2.2.0.25truefalse42112 - Disclosure - PENSION, POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT LIABILITIES (Activity for Financial Assets Utilizing Level 3 Fair Value Measurements) (Details)truefalseIn Millionsfalse1falsefalseUSDfalsefalse1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) USD ($) / shares $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_2010http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00Unit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0Unit12Divide< MeasureSchema>http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso4217http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit15Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0USDUSD$2falsefalseUSDfalsefalse1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) USD ($) / shares $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_2009http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00Unit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit15Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit12Dividehttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso4217http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$2false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobserv ableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse179000000179falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse297000000297falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse3false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-93000000-93falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-155000000-155falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse4false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabe l1truefalsefalse2400000024falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3700000037falsefalsefalsefal sefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse5false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel1 truefalsefalse110000000110falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse179000000179falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse6false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102286http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standard< MeasureSchema>http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$4falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092265http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standard< MeasureSchema>http://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse7false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse585000000585falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse579000000579falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse8false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-56000000-56falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-19000000-19falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse9false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3200000032falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1400000014falsefalsefalsefalse falseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse10false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3600000036falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1100000011falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse11false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse597000000597falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse585000000585falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse12false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse5falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Equity Funds [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102295http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseEquity Funds [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_EquityFundsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$6falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Equity Funds [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092269http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseEquity Funds [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_EquityFundsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse13false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1100000011falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse14false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-1000000-1falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-2000000-2falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse15false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-2000000-2falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse16false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefals eMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse17false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse70000007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse18false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse7falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Corporate Debt Securities [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102294http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCorporate Debt Securities [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$8falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Corporate Debt Securities [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092268http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCorporate Debt Securities [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CorporateDebtSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse19false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse1800000018falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1600000016falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse20false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-6000000-6falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-4000000-4falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse21false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-2000000-2falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse22false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse20000002falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse23false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse1400000014falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1800000018falsefalsefalsefalsefalse< /Cells>Monetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse24false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse9falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Asset Backed Securities [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102288http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseAsset Backed Securities [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$10falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Asset Backed Securities [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092273http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseAsset Backed Securities [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_AssetBackedSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse25false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse60000006falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse60000006 falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse26false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-1000000-1falsefalsefalsefalsefa lseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse27false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-1000000-1falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse28false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse20000002falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse29false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse70000007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse60000006falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse30false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse11falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Collateralized Mortgage Obligation Bonds [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102293http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCollateralized Mortgage Obligation Bonds [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CollateralizedMortgageObligationsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$12falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Collateralized Mortgage Obligation Bonds [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092274http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCollateralized Mortgage Obligation Bonds [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CollateralizedMortgageObligationsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse31false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse1300000013falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1600 000016falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse32false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-5000000-5falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-6000000-6falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse33false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselab el1truefalsefalse20000002falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse30000003falsefalsefalsefalse< /hasSegments>falseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse34false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse1000000010falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1300000013falsefalsefalsefalsefalse< /Cells>Monetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse35false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse13falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Venture Capital and Limited Partnerships [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102287http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseVenture Capital and Limited Partnerships [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldibmy_VentureCapitalAndLimitedPartnershipsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$14falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Venture Capital and Limited Partnerships [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092267http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseVenture Capital and Limited Partnerships [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldibmy_VentureCapitalAndLimitedPartnershipsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse36false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse391000000391falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse373 000000373falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse37false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-25000000-25falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse38false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3400000034falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1600000016falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse39false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1500000015falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse40false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse415000000415falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse391000000391falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse41false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse15falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Real Estate [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102289http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReal Estate [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_RealEstateMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$16falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Real Estate [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092275http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReal Estate [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_RealEstateMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse42false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1300000013falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse43false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-8000000-8falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefa lseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse44false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-1000000-1falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse45false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-5000000-5falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse46false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse47false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.bms.com/taxonomy/role/disclosurepensionpostretirementandpostemploymentliabilitiesactivityforfinancialassetsutilizinglevel3fairvaluemeasurementsdetails< FootnoteIndexer />1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse17falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Insurance Contracts [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20102292http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInsurance Contracts [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldibmy_InsuranceContractsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$18falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxis} : Level 3 [Member] {us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxis} : Insurance Contracts [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20092266http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000014272duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLevel 3 [Member]us-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Memberus-gaap_DefinedBenefitPlanFairValueOfPlanAssetsByMeasurementAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInsurance Contracts [Member]us-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldibmy_InsuranceContractsMemberus-gaap_ScheduleOfTradingSecuritiesAndOtherTradingAssetsMajorTypesOfTradingSecuritiesAndAssetsAxisexplicitMemberUnit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalse48false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalsefalseperiodstartlabel1truefalsefalse141000000141falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse144000000144falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse49false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlementsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse-11000000-11falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-7000000-7falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3).Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(2) falsefalse50false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarningsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse20000002falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in earnings or resulted in a change in net asset value.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse51false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1400000014falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse20000002falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c(1) falsefalse52false0us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValueus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruefalseperiodendlabel 1truefalsefalse144000000144falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse141000000141falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis element represents an asset measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 157 -Paragraph 32 -Subparagraph c falsefalse251PENSION, POSTRETIREMENT AND POSTEMPLOYMENT LIABILITIES (Activity for Financial Assets Utilizing Level 3 Fair Value Measurements) (Details) (USD $)MillionsUnKnownUnKnownUnKnownfalsetrue