Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net (loss) income	$ (1,974)	$ 1,731	$ 1,103
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments during the period	(241)	(216)	(61)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, net of tax (2015 - $15; 2014 - $9; 2013 - $(23))	(15)	(29)	33
Other comprehensive loss	(256)	(245)	(28)
Comprehensive (loss) income	(2,230)	1,486	1,075
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests	7	(12)	(7)
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Baker Hughes	$ (2,223)	$ 1,474	$ 1,068