Goderich Tornado (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 6 Months Ended 11 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012
Mar. 31, 2012
Jun. 30, 2012
Jun. 30, 2011
Jun. 30, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Product cost:            
Property, plant and equipment impairment charges $ 0   $ 0      
Site clean-up and restoration costs 1.1   7.0      
Estimated insurance recoveries recognized (1.1)   (7.0)      
Net impact on product cost excluding business interruption 0   0      
Total insurance advances 1.1 25.0 7.0      
Deferred revenue     18      
Insurance advances for operating purposes, Goderich tornado     18.0 0 50.0  
Total amount recorded in deferred revenue since the tornado         27.5  
Total insurance advances received and recorded as reduction to salt product costs         21.5  
Impairment charges related to damaged property, plant, and equipment           4.8
Estimated recoverable business interruption losses $ 3   $ 17   $ 33