Long-Term Debt (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2012
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Total Debt	$ 1,467	$ 1,401
Less maturities due within one year included in current liabilities	379	368
Long-term debt	1,088	1,033
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Total Debt	0	0
Kentucky Industrial Building Revenue Bonds
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Total Debt	800	800
Iowa Industrial Waste Recycling Revenue Bonds
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Total Debt	400	400
Capital Lease Obligations And Other
Debt Disclosure [Line Items]
Total Debt	$ 267	$ 201