Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]

Valuation And Qualifying Accounts

MINE SAFETY APPLIANCES COMPANY AND AFFILIATES

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011

	2011		2010		2009
	(In thousands)
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
Balance at beginning of year	$	9,391	$	6,866	$	6,050
Additions—
Charged to costs and expenses		1,148		3,294		2,602
Deductions—
Deductions from reserves (1)		3,496		769		1,786
Balance at end of year		7,043		9,391		6,866
Income tax valuation allowance:
Balance at beginning of year	$	4,323	$	3,174	$	2,973
Additions—
Charged to costs and expenses		—		1,149		201
Deductions—
Deductions from reserves		1,546		—		—
Balance at end of year		2,777		4,323		3,174

(1) Bad debts written off, net of recoveries.