Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits - Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates (Detail)
12 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2012
Aug. 31, 2011
Aug. 31, 2010
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]      
Current health care trend assumption 8.00% 8.00% 8.00%
Ultimate health care trend rate 4.50% 4.50% 4.50%
Year ultimate health care trend is reached 2030 2029 2028