Changes in Goodwill Allocated to Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2014	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2014 DMS	Aug. 31, 2013 DMS	Aug. 31, 2014 E&I	Aug. 31, 2013 E&I	Aug. 31, 2014 HVS	Aug. 31, 2013 HVS	Aug. 31, 2012 HVS
Goodwill [Line Items]
Gross, Beginning balance	$ 1,368,833	$ 1,029,860	$ 894,433	$ 555,769	$ 342,131	$ 341,822	$ 132,269	$ 132,269	$ 132,269
Accumulated Impairment, Beginning balance	(1,019,822)	(1,019,822)	(555,769)	(555,769)	(331,784)	(331,784)	(132,269)	(132,269)	(132,269)
Acquisitions & Adjustments	34,696	338,664	34,696	338,664
Foreign Currency Impact	(63)	309	32		(95)	309
Gross, Ending balance	1,403,466	1,368,833	929,161	894,433	342,036	342,131	132,269	132,269	132,269
Accumulated Impairment, Ending balance	(1,019,822)	(1,019,822)	(555,769)	(555,769)	(331,784)	(331,784)	(132,269)	(132,269)	(132,269)
Net Balance	$ 383,644	$ 349,011	$ 373,392	$ 338,664	$ 10,252	$ 10,347	$ 0	$ 0