
Performance stock issued	$ (458)	$ (352)
Employee Stock Purchase Plan | Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Performance stock issued (in shares)	0	0
Performance stock issued	$ 0	$ 0
Employee Stock Purchase Plan | Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Performance stock issued (in shares)	9,500	11,517
Performance stock issued	$ (113)	$ (136)
Share Repurchase Program, May 2015 | Common Stock
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)	0	0
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs		$ 0
Share Repurchase Program, May 2015 | Stock Compensation Trust
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)		0
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs		$ 0
Share Repurchase Program, May 2015 | Treasury
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Treasury shares purchased (in shares)		(150,000)
Treasury shares purchased for stock compensation programs		$ (7,104)

Segment Information - Additiona

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of geographic operating segments	6
Number of reportable segments	3

Segment Information - Schedule

Segment Information - Schedule Of Reportable Segment Information (Detail) - USD ($) number in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers	$ 296,031	$ 278,233	$ 295,998	$ 279,268	$ 313,318	$ 273,746	$ 287,011	$ 256,708	$ 1,149,530	$ 1,130,783	$ 1,133,885
Intercompany sales									0	0	0
Operating income									164,192	122,741	134,281
Restructuring charges									5,694	12,258	8,515
Currency exchange losses, net									766	2,204	1,509
Adjusted operating income (loss)									170,652	137,203	144,305
Interest income									2,827	1,525	1,822
Interest expense									16,411	10,854	9,851
Depreciation and amortization									34,813	32,680	29,762
Pension (income) expense									(6,332)	(11,955)	(4,836)
Income tax provision									57,804	44,407	41,044
Total Assets	1,353,920				1,422,863				1,353,920	1,422,863	1,263,412
Capital expenditures									25,523	36,241	33,583
Net property	148,678				155,839				148,678	155,839	151,352
Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring charges									1,800	3,300	500
International
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring charges									5,300	7,400	8,000
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									0	0	0
Intercompany sales									0	0	0
Restructuring charges									200	1,600	0
Adjusted operating income (loss)									(38,627)	(38,269)	(37,361)
Interest income									10	6	5
Interest expense									16,411	10,854	9,851
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Pension (income) expense									0	0	0
Income tax provision									8,778	(20,108)	(15,972)
Total Assets	10,903				16,362				10,903	16,362	20,867
Capital expenditures									0	0	0
Net property	1				1				1	1	1
Operating Segments | Americas
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									678,433	704,754	663,655
Intercompany sales									113,273	134,185	117,681
Adjusted operating income (loss)									$ 162,788	$ 141,971	$ 134,819
Adjusted operating margin %									0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Interest income									$ 1,914	$ 1,183	$ 1,450
Interest expense									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									21,046	21,180	20,145
Pension (income) expense									(544)	(3,759)	(1,977)
Income tax provision									37,838	50,751	49,014
Total Assets	836,243				873,045				836,243	873,045	883,131
Capital expenditures									16,306	22,568	20,268
Net property	95,904				97,021				95,904	97,021	95,933
Operating Segments | International
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									471,097	426,029	470,230
Intercompany sales									275,640	225,358	131,477
Adjusted operating income (loss)									$ 46,491	$ 33,501	$ 46,847
Adjusted operating margin %									0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Interest income									$ 903	$ 336	$ 367
Interest expense									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									13,767	11,500	9,617
Pension (income) expense									(6,876)	(8,196)	(6,813)
Income tax provision									12,830	13,706	8,633
Total Assets	505,278				532,960				505,278	532,960	359,557
Capital expenditures									9,217	13,673	13,315
Net property	52,773				58,817				52,773	58,817	55,418
Reconciling Items
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									0	0	0
Intercompany sales									(388,913)	(359,543)	(249,158)
Adjusted operating income (loss)									0	0	0
Interest income									0	0	0
Interest expense									0	0	0
Depreciation and amortization									0	0	0
Pension (income) expense									0	0	0
Income tax provision									(1,642)	58	(631)
Total Assets	1,496				496				1,496	496	(143)
Capital expenditures									0	0	0
Net property	$ 0				$ 0				$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Segment Information - Geographi

Segment Information - Geographic Information on Sales to External Customers (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Sales to external customers	$ 296,031	$ 278,233	$ 295,998	$ 279,268	$ 313,318	$ 273,746	$ 287,011	$ 256,708	$ 1,149,530	$ 1,130,783	$ 1,133,885
United States
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									580,724	593,539	530,845
Other
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Sales to external customers									$ 568,806	$ 537,244	$ 603,040

Segment Information - Geograp62

Segment Information - Geographic Information on Property (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Line Items]
Net property	$ 148,678	$ 155,839	$ 151,352
United States
Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Line Items]
Net property	84,675	88,368	85,247
China
Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Line Items]
Net property	11,732	13,504	15,128
Germany
Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Line Items]
Net property	7,919	7,596	17,654
Other
Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Line Items]
Net property	$ 44,352	$ 46,371	$ 33,323

Segment Information - Revenue f

Segment Information - Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services (Details) - Sales	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Breathing Apparatus
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	26.00%	27.00%	19.00%
Fixed Gas and Flame Detection
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	21.00%	21.00%	23.00%
Portable Gas Detection
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	12.00%	13.00%	15.00%
Head Protection
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	10.00%	11.00%	13.00%
Fire & Rescue Helmets
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	5.00%	5.00%	5.00%
Fall Protection
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	8.00%	5.00%	4.00%
Other
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Concentration risk (percentage)	18.00%	18.00%	21.00%

Earnings per Share - Schedule O

Earnings per Share - Schedule Of Earnings Per Share (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income attributable to continuing operations	$ 25,216	$ 25,486	$ 29,306	$ 12,683	$ 20,840	$ 15,712	$ 23,722	$ 9,316	$ 92,691	$ 69,590	$ 87,447
Preferred stock dividends									42	41	41
Income from continuing operations available to common equity									92,649	69,549	87,406
Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities									(144)	(192)	(546)
Income from continuing operations available to common shareholders									92,505	69,357	86,860
Net income attributable to discontinued operations	$ (300)	$ (1,300)	$ 1,777	$ (932)	$ 11	$ 264	$ 576	$ 366	(755)	1,217	1,059
Preferred stock dividends									0	(1)	(1)
Income from discontinued operations available to common equity									(755)	1,216	1,058
Dividends and undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities									1	(3)	(7)
Income from discontinued operations available to common shareholders									$ (754)	$ 1,213	$ 1,051
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)									37,456	37,293	37,138
Stock options and other stock compensation (in shares)									530	417	590
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)									37,986	37,710	37,728
Antidilutive stock options (in shares)									0	658	0
Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations:
Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations, basic (dollars per share)	$ 0.67	$ 0.68	$ 0.78	$ 0.34	$ 0.56	$ 0.42	$ 0.63	$ 0.25	$ 2.47	$ 1.86	$ 2.34
Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations, diluted (dollars per share)	0.66	0.67	0.77	0.34	0.55	0.41	0.62	0.25	2.44	1.84	2.30
Earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations:
Earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations, basic (dollars per share)	(0.01)	(0.04)	0.05	(0.03)	0	0.01	0.02	0.01	(0.02)	0.03	0.03
Earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations, diluted (dollars per share)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.04)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ (0.02)	$ 0.03	$ 0.03

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Discontinued operation, tax effect of discontinued operation	$ 0.3	$ 0.6	$ 0.6
Deferred income tax expense (benefit), discontinued operation		0.5	$ (0.3)
Net operating loss carryforwards	37.2
Net operating loss carryforward expiring in 2020	$ 0.1
Net operating loss carryforwards expiration year	2,017
Net operating loss carryforwards, expiration term (at least)	6 years
Change in valuation allowance	$ 0.2
Undistributed earnings of non-U.S. subsidiaries	422.3
Recognized tax benefits	4.3	2.1
Liability for interest expense and penalties accrued	1.5	0.9
Increase in interest related to uncertain tax positions	0.6
International
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Charges associated with exit taxes	$ 6.5	$ 7.7

Income Taxes - Components of In

Income Taxes - Components of Income Before Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S. income	$ 100,382	$ 71,547	$ 58,209
Non-U.S. income	51,529	39,479	68,986
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	151,911	111,026	127,195
Current
Federal	19,968	21,253	23,659
State	2,231	2,389	1,349
Non-U.S.	21,188	22,979	21,101
Total current provision	43,387	46,621	46,109
Deferred
Federal	11,580	3,813	(3,650)
State	1,977	(213)	317
Non-U.S.	860	(5,814)	(1,732)
Total deferred provision	14,417	(2,214)	(5,065)
Provision for income taxes	$ 57,804	$ 44,407	$ 41,044

Income Taxes - Reconciliation B

Income Taxes - Reconciliation Between U.S. Federal Income Tax Rate and Effective Tax Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S. federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Taxes on non-U.S. income - European reorganization	4.30%	6.90%	0.00%
State income taxes—U.S.	1.80%	1.30%	0.80%
Valuation allowances	1.50%	1.70%	(0.60%)
Taxes on non-U.S. income	(2.50%)	(2.10%)	(2.20%)
Manufacturing deduction credit	(1.30%)	(1.60%)	(1.00%)
Research and development credit	(0.60%)	(1.10%)	(0.70%)
Other	(0.10%)	(0.10%)	1.00%
Effective income tax rate	38.10%	40.00%	32.30%

Income Taxes - Components of De

Income Taxes - Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Accrued expenses and other reserves	$ 5,381	$ 4,412
Product liability	1,303	6,116
Employee benefits	9,538	9,387
Share-based compensation	10,462	10,323
Reserve for doubtful accounts	1,178	2,279
Inventory	1,218	2,496
Capitalized research and development	4,654	5,339
Net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards	16,218	15,310
Other	1,316	2,892
Total deferred tax assets	51,268	58,554
Valuation allowances	(5,303)	(5,153)
Net deferred tax assets	45,965	53,401
Goodwill and intangibles	(42,007)	(42,867)
Property, plant and equipment	(11,394)	(8,920)
Other	(3,368)	(31)
Total deferred tax liabilities	56,769	51,818
Net deferred tax liabilities	$ (10,804)
Net deferred taxes assets		$ 1,583

Income Taxes - Reconciliation o

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Change in Tax Liability for Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 13,070	$ 9,857
Adjustments for tax positions related to the current year	2,359	8,203
Adjustments for tax positions related to prior years	(856)	(4,887)
Statute expiration	(180)	(103)
Ending balance	$ 14,393	$ 13,070

Stock Plans - Additional Inform

Stock Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options expiration period		10 years
Stock options exercisable period after grant date		3 years
Restricted stock and restricted stock unit vest period after grant date		3 years
Average closing share price, period		1 year
Cash proceeds from exercise of options		$ 12,476	$ 1,930	$ 6,926
Excess tax benefit (provision) related to stock plans		478	596	2,573
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercisable		39,500
Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding		50,000
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised		6,400	500	3,700
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense		$ 6,700
Weighted average period over which unrecognized stock-based compensation expense is expected to be recognized, in years		2 years
Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award based on achieving targeted performance conditions		0.00%
Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of target award based on achieving targeted performance conditions		200.00%
Percentage of target award based on achieving targeted return on net assets based on which final number of shares to be issued for performance stock units		66.60%
Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Excess tax benefit (provision) related to stock plans		$ 600	(100)	1,000
Restricted Stock and Unit Activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Fair value of stock units vested		3,700	$ 5,300	$ 5,800
Performance Stock Unit Activity
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period (in years)	3 years
Fair value of stock units vested		$ 1,800
Management
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for future grants		1,368,638
Non Employee Directors
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares reserved for future grants		139,657
Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock options expiration period		10 years

Stock Plans - Schedule of Stock

Stock Plans - Schedule of Stock Compensation Expense (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Restricted stock	$ 3,456	$ 3,035	$ 4,026
Stock options	2,459	2,454	2,355
Performance stock	3,296	2,110	2,672
Total compensation expense before income taxes	9,211	7,599	9,053
Income tax benefit	3,375	2,896	3,293
Total compensation expense, net of income tax benefit	$ 5,836	$ 4,703	$ 5,760

Stock Plans - Weighted Average

Stock Plans - Weighted Average Assumptions and Fair Value of Stock Option Grants (Detail) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Fair value per option (dollars per share)	$ 11.69	$ 15.63	$ 17.26
Risk-free interest rate	1.60%	1.80%	2.10%
Expected dividend yield	2.80%	2.30%	2.40%
Expected volatility	34.00%	39.00%	41.00%
Expected life (years)	84 months 2 days	6 years 8 months 16 days	6 years 7 months 6 days

Stock Plans - Summary of Stock

Stock Plans - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Detail) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding Beginning balance, Shares	1,694,675	1,618,561	1,695,380
Granted, Shares	235,233	170,683	138,519
Exercised, Shares	(341,063)	(64,752)	(190,743)
Expired, Shares	(12,753)	(1,109)	(1,071)
Forfeited, Shares		(28,708)	(23,524)
Outstanding Ending balance, Shares	1,576,092	1,694,675	1,618,561
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Outstanding Beginning balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 36.69	$ 35.74	$ 34.55
Granted, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	44.50	48.64	51.69
Exercised, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	37.34	38.59	36.31
Expired, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	46.11	44.36	45.68
Forfeited, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)		49.71	38.82
Outstanding Ending balance, Weighted Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 37.63	$ 36.69	$ 35.74
Exercisable at end of period	1,098,615	1,280,665	1,147,712

Stock Plans - Schedule of Exerc

Stock Plans - Schedule of Exercise Price Ranges, Characteristics of Outstanding Stock Options (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
$17.83 – $33.00
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (dollars per share)	$ 17.83
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (dollars per share)	$ 33
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares | shares	456,938
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 21.66
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	2 years 7 months 21 days
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares | shares	456,938
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 21.66
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	2 years 7 months 21 days
$33.01 – $45.00
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (dollars per share)	$ 33.01
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (dollars per share)	$ 45
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares | shares	566,173
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 39.60
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	6 years 22 days
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares | shares	346,157
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 36.49
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	4 years 1 month 2 days
$45.01 – $51.69
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (dollars per share)	$ 45.01
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (dollars per share)	$ 51.69
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares | shares	552,981
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 48.82
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	5 years 8 months 9 days
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares | shares	295,520
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 47.84
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	3 years 10 months 28 days
$17.83 – $51.69
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (dollars per share)	$ 17.83
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (dollars per share)	$ 51.69
Stock Options Outstanding, Shares | shares	1,576,092
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 37.63
Stock Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	4 years 11 months 9 days
Stock Options Exercisable, Shares | shares	1,098,615
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (dollars per share)	$ 33.37
Stock Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Life	3 years 5 months 9 days

Stock Plans - Summary of Restri

Stock Plans - Summary of Restricted Stock Activity (Detail) - Restricted Stock and Unit Activity - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Unvested Shares, Beginning Balance	217,709	268,743	303,419
Granted, Shares	107,465	83,725	83,543
Vested, Shares	(76,568)	(111,834)	(108,245)
Forfeited, Shares	(14,014)	(22,925)	(9,974)
Unvested Shares, Ending Balance	234,592	217,709	268,743
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Unvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (dollars per share)	$ 49.70	$ 45.34	$ 39.79
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)	50.65	48.06	51.91
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)	49.12	39.01	34.94
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)	48.23	45.84	44.42
Unvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (dollars per share)	$ 49.76	$ 49.70	$ 45.34

Stock Plans - Summary of Perfor

Stock Plans - Summary of Performance Stock Unit Activity (Detail) - Performance Stock Unit Activity - $ / shares	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Unvested Shares, Beginning Balance	143,961	171,644	143,961	149,389
Granted, Shares		65,355	87,256	46,242
Vested, Shares		(31,181)	(66,200)	(91,696)
Performance adjustments, Shares		(15,594)	16,447	41,428
Forfeited, Shares	(9,820)	(3,603)		(1,402)
Unvested Shares, Ending Balance		186,621	171,644	143,961
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Unvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (dollars per share)	$ 52.42	$ 50.24	$ 52.42	$ 46.32
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)		44.28	41.99	57.42
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)		58.54	41.75	39.19
Performance adjustments, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair value (dollars per share)		58.54	41.45	39.42
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (dollars per share)	$ 51.51	44.47		48.85
Unvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (dollars per share)		$ 46.18	$ 50.24	$ 52.42

Short and Long-Term Debt - Shor

Short and Long-Term Debt - Short-Term Debt Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Average month-end balance		$ 0.1
Maximum month-end balance	$ 0.2

Short and Long-Term Debt - Sche

Short and Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Outstanding Debt (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total	$ 390,502	$ 464,672
Amounts due within one year	26,666	6,650
Long-term debt	363,836	458,022
Senior Notes Payable Through 2021, 5.41%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior notes payable	$ 33,333	39,999
Senior notes, interest rate	5.41%
Senior Notes Payable Through 2021, 4.00%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior notes payable	$ 100,000	100,000
Senior notes, interest rate	4.00%
Senior Notes Payable Through 2031, 3.40%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior notes payable	$ 67,713	0
Senior notes, interest rate	3.40%
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior revolving credit facility maturing in 2020, net of debt issuance costs	$ 189,456	$ 324,673

Short and Long-Term Debt - Long

Short and Long-Term Debt - Long-Term Debt Additional Information (Detail)	Jan. 22, 2016GBP (£)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 11, 2015USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity obligation, 2017		$ 26,700,000
Maturity obligation, 2018		26,700,000
Maturity obligation, 2019		26,700,000
Maturity obligation, 2020		217,700,000
Maturity obligation, 2021		26,700,000
Maturity obligation, thereafter		67,800,000
Bank guarantees and letters of credit, outstanding		13,100,000
Restricted cash and cash equivalents		1,200,000	$ 2,400,000
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average revolver interest rate	2.27%
Unused senior revolving credit facility		377,200,000
Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity				$ 575,000,000
Bank guarantees and letters of credit, outstanding		6,900,000
Multi-currency Notes Due in 2031
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable, principal amount	£ 54,900,000	67,800,000
Notes payable, annual repayment installments	£ 6,100,000	$ 7,500,000
Notes payable, interest rate		3.40%
Minimum fixed charges coverage ratio (not less than)		1.50
Consolidated leverage ratio (not to exceed)		3.25
Federal Funds Open Rate | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		0.50%
Daily Libor Rate | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		1.00%
Minimum | BASE or LIBOR | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		0.00%
Maximum | BASE or LIBOR | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate		17500.00%

Goodwill and Intangible Asset80

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Feb. 29, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 333,276			$ 340,338	$ 252,520
Disposal of goodwill	338			$ 0
Intangible Assets
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Future amortization expense, 2017	7,500
Future amortization expense, 2018	6,100
Future amortization expense, 2019	6,100
Future amortization expense, 2020	6,100
Future amortization expense, 2021	5,900
Americas
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	198,800
International
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill	134,500
Disposal of goodwill	$ 200
South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations | Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Stock sold (as a percent)		100.00%	100.00%

Goodwill and Intangible Asset81

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Changes in Goodwill (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Net balance at January 1	$ 340,338	$ 252,520
Additions (Note 13)	10,485	97,959
Disposal	(338)	0
Currency translation	(17,209)	(10,141)
Net balance at December 31	$ 333,276	$ 340,338

Goodwill and Intangible Asset82

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Changes in Intangible Assets, Net of Accumulated Amortization (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Net balance at January 1	$ 90,068	$ 31,323
Additions	4,420	67,645
Amortization expense	(7,885)	(4,811)
Impairment losses	0	(723)	$ 0
Currency translation	(9,588)	(3,366)
Net balance at December 31	$ 77,015	$ 90,068	$ 31,323

Goodwill and Intangible Asset83

Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Net Carrying Amount (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	14 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 113,600	$ 118,400
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(36,600)	(28,300)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 77,015	90,068	$ 31,323
Customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	14 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 45,500	50,500
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(3,600)	(700)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 41,900	49,800
Distribution agreements
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	20 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 25,200	24,600
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(8,000)	(6,200)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 17,200	18,400
Technology related assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	10 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 18,000	17,500
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(10,300)	(8,300)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 7,700	9,200
Patents, trademarks and copyrights
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	14 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 17,000	16,500
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(7,100)	(4,600)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 9,900	11,900
License agreements
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	5 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 5,300	5,400
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(5,300)	(5,300)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 0	100
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life (years)	2 years
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 2,600	3,900
Accumulated Amortization and Reserves	(2,300)	(3,200)
Net Carrying Amount	$ 300	$ 700

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)	Sep. 19, 2016	Oct. 21, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 11, 2015	Aug. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated amortization period			14 years
Amortization expense for inventory step up			$ 1,400,000
Remaining inventory step up expected to be amortized in 2017			200,000
Goodwill			333,276,000	$ 340,338,000	$ 252,520,000
Net loss			(91,936,000)	(70,807,000)	$ (88,506,000)
Amortization primarily related to intangible assets			7,885,000	4,811,000
Americas
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill			198,800,000
Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock acquired (as a percent)	0.00%
Purchase price for acquisition	$ 19,100,000
Contingent consideration	0
Future amortization expense, 2017			732,000
Future amortization expense, 2018			700,000
Future amortization expense, 2019			700,000
Future amortization expense, 2020			700,000
Future amortization expense, 2021			700,000
Goodwill	0
Transaction and integration costs related to acquisition			800,000
Net sales			2,700,000
Net loss			1,100,000
Amortization primarily related to intangible assets			$ 200,000
Senscient, Incorporated | International
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 10,500,000
Latchways
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase price for acquisition		$ 190,900,000
Contingent consideration		0
Estimated amortization period			15 years
Future amortization expense, 2017			$ 4,500,000
Future amortization expense, 2018			4,500,000
Future amortization expense, 2019			4,500,000
Future amortization expense, 2020			4,500,000
Future amortization expense, 2021			4,500,000
Step up to fair value of acquired inventory		1,600,000
Estimated future depreciation expense, 2017			900,000
Estimated future depreciation expense, 2018			900,000
Estimated future depreciation expense, 2019			900,000
Estimated future depreciation expense, 2020			900,000
Estimated future depreciation expense, 2021			900,000
Goodwill		98,000,000
Transaction and integration costs related to acquisition			500,000	2,500,000
Transaction and integration costs related to acquisition, net of tax			$ 400,000	1,600,000
Transaction costs				5,000,000
Transaction costs, non-deductible for tax purposes				2,800,000
Net sales				10,100,000
Net loss				$ 700,000
Latchways | International
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		96,600,000
Latchways | Americas
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 1,400,000
Revolving Credit Facility
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Unsecured senior revolving credit facility						$ 575,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility | Senior Notes
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Unsecured senior revolving credit facility							$ 125,000,000
Technology related assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated amortization period			10 years
Technology related assets | Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated amortization period			10 years
Customer-related intangibles | Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Estimated amortization period			5 years

Acquisitions - Preliminary Fair

Acquisitions - Preliminary Fair Values of the Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 19, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Oct. 21, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 333,276		$ 340,338		$ 252,520
Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current assets		$ 0
Cash included in current assets		700
Property, plant and equipment		0
Goodwill		0
Total assets acquired		0
Total liabilities assumed		0
Net assets acquired		0
Latchways
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Current assets				$ 35,700
Cash included in current assets				10,600
Property, plant and equipment				9,500
Goodwill				98,000
Total assets acquired				210,800
Total liabilities assumed				19,900
Net assets acquired				190,900
Trade name and acquired technology | Latchways
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets				14,600
Acquired technology | Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		0
Customer-related intangibles | Senscient, Incorporated
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets		$ 0
Customer-related intangibles | Latchways
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets				$ 53,000

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Financ

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Financial Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 1,153	$ 1,175
Income from continuing operations	$ 93	$ 75
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 2.48	$ 2
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 2.44	$ 1.98

Pensions and Other Post-retir87

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Schedule of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Plan (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Change in Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$ 419,088
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	433,262	$ 419,088
Funded Status
Noncurrent assets	62,916	62,072
Noncurrent liabilities	(157,927)	(156,160)
Pension Benefits
Change in Benefit Obligations
Benefit obligations at January 1	491,180	519,194
Service cost	10,417	11,517	$ 9,425
Interest cost	18,752	18,314	19,340
Participant contributions	100	105
Plan amendments	(1,092)	604
Actuarial (gains) losses	9,123	(21,073)
Benefits paid	(19,550)	(19,261)
Settlements	(381)	(2,094)
Currency translation	(4,389)	(16,126)
Benefit obligations at December 31	503,997	491,180	519,194
Change in Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	419,088	445,299
Actual return on plan assets	31,418	(4,754)
Employer contributions	3,878	4,058
Settlements	(381)	(2,094)
Benefits paid	(19,550)	(16,979)
Reimbursement of German benefits	0	(2,282)
Administrative Expenses Paid	0	6
Currency translation	(1,291)	(4,271)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	433,262	419,088	445,299
Funded Status
Funded status at December 31	(70,735)	(72,092)
Defined Benefit Plan, before Adoption of FAS 158 Recognition Provisions, Net Transition Obligations (Assets), Not yet Recognized	8	12
Unrecognized prior service (credit) cost	(646)	525
Unrecognized net actuarial losses	187,738	188,531
Net amount recognized	116,365	116,976
Noncurrent assets	62,916	62,072
Current liabilities	(4,620)	(5,033)
Noncurrent liabilities	(129,031)	(129,131)
Net amount recognized	(70,735)	(72,092)
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Net actuarial losses	187,738	188,531
Prior service (credit) cost	(646)	525
Unrecognized net initial obligation	8	12
Total (before tax effects)	187,100	189,068
Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans	465,448	453,382
Curtailments	163	0
Other Benefits
Change in Benefit Obligations
Benefit obligations at January 1	22,974	26,851
Service cost	426	444	538
Interest cost	946	863	1,107
Participant contributions	222	255
Plan amendments	(400)	0
Actuarial (gains) losses	1,285	(3,998)
Benefits paid	(1,773)	(1,441)
Settlements	0	0
Currency translation	0	0
Benefit obligations at December 31	23,680	22,974	26,851
Change in Plan Assets
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contributions	1,551	1,186
Settlements	0	0
Benefits paid	(1,773)	(1,441)
Reimbursement of German benefits	0	0
Administrative Expenses Paid	0	0
Currency translation	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	0	0	$ 0
Funded Status
Funded status at December 31	(23,680)	(22,974)
Defined Benefit Plan, before Adoption of FAS 158 Recognition Provisions, Net Transition Obligations (Assets), Not yet Recognized	0	0
Unrecognized prior service (credit) cost	(1,505)	(1,524)
Unrecognized net actuarial losses	3,643	2,117
Net amount recognized	(21,542)	(22,381)
Noncurrent assets	0	0
Current liabilities	(1,638)	(1,382)
Noncurrent liabilities	(22,042)	(21,592)
Net amount recognized	(23,680)	(22,974)
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Net actuarial losses	3,643	2,425
Prior service (credit) cost	(1,505)	(1,523)
Unrecognized net initial obligation	0	0
Total (before tax effects)	2,138	902
Accumulated Benefit Obligations for all Defined Benefit Plans	0	0
Curtailments	$ 0	$ 0

Pensions and Other Post-retir88

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 10,417	$ 11,517	$ 9,425
Interest cost	18,752	18,314	19,340
Expected return on plan assets	(34,751)	(34,130)	(32,944)
Amortization of transition amounts	2	2	2
Amortization of prior service (credit) cost	(14)	66	84
Recognized net actuarial losses	11,921	15,545	8,639
Settlement loss	5	641	290
Termination benefits	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	6,332	11,955	4,836
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	426	444	538
Interest cost	946	863	1,107
Expected return on plan assets	0	0	0
Amortization of transition amounts	0	0	0
Amortization of prior service (credit) cost	(419)	(335)	(335)
Recognized net actuarial losses	68	27	182
Settlement loss	0	0	0
Termination benefits	0	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 1,021	$ 999	$ 1,492

Pensions and Other Post-retir89

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligations (ABO)	$ 147,531	$ 147,864
Aggregate projected benefit obligations (PBO)	160,543	161,009
Aggregate fair value of plan assets	$ 26,986	$ 26,844

Pensions and Other Post-retir90

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Schedule of Amounts Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Expected To Be Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Detail) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Pension Benefits
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Loss recognition	$ 12,255
Prior service credit recognition	(15)
Transition obligation recognition	1
Other Benefits
Schedule of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Loss recognition	103
Prior service credit recognition	(288)
Transition obligation recognition	$ 0

Pensions and Other Post-retir91

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Schedule of Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations and Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, average discount rate	3.67%	3.92%
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, rate of compensation increase	2.99%	3.06%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, average discount rate	3.92%	3.63%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, expected return on plan assets	8.18%	8.17%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, rate of compensation increases	3.06%	3.03%
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, average discount rate	4.05%	4.20%
Assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost, average discount rate	4.20%	3.85%

Pensions and Other Post-retir92

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Schedule of Expected Return on Assets for Net Periodic Pension Cost (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	100.00%	100.00%
Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	70.00%	67.00%
Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	20.00%	24.00%
Pooled investment funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	5.00%	5.00%
Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	4.00%	3.00%
Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total	1.00%	1.00%

Pensions and Other Post-retir93

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Summary of Pension Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis by Fair Value Hierarchy (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	$ 433,262	$ 419,088
Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	304,460	280,619
Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	87,776	100,067
Pooled investment funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	20,156	19,345
Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	14,948	13,681
Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	5,922	5,376
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	273,192	260,470
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	242,161	225,191
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	25,109	29,903
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Pooled investment funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	5,922	5,376
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	145,122	144,937
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	62,299	55,428
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	62,667	70,164
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Pooled investment funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	20,156	19,345
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	14,948	13,681
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pooled investment funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	14,948	13,681	$ 15,069
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Total pension plan assets measured at fair value	$ 0	$ 0

Pensions and Other Post-retir94

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Schedule of Reconciliation of Level Three Assets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$ 419,088
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	433,262	$ 419,088
Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	13,681
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	14,948	13,681
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	13,681
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	14,948	13,681
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	13,681	15,069
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings	975	(1,526)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements	292	138
Transfers out of Level 3	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	14,948	13,681
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at January 1	0	753
Net realized and unrealized losses included in earnings	0	(64)
Net purchases, issuances and settlements	0	(184)
Transfers out of Level 3	0	(505)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$ 0	$ 0

Pensions and Other Post-retir95

Pensions and Other Post-retirement Benefits - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Period of amortization for actuarial gains and losses	11 years
Estimated contributions by employer to pension plans	$ 5,900
Percentage increase in health care benefit cost	6.50%
Percentage decrease in health care benefits for successive year	0.50%	0.50%
Estimated future percentage of health care benefits	4.50%
Increase in costs of covered health care benefits	6.00%
Percentage of change in assumed health care cost trend rate	1.00%
Increase or decrease in other postretirement obligations	$ 810
Increase or decrease in current year plan expense	55
Defined contribution pension plan expense	5,100	$ 6,800	$ 6,500
Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated benefit payments, 2017	20,900
Estimated benefit payments, 2018	21,600
Estimated benefit payments, 2019	22,200
Estimated benefit payments, 2020	23,700
Estimated benefit payments, 2021	24,600
Estimated benefit payments, five years thereafter	138,500
Other Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated benefit payments, 2017	1,700
Estimated benefit payments, 2018	1,700
Estimated benefit payments, 2019	1,900
Estimated benefit payments, 2020	1,800
Estimated benefit payments, 2021	1,900
Estimated benefit payments, five years thereafter	$ 8,100

Other Income (Loss), Net - Sche

Other Income (Loss), Net - Schedule of Other Income (Loss) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Interest income	$ 2,827	$ 1,525	$ 1,822
Gain on asset dispositions, net	593	1,724	2,094
Other, net	710	836	(1,101)
Disposal of non-core product lines	0	(4,223)	0
Impairment of intangible assets	0	(723)	0
Land impairment loss	0	0	(50)
Total other income (loss), net	4,130	(861)	$ 2,765
Safety Works
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Impairment of intangible assets	(700)
Property in Australia
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Gain on asset dispositions, net	2,000
Detector Tube Assets
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Gain on asset dispositions, net		$ 2,200
Americas | Safety Works
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]
Disposal of non-core product lines	$ (4,200)

Leases - Additional Information

Leases - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Rent expense	$ 12.6	$ 10.8	$ 11.7
Minimum rent commitments in 2017	12.2
Minimum rent commitments in 2018	11
Minimum rent commitments in 2019	10.6
Minimum rent commitments in 2020	5.2
Minimum rent commitments in 2021	4.2
Minimum rent commitments, thereafter	$ 7

Derivative Financial Instrume98

Derivative Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) - Foreign Exchange Forward	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of open forward contracts	$ 75,300,000
Unrealized loss on contract	$ 300,000

Derivative Financial Instrume99

Derivative Financial Instruments - Balance Sheet Location And Fair Value Of Assets And Liabilities Associated With Derivative Financial Instruments (Detail) - Foreign exchange contracts - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Current Assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	$ 566	$ 401
Other Current Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	$ 258	$ 581

Derivative Financial Instrum100

Derivative Financial Instruments - Income Statement Location And Impact Of Derivative Financial Instruments (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Foreign Exchange Contract | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Currency exchange loss	$ 6,675	$ 2,187

Fair Value Measurements (Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Carrying amount of long-term debt	$ 175	$ 140
Fair value of long-term debt	$ 194	$ 145

Contingencies - Additional Info

Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands	Feb. 09, 2017USD ($)	Oct. 06, 2016USD ($)	Feb. 26, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)LegalMattercategorytrauma_claimVendor	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)LegalMatter	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)LegalMattertrauma_claim	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)LegalMatter	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)LegalMatter	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)LegalMatter
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of categories of product liability losses | category				2
Increase (decrease) in insurance settlements receivable						$ 150,900
Number of lawsuits | LegalMatter				1,794		1,794
Number of cumulative trauma claims covered by lawsuits | trauma_claim				3,023		3,023
Years of activity				5 years
Number of insurance carriers | Vendor				20
Insurance receivables				$ 159,900	$ 229,500	$ 159,900	$ 229,500	$ 220,500	$ 124,800
Notes receivable, insurance companies (Note 19)				2,000	2,000	2,000	2,000
Insurance receivable, noncurrent				157,900	227,500	157,900	227,500
Notes receivable from insurance companies				67,300	8,700	67,300	8,700	$ 16,200
Reported in Notes receivable				4,180	6,746	4,180	6,746
Insurance receivable, noncurrent				63,147	1,944	63,147	1,944
Single Incident
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Reserves for product liability claims				3,400	3,500	3,400	3,500
Cumulative Trauma, Reported Claims
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Reserves for product liability claims				11,100		11,100
Loss contingency accrual, product liability, net				7,500	7,100	$ 7,500	7,100
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC				$ (400)
Uninsured Cumulative Trauma
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Product liability losses					$ 900		$ 800
Insurance Claims
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of lawsuits | LegalMatter				3,023	3,779	3,023	3,779	5,539	8,941
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC			$ (7,200)
Compensatory Damages, Insured
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC			(3,200)
Punitive Damages, Uninsured
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC			$ (4,000)
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Cumulative Trauma
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Reserves for product liability claims				$ 300	$ 1,000	$ 300	$ 1,000	$ 3,900
North River Insurance Company
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC		$ (10,900)
Subsequent Event | North River Insurance Company
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Total damages in verdict against MSA LLC	$ (46,900)
Punitive damages	30,000
Attorneys' fees	11,800
Pre-judgement interest	$ 5,100

Contingencies - Summary of Cumu

Contingencies - Summary of Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Claims Activity (Detail) - LegalMatter	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Loss Contingency, Quantities [Roll Forward]
Open lawsuits/Pending claims, December 31	1,794
Lawsuits
Loss Contingency, Quantities [Roll Forward]
Open lawsuits/Pending claims, January 1	1,988	2,326	2,840
New lawsuits/claims	379	340	542
Settled and dismissed lawsuits/claims	(573)	(678)	(1,056)
Open lawsuits/Pending claims, December 31	1,794	1,988	2,326
Pending claims
Loss Contingency, Quantities [Roll Forward]
Open lawsuits/Pending claims, January 1	3,779	5,539	8,941
New lawsuits/claims	843	465	542
Settled and dismissed lawsuits/claims	(1,599)	(2,225)	(3,944)
Open lawsuits/Pending claims, December 31	3,023	3,779	5,539

Contingencies - Summary of Insu

Contingencies - Summary of Insurance Receivable Balances and Activity Related to Cumulative Trauma Product Liability Losses (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Movement in Loss Contingency Receivable, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward]
Balance beginning of period	$ 229.5	$ 220.5	$ 124.8
Additions	29.2	17.3	98.2
Collections and settlements converted to notes receivable	(98.8)	(8.3)	(2.5)
Balance end of period	$ 159.9	$ 229.5	$ 220.5

Contingencies - Summary of Note

Contingencies - Summary of Notes Receivable from Insurance Companies and Activity During the Year (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Movement in Loss Contingency Receivable, Increase (Decrease) [Roll Forward]
Balance beginning of period	$ 8.7	$ 16.2
Additions	95.6	0.5
Collections	(37)	(8)
Balance end of period	$ 67.3	$ 8.7

Discontinued Operations - Addit

Discontinued Operations - Additional Information (Details) - South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Feb. 29, 2016
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Stock sold (as a percent)		100.00%	100.00%
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Amount in escrow from potential acquirer			$ 15.9
Gain (loss) on sale	$ 2.5	$ 0.3

Discontinued Operations - Disco

Discontinued Operations - Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 5,261	$ 8,854	$ 11,648	$ 11,384	$ 11,157	$ 5,261	$ 43,043
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax									(245)	1,325	$ 1,776
South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations | Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales									5,261	43,043	47,516
Other income, net									596	580	660
Cost of products sold									4,819	34,764	38,259
Selling, general and administrative									937	6,680	7,650
Restructuring and other charges									0	14	0
Currency exchange losses (gains), net									18	266	(116)
Income from discontinued operations before income taxes									83	1,899	2,383
Provision for income taxes									328	574	607
(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax									$ (245)	$ 1,325	$ 1,776

Discontinued Operations - Di108

Discontinued Operations - Discontinued Operations Assets and Liabilities (Details) - South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations - Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 0	$ 4,832
Inventories	0	8,499
Net property	0	449
Other assets	0	791
Total assets	0	14,571
Accounts payable	0	2,745
Accrued and other liabilities	686	748
Total liabilities	686	3,493
Net (liabilities) assets	$ (686)	$ 11,078

Discontinued Operations - Net L

Discontinued Operations - Net Loss (Income) Related to Noncontrolling Interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net (income) loss	$ (1,926)	$ 2,863	$ 579
South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations | Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
(Income) loss from continuing operations	(1,416)	2,971	1,296
(Income) loss from discontinued operations	(510)	(108)	(717)
Net (income) loss	$ (1,926)	$ 2,863	$ 579

Quarterly Financial Informat110

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) - Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 296,031	$ 278,233	$ 295,998	$ 279,268	$ 313,318	$ 273,746	$ 287,011	$ 256,708	$ 1,149,530	$ 1,130,783	$ 1,133,885
Gross profit	138,321	128,762	135,855	120,705	134,010	119,781	130,489	116,823	523,643	501,103	515,349
Net income attributable to continuing operations	$ 25,216	$ 25,486	$ 29,306	$ 12,683	$ 20,840	$ 15,712	$ 23,722	$ 9,316	$ 92,691	$ 69,590	$ 87,447
Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations, basic (dollars per share)	$ 0.67	$ 0.68	$ 0.78	$ 0.34	$ 0.56	$ 0.42	$ 0.63	$ 0.25	$ 2.47	$ 1.86	$ 2.34
Earnings per share attributable to continuing operations, diluted (dollars per share)	$ 0.66	$ 0.67	$ 0.77	$ 0.34	$ 0.55	$ 0.41	$ 0.62	$ 0.25	$ 2.44	$ 1.84	$ 2.30
Net sales	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ 5,261	$ 8,854	$ 11,648	$ 11,384	$ 11,157	$ 5,261	$ 43,043
Gross profit	0	0	0	442	1,616	2,170	2,326	2,167	442	8,279
Net income attributable to discontinued operations	$ (300)	$ (1,300)	$ 1,777	$ (932)	$ 11	$ 264	$ 576	$ 366	$ (755)	$ 1,217	$ 1,059
Earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations, basic (dollars per share)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.04)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ 0.02	$ 0.01	$ (0.02)	$ 0.03	$ 0.03
Earnings per share attributable to discontinued operations, diluted (dollars per share)	$ (0.01)	$ (0.04)	$ 0.05	$ (0.03)	$ 0	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ (0.02)	$ 0.03	$ 0.03
Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale | South African Distribution Business and Zambian Operations
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales									$ 5,261	$ 43,043	$ 47,516
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Gain recorded in second quarter in discontinued operations			$ 2,500	$ 300

Schedule II - Valuation and 111

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 8,189	$ 7,821	$ 7,306
Charged to costs and expenses	1,471	1,676	1,249
Deductions from reserves, net	4,050	1,308	734
Balance at end of year	5,610	8,189	7,821
Income Tax Valuation Allowance
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	5,153	3,763	4,938
Charged to costs and expenses	150	1,390	0
Deductions from reserves, net	0	0	1,175
Balance at end of year	$ 5,303	$ 5,153	$ 3,763

Schedule II - Valuation and 112

Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Currency translation gains (losses)	$ (203)	$ (535)	$ (332)
Income Tax Valuation Allowance
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Currency translation gains (losses)	$ 113	$ 392	$ (643)