EXHIBIT 23.1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Brady Corporation: We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements Nos. 333-99615, 333-38857, 333-38859, 333-44505 and 333-92417 of Brady Corporation on Forms S-8 of our reports dated September 9, 2002, appearing in and incorporated by reference in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Brady Corporation for the year ended July 31, 2002. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP Milwaukee, Wisconsin October 21, 2002