Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounts Payable Current Trade accounts payable Accounts Receivable Net Current Trade accounts receivable, net of allowances of $10,890 and $11,125 at April 30, 2013 and October 31, 2012, respectively Accretion Expense Discount accretion on insurance claims Accrued Income Taxes Current Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes Noncurrent Noncurrent income taxes payable Accrued Liabilities Current [Abstract] Accrued liabilities Accumulated Depreciation Depletion And Amortization Property Plant And Equipment Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Net Of Tax Unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Cumulative Changes In Net Gain Loss From Cash Flow Hedges Effect Net Of Tax Effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Accumulated change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Cumulative Changes In Net Gain Loss From Cash Flow Hedges Effect Pretax Effective portion of cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes Acquired Finite Lived Intangible Assets Weighted Average Useful Life Weighted-average amortization period for the acquired intangible assets Acquired Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Acquired Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Acquired Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Acquired Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Acquired Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Acquired Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Additional Information About Entitys Reportable Segments Changes in reportable segments Additional Paid In Capital Common Stock Additional paid-in capital This item represents the segment proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. Adjustment Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Adjustment for income from unconsolidated affiliates Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Total adjustments Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash provided by continuing operating activities: Air Serv [Member] Air Serv [Member] Air Serv All Other Segments [Member] Other Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Current Trade accounts receivable, allowance Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Amortization Of Intangible Assets Amortization of intangible assets Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share, amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Assets Total assets Assets [Abstract] ASSETS Assets Current Total current assets Assets Current [Abstract] Current assets Auction Rate Securities [Member] Auction Rate Securities The value of the auction rate security when it was redeemed, which was also equal to its par value and the value at the date of redemption. Auction Rate Securities Redeemed At Par Value Auction rate securities, redeemed Redemption of security by issuer Augustus [Member] Augustus [Member] Augustus This item represents the original cost of debt securities, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading, excluding adjustments such as accretion, amortization, collection of cash, previous other-than-temporary impairments recognized in earnings (less any cumulative-effect adjustments recognized, as defined), and fair value hedge accounting adjustments, if any. Available For Sale Debt Securities Original Amortized Cost Basis Investments in auction rate securities Available For Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less Than Twelve Months Fair Value Auction rate securities, continuous unrealized loss position, less than twelve months, fair value The earliest date, in a range of maturity dates, that a debt security categorized as neither trading nor held-to-maturity is scheduled to be repaid. Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Period Earliest Date Auction rate securities, earliest maturity period The latest date, in a range of maturity dates, that a debt security categorized as neither trading nor held-to-maturity is scheduled to be repaid. Available For Sale Securities Debt Maturities Period Latest Date Auction rate securities, latest maturity period Available For Sale Securities Debt Securities Noncurrent Balance at ending of year Balance at beginning of year Investments in auction rate securities Investments in auction rate securities, estimated fair value Available For Sale Securities Fair Value Disclosure Auction rate security, at fair value, that was not in unrealized loss position Investments in auction rate securities Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Loss Unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax Available For Sale Securities [Text Block] Auction Rate Securities Award Type [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Base Rate Loans [Member] Base Rate Loans [Member] Base Rate Loans Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis Of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Table] Basis Of Presentation [Table] Basis of Presentation [Table] Bojorquez [Member] Bojorquez [Member] Bojorquez Building And Energy Solutions [Member] Building And Energy Solutions [Member] Building & Energy Solutions Business Acquisition Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity [Abstract] Purchase price: Amount of purchase price consideration hold back by the Company for a specified period of time as security for the Seller's indemnification obligation under the Asset Purchase Agreement. Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Indemnification Holdbacks Business acquisition indemnification hold back amount Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Purchase Price Business acquisition aggregate purchase price Total cash consideration Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Transaction Cost Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Transaction Cost Direct acquisition costs Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Allocated to: Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Amortizable Intangible Assets Other intangible assets Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Assets Acquired Liabilities Assumed Net Net assets acquired Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Cash And Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Prepaid Expense And Other Assets Prepaid expenses and other Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Receivables Trade accounts receivable Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Liabilities Accounts Payable Trade accounts payable Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Liabilities Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to insurance claim liabilities of the acquired entity. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Liabilities Insurance Claims Insurance claims Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Deferred Income Taxes Asset Liability Net Net deferred income tax liabilities Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Goodwill Amount Goodwill Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Other Assets Other assets Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Other Liabilities Other Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Property Plant And Equipment Property, plant and equipment Working capital adjustment to (reduce) or increase, as applicable, the total purchase price and consideration transferred. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Working Capital Adjustment Business acquisition working capital adjustment Business Combination Acquired Receivables Estimated Uncollectible Uncollectable receivable amount Business Combination Acquired Receivables Gross Contractual Amount Fair value of accounts receivables acquired Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions Business Combination Preliminary Allocation of Purchase Price Other Disclosure [Table Text Block] Business Combination Preliminary Allocation Of Purchase Price Other Disclosure [Text Block] Preliminary Purchase Price and Related Allocations Business Combination Pro Forma Information Earnings Or Loss Of Acquiree Since Acquisition Date Actual Operating profit (loss) from acquired business Business Combination Pro Forma Information Revenue Of Acquiree Since Acquisition Date Actual Revenues from acquired business Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Combinations [Abstract] Calvert Jones [Member] Calvert Jones [Member] Calvert-Jones Carrying Reported Amount Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Cost Basis Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Fair Value Disclosure Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Period Increase Decrease Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by discontinued operating activities Total collateral for self-insurance obligations. Collateral For Self Insurance Obligations Total Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and contingencies Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Common Stock Dividends Per Share Declared Dividends declared per common share Common Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value Common Stock Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock Shares Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock Shares Outstanding Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock Value Common stock, $0.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; 54,712,177 and 54,393,907 shares issued and outstanding at April 30, 2013 and October 31, 2012, respectively Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Comprehensive income Cost Of Services Operating Costs And Expenses Total expenses Costs And Expenses [Abstract] Expenses Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities Customer Contracts And Relationships [Member] Customer Contracts And Relationships [Member] Customer Contracts And Relationships The financial covenant pertaining to the minimum consolidated net worth. Debt Covenant Minimum Adjusted Tangible Net Worth Consolidated net worth Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Line of Credit Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate Variable rate Debt Instrument Covenant, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, Minimum Debt Instrument Covenant Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio Minimum Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio Debt Instrument Covenant, Total Leverage Ratio, Maximum Debt Instrument Covenant Total Leverage Ratio Maximum Covenants maximum leverage ratio Debt Instrument Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan Fair value as of the balance sheet date of assets held in funded deferred compensation plans. Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Fair Value Disclosure Assets held in funded deferred compensation plan Deferred Income Tax Expense Benefit Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets Net Current Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Tax Assets Net Noncurrent Noncurrent deferred income taxes, net Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Of Gains Losses Reclassification adjustment for amortization of actuarial losses Amortization of actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan Expected Return On Plan Assets Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan Interest Cost Interest Defined Benefit Plan Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net expense Defined Benefit Plan Recognized Net Gain Loss Due To Settlements 1 Reclassification adjustment for settlement losses Settlement loss recognized Defined Benefit Plans And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan Service Cost Service cost Deposits Assets Noncurrent Insurance deposits Depreciation And Amortization Depreciation and amortization Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Description Of Terms Description of derivative agreement The effective date of the interest rate derivative. Derivative Effective Dates Derivative, effective date Derivative Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, fixed interest rate Derivative Inception Dates Derivative agreement date Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Reclassified From Accumulated O C I Into Income Effective Portion Net Amount of loss reclassified from AOCI into income Derivative Maturity Dates Derivative, maturity date Derivative Notional Amount Notional amount Description Of Types Of Products And Services From Which Each Reportable Segment Derives Its Revenues Activities Division Of Stock Issued [Axis] Division Of Stock Issued [Axis] Division Of Stock Issued [Axis] Division Of Stock Issued [Domain] Division Of Stock Issued [Domain] Division Of Stock Issued [Domain] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Type Document Type Domestic Country [Member] Domestic Country Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net income per common share Earnings Per Share Basic Basic Net income Earnings Per Share Basic [Abstract] Net income per common share-Basic Earnings Per Share Diluted Diluted Net income Earnings Per Share Diluted [Abstract] Net income per common share-Diluted Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Net Income Per Common Share Effective Income Tax Rate Continuing Operations Effective tax rate on income from continuing operations Employee Related Liabilities Current Compensation Employee Service Share Based Compensation Cash Received From Exercise Of Stock Options Cash received from exercise of options Disclosure of the aggregate tax effect realized from the exercise of stock options and the conversion of similar instruments during the annual period. Employee Service Share Based Compensation Tax Benefit Expense Realized From Exercise Of Stock Options Tax effect from exercise of options Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Equity [Abstract] Equity [Abstract] Equity Method Investment Dividends Or Distributions Distributions from unconsolidated affiliates Equity Method Investments Investments in unconsolidated affiliates, net Eurodollar Loans [Member] Eurodollar Loans [Member] Eurodollar Loans Euro Dollar Rate [Member] Euro Dollar Rate [Member] Eurodollar Rate Facility Services [Member] Facility Services [Member] Facility Services Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value By Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class Fair Value By Fair Value Hierarchy Level [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy Fair Value By Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Inputs Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 Fair Value Inputs Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 Fair Value Inputs Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Measurements Recurring [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring Basis Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate [Member] Federal Funds Rate Financial Assets Financial Assets Total carrying amounts of Financial Assets Financial Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Financial Assets Fair Value Disclosure Total Fair Value of Financial Assets Financial Instruments [Line Items] Financial Instruments [Line Items] Financial Instruments [Line Items] Financial Instruments [Table] Financial Instruments [Table] Financial Instruments [Table] Financial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Total Fair Value of Financial Liabilities Finite Lived Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization Other intangible assets, accumulated amortization Finite Lived Intangible Assets Net Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $115,041 and $100,180 at April 30, 2013 and October 31, 2012, respectively Forward starting swaps [Member] Forward Starting Swaps [Member] Forward starting swaps Future Period Two [Member] Future Period Two [Member] Effective date starting after April 30, 2013 Gain Loss On Sale Of Property Plant Equipment Gain on sale of assets Goodwill Goodwill Hha [Member] Hha [Member] HHA Income Loss From Continuing Operations Income from continuing operations Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Extraordinary Items Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income Loss From Continuing Operations Per Basic Share Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Continuing Operations Per Diluted Share Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Attributable To Reporting Entity Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Per Basic Share Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Per Diluted Share Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net Income from unconsolidated affiliates, net Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Credits And Adjustments Federal Employment based tax credits Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes Paid Net Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Examination, Years Open for Examination Income Tax Examination Years Open For Examination Income tax returns open for examination Income Tax Expense Benefit Provision for income taxes Increase Decrease In Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities Trade accounts payable and other accrued liabilities Increase Decrease In Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable Increase Decrease In Accrued Income Taxes Payable Income taxes payable The net change during the reporting period in the amount of known and estimated amounts recoverable as of the balance sheet date from insurance, for claims which exceed the Company's deductibles. Increase Decrease In Insurance Recoverables Insurance recoverables Increase Decrease In Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions: Increase Decrease In Other Operating Assets Other assets and long-term receivables Increase Decrease In Prepaid Deferred Expense And Other Assets Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase Decrease In Self Insurance Reserve Insurance claims The net change during the period for liabilities of unfunded pension and postretirement benefit plans (such as medical, dental and life insurance) and other obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet due to materiality considerations. Increase Decrease Retirement Plans And Other Non Current Liabilities Retirement plans and other non-current liabilities Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Share Based Payment Arrangements Effect of dilutive securities Insurance [Abstract] Insurance [Abstract] Insurance Claims Reserve Insurance Claims Reserve Insurance claim reserves Insurance claims reserve related to the Company's medical and dental self-insured plans. Insurance Claims Reserve For Medical And Dental Self Insured Plans Insurance claim reserves The deductible amount related to claims under the commercial insurance policy coverage related to workers' compensation, general liability, automobile and property damage. Insurance Deductibles Insurance deductibles per occurrence A tabular summary of letters of credit, surety bonds and restricted insurance deposits outstanding to collaterize self-insurance obligations. Insurance Disclosure Table [Text Block] Standby Letters of Credit, Surety Bonds and Restricted Insurance Deposits Outstanding to Collateralize Self-Insurance Obligations Insurance Disclosure [Text Block] Insurance Insurance Policies [Axis] Insurance Policies [Axis] Insurance Policies [Axis] Insurance Policies [Domain] Insurance Policies [Domain] Insurance Policies [Domain] The commercial insurance policy coverage related to workers' compensation, general liability, automobile and property damage for risk exposures above the policy deductibles. Insurance Policy Coverage Commercial insurance policies coverage The current portion, as of balance sheet date, of known and established amounts recoverable under claim insurance policies due within one year (or within normal operating cycle, if longer). Amounts are presented gross from insurance claim liabilities. Insurance Recoverables Current Insurance recoverables The noncurrent portion, as of balance sheet date, of known and established amounts recoverable under claim insurance policies expected to be received after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Amounts are presented gross from insurance claim liabilities. Insurance Recoverables Noncurrent Noncurrent insurance recoverables Insurance Settlements Receivable Insurance recoverables Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense Interest Income Expense Net Interest expense Interest Paid Interest paid on line of credit Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain Loss To Be Reclassified During Next 12 Months Net Unrealized net losses related to the interest rate swap contract Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability At Fair Value Fair value of interest rate swaps Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities At Fair Value Interest rate swaps The period of time in which the interest rates for auction rate securities reset through auctions. Interest Rate Reset Interval Interest rate revising interval Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Member] Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Member] Interest Rate Swap Agreements Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract] Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Janitorial [Member] Janitorial [Member] Janitorial Legal Claim 1 [Member] Legal Claim One [Member] Motion against others Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity Letters Of Credit [Line Items] Letters Of Credit [Line Items] Letters Of Credit [Line Items] Letters Of Credit Outstanding Amount Total letters of credit Letters Of Credit [Table] Letters Of Credit [Table] Letters Of Credit [Table] Letters Of Credit Under Facility Outstanding Letters Of Credit Under Facility Outstanding Standby letters of credit under the credit facility Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities And Stockholders Equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities And Stockholders Equity [Abstract] LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities Current Total current liabilities Liabilities Current [Abstract] Current liabilities Life to date amount of direct costs of the business combination including legal, accounting, and other costs incurred to consummate the business acquisition. Total acquisition costs incurred to date. Life To Date Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Transaction Costs Life to date business acquisition entity transaction cost Linc [Member] Linc [Member] Linc Line Of Credit Facility Amount Outstanding Line of credit, amount outstanding Line Of Credit Facility [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Maximum borrowing capacity under the terminated credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Line Of Credit Facility Borrowing Capacity Terminated Terminated existing line of credit borrowing capacity Line Of Credit Facility Covenant Terms Description of covenants under the Facility Line Of Credit Facility Expiration Date 1 Syndicated line of credit facility, expiration date Line Of Credit Facility Interest Rate Description Line of credit, interest rate terms Line Of Credit Facility Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity Syndicated line of credit, maximum capacity The maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility, if the Company elects the increase option, without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity With Restrictions Syndicated line of credit, optional maximum capacity at any time prior to the expiration (subject to receipt of commitments for the increased amount from existing and new lenders) Line Of Credit Facility Remaining Borrowing Capacity Line of credit, borrowing capacity currently available Line Of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line Of Credit Facility Unused Capacity Commitment Fee Percentage Percentage of commitment fee on the unused portion of the Facility Lines Of Credit Fair Value Disclosure Line of credit Litigation Claim Name [Axis] Litigation Claim Name [Axis] Litigation Claim Name [Axis] Litigation Claim Name [Domain] Litigation Claim Name [Domain] Litigation Claim Name [Domain] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Longterm Debt Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Longterm Debt Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long Term Line Of Credit Line of credit Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Accrual At Carrying Value Loss contingency amount accrued for probable losses Loss Contingency Damages Awarded Value Payment awarded to plaintiffs Loss Contingency Damages Sought Value Damages sought amount Loss Contingency Estimate Of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency New Claims Filed Number Number of claim suit filed Loss Contingency Range Of Possible Loss Maximum Amount of reasonably possible losses, Maximum Loss Contingency Range Of Possible Loss Minimum Amount of reasonably possible losses, Minimum Major Types Of Debt And Equity Securities [Axis] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities Major Types Of Debt And Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] The period of time, from the date the entity entered into the interest rate derivative, that the instrument will mature. Maturity Of Interest Rate Swaps Interest rate swap agreement period Maximum [Member] Maximum Medical and Dental Self Insurance Program [Member] Medical And Dental Self Insurance Program [Member] Medical and Dental Self Insurance Program Minimum [Member] Minimum Nature Of Operations Nature of Business Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Continuing Operations Net cash provided by continuing operating activities Net Income Loss Net income Net income Notes And Loans Receivable Net Noncurrent Other investments and long-term receivables The number of different issuers of the auction rate securities held by the Company. Number Of Financial Institution Number of different issuers the Company held investments in for auction rate securities Number Of Operating Segments Reportable operating segments Number Of States In Which Entity Operates Number of states in which entity operates One Source Services Inc [Member] One Source Services Inc [Member] OneSource Services Inc Operating Income Loss Operating profit Operating profit Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Basis of Presentation Other Accrued Liabilities Current Other Other Assets Current Notes receivable and other Other Assets Fair Value Disclosure Total Fair Value of Other Financial Assets Other Assets Noncurrent Other assets Other Comprehensive Income Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Before Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Unrealized gains (losses) on auction rate securities: Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Before Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Defined and post-retirement benefit plans adjustments: Other Comprehensive Income Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Before Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps: Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Before Tax Net unrealized gains on auction rate securities Other Comprehensive Income Loss Before Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment Before Tax Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Other comprehensive income: Before tax and net of reclassifications amount of pension and other postretirement benefit plans (gain) loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Other Comprehensive Income Loss Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Adjustment Before Tax After Reclassifications Net defined and post-retirement benefit plans adjustments Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Adjustment On Derivatives Included In Net Income Before Tax Reclassification adjustment for loss included in interest expense Other Comprehensive Income Loss Tax Income tax benefit (expense) related to other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Arising During Period Before Tax Unrealized losses arising during the period Other Comprehensive Income Unrealized Holding Gain Loss On Securities Arising During Period Before Tax Unrealized gains (losses) on auction rate securities Other Identifiable Intangibles [Member] Other Identifiable Intangibles [Member] Other Identifiable Intangibles Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit [Member] Post-Retirement Benefit Plans Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings [Line Items] Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Line Items] Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses Investments Availableforsale Securities Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses Investments Portion Recognized In Earnings Net Auction rate security credit loss impairment Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on auction rate security recognized in earnings Other Than Temporary Impairment Losses Investments Portion Recognized In Earnings Net Availableforsale Securities Reclassification adjustment for credit losses recognized in earnings Other-than-temporary credit loss recognized in earnings Parking [Member] Parking [Member] Parking Payments Of Dividends Common Stock Dividends paid Payments Of Financing Costs Deferred financing costs paid Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments To Acquire Equity Method Investments Investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments To Acquire Property Plant And Equipment Additions to property, plant and equipment Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Benefit Plans Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plans The financial covenant pertaining to the minimum consolidated net worth, as it relates to stockholders equity. Percentage Of Capital Surplus Aggregate increases in stockholders' equity The financial covenant pertaining to the minimum consolidated net worth, as it relates to net income earned each full fiscal quarter. Percentage Of Consolidated Net Income Consolidated net income earned Performance Shares [Member] Performance shares Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] Preferred Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock Value Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 500,000 shares authorized; none issued Prepaid Expense Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Taxes Prepaid income taxes Proceeds From Long Term Lines Of Credit Borrowings from line of credit Proceeds From Maturities Prepayments And Calls Of Available For Sale Securities Proceeds from redemption of auction rate security Proceeds From Payments For Other Financing Activities Other Proceeds From Repayments Of Bank Overdrafts Changes in book cash overdrafts Proceeds From Sale Of Property Plant And Equipment Proceeds from sale of assets and other Proceeds From Stock Options Exercised Proceeds from exercises of stock options (including income tax benefit) Property Plant And Equipment Net Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $123,574 and $107,771 at April 30, 2013 and October 31, 2012, respectively Provision For Doubtful Accounts Provision for bad debt Range [Axis] Range Range [Member] Range [Domain] Reconciliations of: (1) total revenues from reportable segments to the entity's consolidated revenues, and (2) total profit or loss from reportable segments, to the entity's consolidated income or loss from operations before income taxes, extraordinary items, and discontinued operations. Reconciliation Of Revenues And Operating Profit Loss From Segments To Consolidated Table [Text Block] Reportable Operating Segments Reimbursement Revenue Revenues related solely to the reimbursement of expenses Repayments Of Long Term Lines Of Credit Repayment of borrowings from line of credit Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents Noncurrent Restricted insurance deposits Restricted Stock Units R S U [Member] RSUs Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit Retained earnings This represents the noncurrent liability for unfunded pension and other postretirement benefit plans (such as medical, dental and life insurance) and other noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet due to materiality considerations. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Retirement Plan And Other Non Current Liabilities Retirement plans and other Tabular disclosure representing the roll-forward of the cost basis and fair value amounts of available for sale securities, reconciling the beginning balance of the period to the ending balance of the period, including any unrealized gains (losses) and other-than-temporary impairments, recognized during the period. Roll Forward Of Cost Basis And Fair Value Of Available For Sale Securities Table [Text Block] Changes in Cost Basis and Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities Sales Revenue Services Net Revenues Scenario Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast Scenario Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule Of Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule Of Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule Of Business Acquisitions By Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule Of Cash Flow Hedges Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Table [Text Block] Effect of Company's Interest Rate Swap Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Line Items] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted Table [Text Block] Calculation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share Tabular disclosure of financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis and select significant financial instruments. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Schedule Of Fair Value Financial Assets And Liabilities Table [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Schedule Of Net Benefit Costs Table [Text Block] Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost of Defined Benefit Plans and Post-Retirement Benefit Plans Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items] Schedule Of Other Liabilities [Line Items] Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items] Schedule of Other Liabilities [Table] Schedule Of Other Liabilities [Table] Schedule of Other Liabilities [Table] Schedule Of Other Than Temporary Impairment Credit Losses Recognized In Earnings [Table] Schedule of Other than Temporary Impairment, Credit Losses Recognized in Earnings [Table] Schedule of significant assumptions used to determine the fair value of auction rate securities. Schedule Of Securities Valuation Assumptions Table [Text Block] Significant Assumptions Used to Determine Fair Value of Auction Rate Securities Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Text Block] Segments and Their Activities Second Amendment [Member] Second Amendment [Member] Second Amendment The average expected life assumptions used to determine the fair value of auction rate securities. Securities Average Life Average expected lives The discount rate over London Interbank Offered Rate assumptions used to determine the fair value of auction rate securities. Securities Discount Rate Over London Interbank Offered Rate Libor plus the stated discount rate The fixed yield used as an input in determining the fair value for one of the Company's auction rate securities. Securities Yields Yields The fixed yield over London Interbank Offered Rate used as an input in determining the fair value for the one of the Company's auction rate securities. Securities Yields Over London Interbank Offered Rate Libor plus stated yield Security [Member] Security [Member] Security Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Table] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Table] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Table] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Self Insurance Programs [Member] Self Insurance Programs [Member] Self Insurance Programs Self Insurance Reserve Current Insurance claims Self Insurance Reserve Noncurrent Noncurrent insurance claims Self Insured Retention Amount Per Claim Self Insured Retention Amount Per Claim Self insurance retention amount per-claim Self Insured Retention Amount Per Claim For Certain Employee Medical and Dental Programs Self Insured Retention Amount Per Claim For Certain Employee Medical And Dental Programs Self insurance retention amount per-claim Selling General And Administrative Expense Selling, general and administrative Share Based Compensation Share-based compensation expense Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award Award Type And Plan Name [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Single Issuer Investment [Member] Single Issuer Investment [Member] Single Issuer Investment The amount of letters issued by a bank to serve as a guarantee for payments made to a specified person under specified conditions. This amount decreases the available balance under the line of credit. Standby Letters Of Credit Standby letters of credit Standby Letters Of Credit [Member] Standby Letters of Credit State And Local Jurisdiction [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction Statement Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Business Segments Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Stockholders Equity Total stockholders' equity Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stock Option [Member] Stock options Stock Options [Member] Stock options Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental Data: The amount of bonds, as of the end of the accounting period, issued by a second party, guaranteeing the fulfillment of the Company's obligations to a third party. In the event that the Company does not meet its obligations, the third party will recover its losses via the bond. Surety Bonds Surety bonds Swing Line Loan [Member] Swing Line Loan [Member] Swing Line Loan Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for payroll, sales, use, real, property and other taxes. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Taxes Other Than Income Current Taxes-other than income TEGG Corporation [Member] T E G G Corporation [Member] TEGG Total Financial Assets Total Financial Assets Total Financial Assets Total Financial Liabilities Total Financial Liabilities Total Financial Liabilities Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Type of Insurance [Axis] Type Of Insurance [Axis] Type of Insurance [Axis] Type of Insurance [Domain] Type Of Insurance [Domain] Type of Insurance [Domain] Unallocated Amount To Segment [Member] Corporate Unrealized Gain Loss On Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net unrealized (losses) gains on interest rate swaps Amount of loss recognized in AOCI on derivative Unrealized gain on auction rate securities, pre-tax, accumulated in other comprehensive loss. Unrealized Gain On Auction Rate Securities Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Unrealized gains included in accumulated other comprehensive loss UnrealizedLossOnDerivatives [Member] Unrealized Loss On Derivatives [Member] Unrealized Loss On Derivatives Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefit Unrecognized Tax Benefits Interest On Income Taxes Accrued Unrecognized tax benefits, accrued interest Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities: Weighted Average Number Of Diluted Shares Outstanding Diluted Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding-Diluted Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic Basic Weighted-average common and common equivalent shares outstanding-Basic