Restructuring-Related Charges and Accruals - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 880	$ 97	$ 1,125	$ 557
Workforce-related
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	880	73	1,125	346
Number of employees impacted by workforce reductions			46
Number of employees accepted other positions	2		2
Workforce-related | Brooks Product Solutions
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	196		369
Workforce-related | Brooks Global Services
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	514		580
Workforce-related | Brooks Life Science Systems
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	111		45
Workforce-related | Corporate Support functions
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	59		131
Facilities and other
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges		$ 24		$ 211