RATIONALIZATION AND ASSET IMPAIRMENTS (Summary of Activity Related to Rationalization Liabilities by Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 3,276
Payments and other adjustments	(2,437)
Charged to expense	18
Balance at the end of the period	857
North America Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	466
Payments and other adjustments	(217)
Charged to expense	(47)
Balance at the end of the period	202
Europe Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	2,435
Payments and other adjustments	(2,175)
Charged to expense	46
Balance at the end of the period	306
Asia Pacific Welding
Rationalization and Asset Impairments
Balance at the beginning of the period	375
Payments and other adjustments	(45)
Charged to expense	19
Balance at the end of the period	$ 349