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Danaher

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Industry Medical - Diagnostics & Research
Employees 10,000+
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FY2016 Annual Report · Danaher
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2016

ANNUAL REPORT

“ I see our future as a bright 
one. We have a terrific team 
of hard-working, dedicated 
associates around the 
world. We have exciting 
new products coming out, 
providing customers with 
new and innovative solutions 
to their daily work.”  

THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.
President and Chief Executive Officer

FINANCIAL OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS
(dollars in millions except per share data and number of associates) 

Sales

Operating Profit

Net Earnings 

Net Earnings Per Share (diluted) 

Operating Cash Flow

Capital Expenditures

Free Cash Flow  
(Operating Cash Flow less Capital Expenditures) 

Number of Associates

Total Assets*

Total Debt **

Stockholders’ Equity

Total Capitalization  
(Total Debt plus Stockholders’ Equity)

2016

2015

$  16,882.4

$  14,433.7

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2,750.9

2,153.4

3.08

3,087.5

589.6

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2,162.2

1,746.7

2.47

2,832.2

512.9

$ 

2,497.9

$ 

2,319.3

62,000

59,000

$  45,295.3

$  48,222.2

$  12,269.0

$  12,870.4

$  23,076.8

$  23,764.0

$  35,345.8

$  36,634.4

* Related to both continuing and discontinued operations 

 **  Long-Term Debt ($9,674.2 for 2016 and $12,025.2 for 2015) plus Notes Payable  
and Current Portion of Long-Term Debt ($2,494.8 for 2016 and $845.2 for 2015)

All financial data set forth in this annual report relates solely to  
continuing operations unless otherwise indicated.

Life 
Sciences

Every day, scientists around the world 

are working to understand the causes 

of and treatments for chronic diseases 

and infections at the cellular level. 

Our Life Sciences businesses make 

this leading-edge scientific research 

possible, and our capabilities  

extend beyond research to power  

the creation of biopharmaceuticals,  

cell therapies and more.

2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

•   Pall continues its strong track record of innovation, 

launching 50% more new products this year compared  

to 2015 and delivering these innovations to the market  

faster overall

•   The acquisition of Phenomenex adds best-in-class 

separations consumables technology and complements our 

offering at SCIEX, enabling us to provide comprehensive 

solutions for analytical scientists

•   SCIEX launches the X500B QTOF System, the second model 

within the compact, easy-to-use X-Series product family that 

helps scientists of any skill level perform complex biologics 

characterization

•   Beckman Coulter collaborates with one of our diagnostics 

businesses, Radiometer, to create the Vi-CELL MetaFlex, 

a first-of-its-kind biochemistry analyzer that supports 

biopharmaceutical discovery and development

2016 SEGMENT REVENUE:

MIX
•  60% Consumables
•  40% Equipment

GEOGRAPHY
•  34% NA
•  29% WE
•  27% HGM
•  10% ROW

$5.4B

REVENUE

15.3%

OPERATING MARGIN

9 out of 12 biologics 
approved by the FDA  
last year specified  
Pall products in  
their processes.

Sciex
X500R QTOF

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

Leica Biosystems’ 
solutions are used in 
every top 50 U.S. cancer 
center, and through 
“Vision 24” Leica’s goal is 
to make cancer diagnosis 
possible within 24 hours 
of biopsy.

Beckman Coulter
DxH500

Cepheid
GeneXpert® XVI

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

2016 SEGMENT REVENUE:

MIX
•  80% Consumables
•  20% Equipment

GEOGRAPHY
•  39% NA
•  35% HGM
•  19% WE
•  7% ROW

$5.0B

REVENUE

15.6%

OPERATING MARGIN

Diagnostics

Our Diagnostics businesses provide 

critical tools and software for clinicians 

to safeguard patient health and improve 

diagnostic confidence wherever 

health care happens — from a family 

physician’s office to leading trauma 

and cancer hospitals, laboratories 

and critical care units.  Our laboratory 

solutions and data access and 

management systems help automate  

and improve laboratory efficiencies  

and workflows.

2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

•   Beckman Coulter marks its fifth anniversary as part of 

Danaher, achieving meaningful improvements in quality 

and delivery to enhance the customer experience 

•   The acquisition of Cepheid strengthens our molecular 

diagnostics position with the largest installed base and 
test menu in the molecular testing segment, and a strong 

track record of innovation

•   Beckman Coulter Diagnostics opens an R&D center in 

Suzhou, China to develop instruments and assays for 

customers in the region

•   Radiometer launches the TCM5 FLEX, a new easy-to-

use and reliable transcutaneous monitor that measures 

ventilation for patients in critical condition, one of many 

new products across the platform

Dental

We enable dental professionals to 

provide the highest level of patient care 

and optimize their work environments 

and clinical outcomes. Our precision 

tools and software help clinicians 

work efficiently to keep teeth and 

gums healthy, and our implants and 

orthodontic offerings help to improve 

the aesthetics of the human smile.

2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

•   The dental team is committed to driving continuous 

operating improvements and completed more than  

50 kaizens this year 

•   China annual dental revenue has grown from about  

$15 million in 2010 to more than $150 million in 2016 

•   We continued to increase our investment in R&D as 

a percentage of sales to enhance innovation and our 

cadence of new product development

•   Since joining Danaher in 2015, Nobel Biocare has 

achieved more than 500 basis points of operating  

margin expansion 

•   Dental Products Report recognizes two Danaher dental 

associates with the honor of “Top 25 Women in Dentistry”

2016 SEGMENT REVENUE:

MIX
•  70% Consumables
•  30% Equipment

GEOGRAPHY
•  51% NA
•  23% WE
•  19% HGM
•  7% ROW

$2.8B

REVENUE

15.1%

OPERATING MARGIN

Our dental products 
are used in more than 
95% of dentist offices 
around the world.

NobelClinician
Digital Treatment
Planning

KaVo
SMARTmatic 
S10 and S20

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

More than 1 billion 
gallons of water a day pass 
through 56 of Trojan’s 
ultraviolet disinfection 
systems at the world’s 
largest drinking water UV 
facility in Westchester 
County, New York.

Hach
TU5 Series Lab &  
Process Turbidimeters

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

2016 SEGMENT REVENUE:

MIX
•  50% Consumables
•  50% Equipment

GEOGRAPHY
•  42% NA
•  31% HGM
•  23% WE
•  4% ROW

$3.7B

REVENUE

23.6%

OPERATING MARGIN

Environmental 
& Applied  
Solutions –
Water Quality

Water is critical to every person 
on the planet and demand for this 
precious resource is increasing. Our 
Water Quality businesses help protect 
the global water supply and ensure 
environmental stewardship. We deliver 
precision instrumentation, advanced 
purification technology and treatment 
solutions to help analyze, disinfect 
and manage the world’s water — from 
municipal and wastewater treatment 
facilities to lakes, streams and oceans.

2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

•   Hach’s online systems plays a critical role monitoring 

water quality and safety across the Rio de Janeiro 

Olympic complex

•   ChemTreat achieves its 49th consecutive year of 

revenue growth – a testament to the team’s commitment 
to DBS and their best-in-class commercial execution

•   TrojanUVSigna™ is able to disinfect up to 535 million 

gallons of wastewater per day at a new Water 

Reclamation Plant in Skokie, Illinois that serves  

1.3 million people

•   Hach launches the TU5 series of turbidity meters, 

dramatically improving water quality testing for customers

Environmental 
& Applied  
Solutions –
Product Identification

Our Product Identification businesses 

touch nearly every step of the 

packaging value chain — from color 

and package management to marking, 

coding and tracking of consumer, 

industrial and pharmaceutical goods.  

Our solutions help to ensure freshness, 

consistency and accuracy of products 

throughout the global supply chain.

2016 HIGHLIGHTS:

•   Videojet Remote Service offering reduces customer 

downtime and cost-to-serve, and contributes to double-

digit service revenue growth

•   X-Rite expands beyond color with Digital Appearance 

Management breakthrough technology

•   Pantone announces “Greenery” as 2017 Color of the Year

•   The acquisition of Laetus adds new track and trace 

capabilities for products and packages to protect global 

supply chains from counterfeit pharmaceutical products

•   Esko, with MediaBeacon, introduces the industry-first 

solution enabling consumer goods brands to manage digital 

assets across all physical and digital marketing channels

With more than 
345,000 units installed 
worldwide, our 
customers rely on 
Videojet products 
to print on over ten 
billion products daily.

Esko
Integrated Packaging 
Workflow and  
Marketing Asset  
Management Solution

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

Dear Shareholders,

2016 was a year of transformation for Danaher, as we 

continued to build a stronger, more strategic portfolio 

powered by the Danaher Business System (DBS).

We introduced breakthrough technologies in flow 

cytometry, mass spectrometry, track and trace visual 

inspection, and water analytics to help our customers 

improve health and safety, worldwide. We closed 

eight acquisitions, deploying nearly $5 billion across 

all five platforms, significantly strengthening our 

leadership positions in Diagnostics and Life Sciences. 

We also completed the separation of Fortive 

Corporation, successfully launching a new industrial 

growth company and strategically strengthening 

Danaher’s position as a multi-industry science and 

technology company.

THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.
President and Chief Executive Officer

With significant portfolio evolution taking place in such a 

short time, flawless execution was critical, and our team 

delivered outstanding results in 2016: 

•   Diluted EPS growth of more than 20%.

•   Core revenue growth, totaling 3% in a challenging 

macro environment and nearly $17 billion in revenue.

•   GAAP gross margin and core operating margin each 

expanded by more than 100 basis points.

Our Three Strategic Priorities

We Compete for Shareholders is one of the Core Values we 

live by at Danaher. We will strive to create shareholder value 

by aligning our efforts around three strategic priorities.

1.  Strengthening our competitive advantage through 

consistent and continuous application of DBS tools. 

As our portfolio evolves, DBS evolves with it. Over three 

•   $2.5 billion in free cash flow with a free cash flow to 

decades, the broad set of DBS tools spanning growth, 

net income conversion ratio of more than 115%—the 

lean and leadership continue to be the driving force for 

25th consecutive year in which our free cash flow 

continuous improvement across every function in  

has exceeded net income.

our business. 

Driven as always by our firm commitment to DBS and our 

We invest in high-impact growth opportunities to accelerate 

Core Values, we begin this next chapter in our company’s 

product development, increase market penetration, and 

journey with a stronger portfolio as well as a clear sense  

build scale. Our success stories in doing so are many. Our 

of purpose.

A Multi-Industry Science and 
Technology Company

Across our strategic platforms of Life Sciences, 

Diagnostics, Dental, Water Quality and Product 

team has applied the DBS growth tools to expand our dental 

business in China from more than $15 million in annual sales 

to over $150 million in annual sales in just 5 years. 

We have a long history of using our lean tools to improve 

productivity and resulting operating margins. Pall, a 

cornerstone of our Life Sciences platform, has embraced 

DBS to streamline operations, serving customers better 

Identification, we have built a portfolio of outstanding 

and faster, and redeploying those savings to strengthen its 

businesses and brands that enjoy market-leading positions 

innovation pipeline for future growth. 

and resilient business models with strong recurring revenue 

streams. Today, two-thirds of our revenue is derived from 

We lead through DBS, and we focus on building a strong 

recurring revenue, providing us with reduced volatility and 

leadership pipeline to ensure succession depth for  

more intimate customer relationships. Our businesses are 

critical roles and to activate DBS from within as we  

well positioned to capitalize on significant growth drivers 

make acquisitions. 

such as changing regulatory requirements, improving 

standards of care in high growth markets, and emerging 

Our deep organizational commitment to continuous 

technologies. The innovation pipeline that powers our future 

improvement through DBS is essential as we continue to 

is full of promise for driving growth and improving quality of 

strengthen our portfolio and develop the technologies of  

life around the globe. 

the future.  

2016 DANAHER ANNUAL REPORT

 
 
“ Our focus on talent 
development fuels our 
performance and helps us 
live our Shared Purpose 
by realizing the potential 
of each of our associates.” 

3.  Consistently investing in attracting and retaining 

exceptional talent. 

In 2016 and early 2017, we were pleased to welcome two 

new members to our executive leadership team; Brian Ellis 

as Senior Vice President-General Counsel and Rainer Blair, 

our newest Executive Vice President, overseeing the Life 

Sciences platform. Additionally, we welcomed two new 

Directors to our Board. Robert Hugin, Executive Chairman 

of the Board of Directors for Celgene Corporation, and 

Raymond Stevens, Ph.D., Provost Professor of Biological 

Sciences and Chemistry, and Director of The Bridge 

Institute, at The University of Southern California. Each of 

these leaders brings a wealth of experience and knowledge 

2.  Enhancing our portfolio in attractive science and 

technology markets via strategic capital allocation.

to his position. 

Our capital allocation strategy focuses primarily on 

mergers and acquisitions (M&A), where we believe we 

can add substantial value to our portfolio over the long-

term. We assess a number of different strategic vectors 

to position ourselves for long-term success. In some 

At Danaher, our 62,000 associates around the world have 

a Shared Purpose—Helping Realize Life’s Potential. This 

Shared Purpose gives our work meaning and inspires us 

to achieve our most ambitious goals. Our focus on talent 

development fuels our performance and helps us live our 

Shared Purpose by realizing the potential of each of  

cases, we seek out large opportunities for value creation, 

our associates. 

along the lines of Pall and Beckman Coulter. We also 

increase our reach by extending our cornerstone positions 

through bolt-on acquisitions. This strategy helped us look 

beyond analytics in Water Quality to water treatment with 

Trojan Technologies and ChemTreat, and take Product 

Identification beyond coding and marking to the packaging 

workflow with Esko, X-Rite and Laetus. 

In other cases, our goal is to add critical new technology 

and lay a strong foundation for accelerated growth 

anchored in breakthrough innovation. Cepheid and 

Phenomenex are the most recent examples of innovative 

market leaders in Diagnostics and Life Sciences.  

Finally, we continue to expand our global footprint through 

acquisitions in high-growth markets, as we have done with 

our Water Quality businesses in Latin America. We believe 

this diversified M&A strategy strengthens the portfolio we 

have today as we seek to drive compounding returns and 

shareholder value over the long-term.

Looking to the Future

I am humbled to be a part of this extraordinary company, 

and to be part of its continual evolution. Our commitment 

to continuous improvement is evergreen, our journey 

continues. There are always opportunities to build a better 

portfolio, to build better businesses within that portfolio, 

and to build better technologies that advance science and 

technology for the good of our customers, our communities 

and the world at large. We will never stop pushing 

ourselves to deliver meaningful and lasting value.

Thank you for the continued trust you place in our team here 

at Danaher. I look forward to rewarding that trust in the years 

to come.

THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.

President and Chief Executive Officer

 
2016

FORM 10-K

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

____________________________________

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from         to    

Commission File Number: 1-8089

 ____________________________________

DANAHER CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)

2200 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W., Suite 800W
Washington, D.C.
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

59-1995548
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)

20037-1701
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 202-828-0850

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class
Common Stock $.01 par value
€500,000,000 Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2017
€600,000,000 1.000% Senior Notes due 2019
€800,000,000 1.700% Senior Notes due 2022
€800,000,000 2.500% Senior Notes due 2025

Name of Each Exchange On Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange
New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

NONE

(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes   

     No  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes   

     No  

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to 
file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.     Yes   

     No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every 
Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 
months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes   

     No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and 
will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by 
reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K  

.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a 
smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” 
in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer

Accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act)

Yes   

     No  

As of February 9, 2017, the number of shares of Registrant’s common stock outstanding was 693,280,277.  The aggregate 
market value of common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant on July 1, 2016 was $62.0 billion, based upon the 
closing price of the Registrant’s common stock as quoted on the New York Stock Exchange composite tape on such date.

EXHIBIT INDEX APPEARS ON PAGE 110 

 ____________________________________

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Part III incorporates certain information by reference from the Registrant’s proxy statement for its 2017 annual meeting of 
shareholders to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after Registrant’s fiscal year-end.  With the exception of 
the sections of the 2017 Proxy Statement specifically incorporated herein by reference, the 2017 Proxy Statement is not deemed 
to be filed as part of this Form 10-K.

INFORMATION RELATING TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements included or incorporated by reference in this Annual Report, in other documents we file with or furnish to 
the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), in our press releases, webcasts, conference calls, materials delivered to 
shareholders and other communications, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States federal 
securities laws.  All statements other than historical factual information are forward-looking statements, including without 
limitation statements regarding: projections of revenue, expenses, profit, profit margins, tax rates, tax provisions, cash flows, 
pension and benefit obligations and funding requirements, our liquidity position or other projected financial measures; 
management’s plans and strategies for future operations, including statements relating to anticipated operating performance, 
cost reductions, restructuring activities, new product and service developments, competitive strengths or market position, 
acquisitions and the integration thereof, divestitures, spin-offs, split-offs or other distributions, strategic opportunities, securities 
offerings, stock repurchases, dividends and executive compensation; growth, declines and other trends in markets we sell into; 
new or modified laws, regulations and accounting pronouncements; regulatory approvals; outstanding claims, legal 
proceedings, tax audits and assessments and other contingent liabilities; foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations in 
those rates; general economic and capital markets conditions; the timing of any of the foregoing; assumptions underlying any 
of the foregoing; and any other statements that address events or developments that Danaher intends or believes will or may 
occur in the future.  Terminology such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “should,” “could,” “intend,” “will,” “plan,” “expect,” 
“estimate,” “project,” “target,” “may,” “possible,” “potential,” “forecast” and “positioned” and similar references to future 
periods are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements are accompanied by 
such words.  Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their 
experience and perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe 
to be appropriate.  These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not 
limited to the risks and uncertainties set forth under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in this Annual Report.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from the results, 
developments and business decisions contemplated by our forward-looking statements.  Accordingly, you should not place 
undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the report, 
document, press release, webcast, call, materials or other communication in which they are made.  Except to the extent required 
by applicable law, we do not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of 
new information, future events and developments or otherwise.

In this Annual Report, the terms “Danaher” or the “Company” refer to Danaher Corporation, Danaher Corporation and its 
consolidated subsidiaries or the consolidated subsidiaries of Danaher Corporation, as the context requires.  Unless otherwise 
indicated, all amounts in this Annual Report refer to continuing operations.

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

General

Danaher Corporation designs, manufactures and markets professional, medical, industrial and commercial products and 
services, which are typically characterized by strong brand names, innovative technology and major market positions.  
Danaher’s research and development, manufacturing, sales, distribution, service and administrative facilities are located in 
more than 60 countries.  Danaher’s business consists of four segments: Life Sciences; Diagnostics; Dental; and Environmental 
& Applied Solutions.  Danaher strives to create shareholder value primarily through three strategic priorities:

•

•

•

enhancing its portfolio in attractive science and technology markets through strategic capital allocation;

strengthening its competitive advantage through consistent application of the DANAHER BUSINESS SYSTEM
(“DBS”) tools; and

consistently attracting and retaining exceptional talent.

Danaher measures its progress against these strategic priorities over the long-term based primarily on the following financial 
metrics:

•

•

core revenue growth;

core operating margin expansion;

1

•

•

free cash flow generation; and

return-on-invested capital.

The Company’s businesses use a set of growth, lean and leadership tools and processes, known as the DANAHER BUSINESS 
SYSTEM, which are designed to continuously improve business performance in the critical areas of quality, delivery, cost, 
growth and innovation.  Within the DBS framework, the Company pursues a number of ongoing strategic initiatives relating to 
idea generation, product development and commercialization, global sourcing of materials and services, manufacturing 
improvement and sales and marketing.

To further these objectives, the Company also acquires businesses that either strategically fit within its existing business 
portfolio or expand its portfolio into a new and attractive business area.  Given the rapid pace of technological development and 
the specialized expertise typical of Danaher’s served markets, acquisitions also provide the Company access to important new 
technologies and domain expertise.  Danaher believes there are many acquisition opportunities available within its targeted 
markets.  The extent to which Danaher consummates and effectively integrates appropriate acquisitions will affect its overall 
growth and operating results.  Danaher also continually assesses the strategic fit of its existing businesses and may dispose of 
businesses that are deemed not to fit with its strategic plan or are not achieving the desired return on investment.

Danaher Corporation, originally DMG, Inc., was organized in 1969 as a Massachusetts real estate investment trust.  In 1978 it 
was reorganized as a Florida corporation under the name Diversified Mortgage Investors, Inc. which in a second reorganization 
in 1980 became a subsidiary of a newly created holding company named DMG, Inc.  DMG, Inc. adopted the name Danaher in 
1984 and was reincorporated as a Delaware corporation in 1986.

On July 2, 2016 (the “Distribution Date”), Danaher completed the separation (the “Separation”) of its former Test & 
Measurement segment, Industrial Technologies segment (excluding the product identification businesses) and retail/commercial 
petroleum business by distributing to Danaher stockholders on a pro rata basis all of the issued and outstanding common stock 
of Fortive Corporation (“Fortive”), the entity Danaher incorporated to hold such businesses.  To effect the Separation, Danaher 
distributed to its stockholders one share of Fortive common stock for every two shares of Danaher common stock outstanding 
as of June 15, 2016, the record date for the distribution. 

Sales in 2016 by geographic destination (geographic destination refers to the geographic area where the final sale to the 
Company’s customer is made) were: North America, 40% (including 38% in the United States); Europe, 28%; Asia/Australia, 
24% and all other regions, 8%.  For additional information regarding sales by geography, refer to Note 19 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.  The spin-off of Fortive in the third quarter of 2016 changed the 
geographic mix of sales for Danaher, as the Fortive businesses realize a lower percentage of overall sales from outside North 
America than the Danaher businesses remaining after the Separation.

Reportable Segments

The table below describes the percentage of total annual revenues attributable to each of the four segments over each of the last 
three years ended December 31, 2016.  For additional information regarding sales, operating profit and identifiable assets by 
segment, refer to Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.  Unless otherwise indicated, 
references to sales in this Annual Report refer to sales from continuing operations.

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

LIFE SCIENCES

2016

2015

2014

32%

30%

16%

22%

23%

33%

19%

25%

19%

36%

17%

28%

The Company’s Life Sciences segment offers a broad range of research tools that scientists use to study the basic building 
blocks of life, including genes, proteins, metabolites and cells, in order to understand the causes of disease, identify new 
therapies and test new drugs and vaccines.  The segment, through its Pall Corporation (“Pall”) business, is also a leading 
provider of filtration, separation and purification technologies to the biopharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical, aerospace, 
microelectronics and general industrial sectors.  Sales in 2016 for this segment by geographic destination were: North America, 
35%; Europe, 31%; Asia/Australia, 28% and all other regions, 6%.

2

Danaher established the life sciences business in 2005 through the acquisition of Leica Microsystems and has expanded the 
business through numerous subsequent acquisitions, including the acquisitions of AB Sciex and Molecular Devices in 2010, 
Beckman Coulter in 2011, Pall Corporation in 2015 and Phenomenex in 2016.  The Life Sciences segment consists of the 
following businesses.

Microscopy—The microscopy business is a leading global provider of professional microscopes designed to manipulate, 
preserve and capture images of and enhance the user’s visualization and analysis of microscopic structures.  The Company’s 
microscopy products include:

• 

• 

• 

• 

laser scanning (confocal) microscopes;

compound microscopes and related equipment;

surgical and other stereo microscopes; and 

specimen preparation products for electron microscopy.

Typical users of these products include research, medical and surgical professionals operating in research and pathology 
laboratories, academic settings and surgical theaters.

Mass Spectrometry—The business is a leading global provider of high-end mass spectrometers as well as related consumable 
chromatography columns and sample preparation extraction products.  Mass spectrometry is a technique for identifying, 
analyzing and quantifying elements, chemical compounds and biological molecules, individually or in complex mixtures.  The 
mass spectrometers utilize various combinations of quadrupole, time-of-flight and ion trap technologies, and are typically used 
in conjunction with a liquid chromatography instrument.  The business’ mass spectrometer systems and related products are 
used in numerous applications such as drug discovery and clinical development of therapeutics as well as in basic research, 
clinical testing, food and beverage quality testing and environmental testing.  To support installations around the world, the 
business provides implementation, validation, training, maintenance and support from the global services network.  Typical 
users of these mass spectrometry products include molecular biologists, bioanalytical chemists, toxicologists, and forensic 
scientists as well as quality assurance and quality control technicians.  The business also provides high-performance 
bioanalytical measurement systems, including microplate readers, automated cellular screening products and associated 
reagents, and imaging software.  Typical users of these products include biologists and chemists engaged in research and drug 
discovery, who use these products to determine electrical or chemical activity in cell samples.

The business also offers workflow instruments and consumables that help researchers analyze genomic, protein and cellular 
information.  Key product areas include sample preparation equipment such as centrifugation and capillary electrophoresis 
instrumentation and consumables; liquid handling automation instruments and associated consumables; flow cytometry 
instrumentation and associated antibodies and reagents; and particle characterization instrumentation.  Researchers use these 
products to study biological function in the pursuit of basic research, as well as therapeutic and diagnostic development and 
typical users include pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, universities, medical schools and research institutions and 
in some cases industrial manufacturers.

Filtration—Danaher entered the filtration, separation and purification technologies segment in 2015 through the acquisition of 
Pall.  Pall is a leading provider of products used to remove solid, liquid and gaseous contaminants from a variety of liquids and 
gases, consisting primarily of filtration consumables and to a lesser extent systems that incorporate filtration consumables and 
associated  hardware.    Pall’s  core  materials  and  technologies  can  be  applied  in  many  ways  to  solve  complex  fluid  separation 
challenges, and are sold across a wide array of applications in two primary business groups:

•  Life Sciences.  Pall’s life sciences technologies facilitate the process of drug discovery, development, regulatory 
validation and production and are sold to biopharmaceutical, food and beverage and medical customers.  In the 
biopharmaceutical area, the business sells a broad line of filtration and purification technologies, single use bioreactors 
and associated accessories, hardware and engineered systems primarily to pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical 
companies for use in the development and commercialization of chemically synthesized and biologically derived 
drugs, plasma and vaccines.  Biotechnology drugs, plasma and biologically derived vaccines in particular are filtration 
and purification intensive and represent a significant area of growth for Pall in the biopharmaceutical area.  The 
business also serves the filtration needs of the beer, wine, dairy, alcohol-free beverage, bottled water, and food 
ingredient markets, helping customers ensure the quality and safety of their products while lowering operating costs 
and minimizing waste.  In the medical area, hospitals use the Company’s breathing circuit and intravenous filters and 
water filters to help control the spread of infections.

3

•

Industrial.  Virtually all of the raw materials, process fluids and waste streams that course through industry are
candidates for multiple stages of filtration, separation and purification.  In addition, most of the machines used in
complex production processes require filtration to protect sensitive parts from degradation due to contamination.
Pall’s industrial technologies enhance the quality and efficiency of manufacturing processes and prolong equipment
life in applications such as semiconductor equipment, airplanes, oil refineries, power generation turbines,
petrochemical plants, municipal water plants and mobile mining equipment.  Within these end-markets, demand is
driven by end-users and original equipment manufacturers (“OEM”) seeking to improve product performance,
increase production and efficiency, reduce operating costs, extend the life of their equipment, conserve water and meet
environmental regulations.

Customers served by the Life Sciences segment select products based on a number of factors, including product quality and 
reliability, the product’s capacity to enhance productivity, innovation (particularly productivity and sensitivity improvements), 
product performance and ergonomics, access to a service and support network and the other factors described under “—
Competition.”  The life sciences business generally markets its products under the BECKMAN COULTER, LEICA 
MICROSYSTEMS, MOLECULAR DEVICES, PALL, PHENOMENEX and SCIEX brands.  Manufacturing facilities are 
located in Europe, Australia, Asia and North America.  The business sells to customers through direct sales personnel and 
independent distributors.

DIAGNOSTICS

The Company’s Diagnostics segment offers analytical instruments, reagents, consumables, software and services that hospitals, 
physicians’ offices, reference laboratories and other critical care settings use to diagnose disease and make treatment decisions.  
Sales in 2016 for this segment by geographic destination were: North America, 38%; Europe, 24%; Asia/Australia, 30% and all 
other regions, 8%. 

Danaher established the diagnostics business in 2004 through the acquisition of Radiometer and expanded the business through 
numerous subsequent acquisitions, including the acquisitions of Leica Microsystems in 2005, Vision Systems in 2006, Genetix 
in 2009, Beckman Coulter in 2011, Iris International and Aperio Technologies in 2012, HemoCue in 2013, Devicor Medical 
Products in 2014, the clinical microbiology business of Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics in 2015 and Cepheid in 2016.  The 
diagnostics business consists of the clinical laboratory (or clinical lab), molecular, critical care and anatomical pathology 
diagnostics businesses.

Clinical Lab Diagnostics—The clinical lab business is a leading manufacturer and marketer of biomedical testing instruments, 
systems and related consumables that are used to evaluate and analyze samples made up of body fluids, cells and other 
substances.  The information generated is used to diagnose disease, monitor and guide treatment and therapy, assist in 
managing chronic disease and assess patient status in hospital, outpatient and physicians’ office settings.  The business offers 
the following products:

•

•

•

chemistry systems use electrochemical detection and chemical reactions with patient samples to detect and quantify
substances of diagnostic interest in blood, urine and other body fluids.  Commonly performed tests include glucose,
cholesterol, triglycerides, electrolytes, proteins and enzymes, as well as tests to detect urinary tract infections and
kidney and bladder disease.

immunoassay systems also detect and quantify biochemicals of diagnostic interest (such as proteins and hormones) in
body fluids, particularly in circumstances where more specialized diagnosis is required.  Commonly performed
immunoassay tests assess thyroid function, screen and monitor for cancer and cardiac risk and provide important
information in fertility and reproductive testing.

hematology and flow cytometry products for cellular analysis.  The business’ hematology systems use principles of
physics, optics, electronics and chemistry to separate cells of diagnostic interest and then quantify and characterize
them, allowing clinicians to study formed elements in blood (such as red and white blood cells and platelets).  The
business’ flow cytometry products rapidly sort, identify, categorize and characterize multiple types of cells in
suspension, allowing clinicians to determine cell types and characteristics and analyze specific cell populations based
on molecular differences which is critical to HIV and leukemia diagnosis and monitoring.

• microbiology systems are used for the identification of bacteria and antibiotic susceptibility testing (ID/AST) from

human clinical samples, to detect and quantify bacteria related to microbial infections in urine, blood, and other body
fluids, and to detect infections such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia and wound infections.  The business’ 
technology enables direct testing of clinical isolates to ensure reliable detection of resistance to antibiotics.

4

•

automation systems that reduce manual operation and associated cost and errors from the pre-analytical through post-
analytical stages including sample barcoding/information tracking, centrifugation, aliquotting, storage and
conveyance.  These systems along with the analyzers described above are controlled through laboratory level software
that enables laboratory managers to monitor samples, results and lab efficiency.

Typical users of the segment’s clinical lab products include hospitals, physician’s offices, veterinary laboratories, reference 
laboratories and pharmaceutical clinical trial laboratories.

Molecular Diagnostics—The molecular diagnostics business, which is primarily derived from Danaher’s acquisition of 
Cepheid in 2016, is a leading manufacturer and marketer of biomedical testing instruments, systems and related consumables 
that enable DNA-based testing for organisms and genetic-based diseases in both clinical and non-clinical markets.  The 
business’ products integrate and automate the complicated and time-intensive steps associated with DNA-based testing 
(including sample preparation and DNA amplification and detection) to allow the testing to be performed in both laboratory 
and non-laboratory environments with minimal training and infrastructure.  The business’ systems commonly test for health 
care-associated infections (such as MRSA and C diff.), respiratory disease (such as tuberculosis and influenza), sexual health 
(such as gonorrhea and chlamydia) and virology (such as HIV and hepatitis).  Typical users of the business’ products include 
reference laboratories, hospital central laboratories and satellite testing locations such as emergency departments and intensive 
care units within hospitals as well as physician offices.

Critical Care Diagnostics—The critical care diagnostics business is a leading worldwide provider of instruments, software and 
related consumables and services that are used in both laboratory and point-of-care environments to rapidly measure critical 
parameters, including blood gases, electrolytes, metabolites and cardiac markers, as well as for anemia and high-sensitivity 
glucose testing.  Typical users of these products include hospital central laboratories, intensive care units, hospital operating 
rooms, hospital emergency rooms, physician’s office laboratories and blood banks.

Anatomical Pathology Diagnostics—The anatomical pathology diagnostics business is a leader in the anatomical pathology 
industry, offering a comprehensive suite of instrumentation and related consumables used across the entire workflow of a 
pathology laboratory.  The anatomical pathology diagnostics products include minimally invasive, vacuum-assisted breast 
biopsy collection instruments; tissue embedding, processing and slicing (microtomes) instruments and related reagents and 
consumables; chemical and immuno-staining instruments, reagents, antibodies and consumables; slide coverslipping and slide/
cassette marking instruments; and imaging instrumentation including slide scanners, microscopes, cameras and software 
solutions to store, share and analyze pathology images digitally.  Typical users of these products include pathologists, lab 
managers and researchers.

Customers in the diagnostics industry select products based on a number of factors, including product quality and reliability, 
the scope of tests that can be performed, the accuracy and speed of the product, the product’s ability to enhance productivity, 
ease of use, total cost of ownership and access to a highly qualified service and support network as well as the other factors 
described under “—Competition.”  The diagnostics business generally markets its products under the APERIO, BECKMAN 
COULTER, CEPHEID, HEMOCUE, IRIS, LEICA BIOSYSTEMS, MAMMATOME, RADIOMETER and SURGIPATH 
brands.  Manufacturing facilities are located in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia.  The business sells to customers 
primarily through direct sales personnel and, to a lesser extent, through independent distributors.

DENTAL

The Company’s Dental segment provides products that are used to diagnose, treat and prevent disease and ailments of the teeth, 
gums and supporting bone, as well as to improve the aesthetics of the human smile.  The Company is a leading worldwide 
provider of a broad range of dental consumables, equipment and services, and is dedicated to driving technological innovations 
that help dental professionals improve clinical outcomes and enhance productivity.  Sales in 2016 for this segment by 
geographic destination were: North America, 51%; Europe, 29%; Asia/Australia, 15% and all other regions, 5%.

Danaher entered the dental business in 2004 through the acquisitions of KaVo and Gendex and has enhanced the geographic 
coverage and product and service breadth through subsequent acquisitions, including the acquisition of Sybron Dental 
Specialties in 2006, PaloDEx Group Oy in 2009 and Nobel Biocare Holding AG (“Nobel Biocare”) in 2014.  Today, the dental 
businesses develop, manufacture and market the following dental consumables and dental equipment:

•

•

•

•

implant systems, dental prosthetics and associated treatment planning software;

orthodontic bracket systems and lab products;

endodontic systems and related consumables;

restorative materials and instruments including rotary burrs, impression materials, bonding agents and cements;

5

•

•

•

•

infection prevention products;

digital imaging systems and software and other visualization and magnification systems;

air and electric powered handpieces and associated consumables; and

treatment units.

Typical customers and users of these products include general dentists, dental specialists, dental hygienists, dental laboratories 
and other oral health professionals, as well as educational, medical and governmental entities.  Dental professionals choose 
dental products based on a number of factors including product performance, innovation, the product’s capacity to enhance 
productivity and the other factors described under “—Competition.”  The dental products are marketed primarily under the 
DEXIS, iCAT, IMPLANT DIRECT, INSTRUMENTARIUM DENTAL, KAVO, KERR, NOBEL BIOCARE, ORMCO, 
PELTON & CRANE, PENTRON, SOREDEX, SYBRON ENDO and TOTAL CARE brands.  Manufacturing facilities are 
located in Europe, North America, South America and Asia.  Sales are primarily made through independent distributors and, to 
a lesser extent, through direct sales personnel.

ENVIRONMENTAL & APPLIED SOLUTIONS

The Company’s Environmental & Applied Solutions segment products and services help protect important resources and keep 
global food and water supplies safe.  Sales in 2016 for this segment by geographic destination were: North America, 42%; 
Europe, 28%; Asia/Australia, 16% and all other regions, 14%.  The Company’s Environmental & Applied Solutions segment 
consists of the following lines of business.

Water Quality

The Company’s water quality business provides instrumentation, services and disinfection systems to help analyze, treat and 
manage the quality of ultra-pure, potable, waste, ground, source and ocean water in residential, commercial, industrial and 
natural resource applications.  Danaher entered the water quality sector in the late 1990’s through the acquisitions of Dr. Lange 
and Hach Company, and has enhanced the geographic coverage and product and service breadth through subsequent 
acquisitions, including the acquisition of Trojan Technologies Inc. in 2004 and ChemTreat, Inc. in 2007.  The water quality 
business designs, manufactures and markets:

•

•

•

a wide range of analytical instruments, software and related consumables and services that detect and measure
chemical, physical, and microbiological parameters in ultra-pure, potable, waste, ground, source and ocean water;

ultraviolet disinfection systems, which disinfect billions of gallons of municipal, industrial and consumer water every
day in more than 35 countries; and

industrial water treatment solutions, including chemical treatment solutions intended to address corrosion, scaling and
biological growth problems in boiler, cooling water and industrial wastewater applications as well as associated
analytical services.

Typical users of these products and services include professionals in municipal drinking water and wastewater treatment plants 
and industrial process water and wastewater treatment facilities, third-party testing laboratories and environmental field 
operations.  Customers in these industries choose suppliers based on a number of factors including the customer’s existing 
supplier relationships, application expertise, product performance and ease of use, the comprehensiveness of the supplier’s 
product offering, after-sales service and support and the other factors described under “—Competition.”  The water quality 
business provides products under a variety of brands, including CHEMTREAT, HACH, MCCROMETER and TROJAN 
TECHNOLOGIES.  Manufacturing facilities are located in North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America.  Sales are made 
through the business’ direct sales personnel, e-commerce, independent representatives and independent distributors.

Product Identification

The Company’s product identification business provides equipment, consumables, software and services for various printing, 
marking, coding, traceability, packaging, design and color management applications on consumer, pharmaceutical and 
industrial products.  Danaher entered the product identification market through the acquisition of Videojet in 2002, and has 
expanded the product and geographic coverage through various subsequent acquisitions, including the acquisitions of Willett 
International Limited in 2003, Linx Printing Technologies PLC in 2005, EskoArtwork in 2011, X-Rite in 2012 and Laetus in 
2015.  The product identification businesses design, manufacture, and market the following products and services:

•

the business provides a variety of equipment and solutions used to give products unique identities by printing date, lot
and bar codes and other information on primary and secondary packaging.  The business’ equipment can apply high-

6

quality alphanumeric codes, logos and graphics to a wide range of surfaces at a variety of production line speeds, 
angles and locations on a product or package.  The business’ track and trace and vision inspection solutions help 
pharmaceutical and consumer goods manufacturers safeguard the authenticity of their products through supply chains.

• 

• 

the business is a leading global provider of software for packaging, label and display artwork creation, structural 
design, and pre-press applications workflow automation, digital asset management, quality assurance and online 
collaboration.  The business also provides flexo computer-to-plate imagers and digital finishing systems for 
packaging, sign and display printers.

the business provides innovative color solutions through measurement systems, software, color standards and related 
services.  The business’ expertise in inspiring, selecting, measuring, formulating, communicating and matching color 
helps users improves the quality and effectiveness of their products and reduces costs.

Typical users of the product identification business’ products include food and beverage manufacturers, pharmaceutical 
manufacturers, retailers, packaging converters and printers, graphic design firms, and paints, plastics and textile manufacturers.  
Customers in these industries choose suppliers based on a number of factors, including printer speed and accuracy, equipment 
uptime and reliable operation without interruption, ease of maintenance, service coverage and the other factors described under 
“—Competition.”  The product identification products are primarily marketed under the ESKO, FOBA, LAETUS, LINX, 
PANTONE, VIDEOJET and X-RITE brands.  Manufacturing facilities are located in North America, Europe, South America, 
and Asia.  Sales are generally made through the business’ direct sales personnel and independent distributors.

The following discussion includes information common to all of Danaher’s segments.

************************************

Materials

The Company’s manufacturing operations employ a wide variety of raw materials, including metallic-based components, 
electronic components, chemicals, plastics and other petroleum-based products.  Prices of oil and gas also affect the Company’s 
costs for freight and utilities.  The Company purchases raw materials from a large number of independent sources around the 
world.  No single supplier is material, although for some components that require particular specifications or regulatory or 
other qualifications there may be a single supplier or a limited number of suppliers that can readily provide such components.  
The Company utilizes a number of techniques to address potential disruption in and other risks relating to its supply chain, 
including in certain cases the use of safety stock, alternative materials and qualification of multiple supply sources.  During 
2016 the Company had no raw material shortages that had a material effect on the business.  For a further discussion of risks 
related to the materials and components required for the Company’s operations, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

Intellectual Property

The Company owns numerous patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and licenses to intellectual property owned by 
others.  Although in aggregate the Company’s intellectual property is important to its operations, the Company does not 
consider any single patent (or related group of patents), trademark, copyright, trade secret or license to be of material 
importance to any segment or to the business as a whole.  From time to time the Company engages in litigation to protect its 
intellectual property rights.  For a discussion of risks related to the Company’s intellectual property, refer to “Item 1A. Risk 
Factors.”  All capitalized brands and product names throughout this document are trademarks owned by, or licensed to, 
Danaher.

Competition

Although the Company’s businesses generally operate in highly competitive markets, the Company’s competitive position 
cannot be determined accurately in the aggregate or by segment since none of its competitors offer all of the same product and 
service lines or serve all of the same markets as the Company does.  Because of the range of the products and services the 
Company sells and the variety of markets it serves, the Company encounters a wide variety of competitors, including well-
established regional competitors, competitors who are more specialized than it is in particular markets, as well as larger 
companies or divisions of larger companies with substantial sales, marketing, research, and financial capabilities.  The 
Company is facing increased competition in a number of its served markets as a result of the entry of new, large companies into 
certain markets, the entry of competitors based in low-cost manufacturing locations, and increasing consolidation in particular 
markets.  The number of competitors varies by product and service line.  Management believes that the Company has a market 
leadership position in many of the markets it serves.  Key competitive factors vary among the Company’s businesses and 
product and service lines, but include the specific factors noted above with respect to each particular business and typically also 
include price, quality, delivery speed, service and support, innovation, distribution network, breadth of product, service and 

7

software offerings and brand name recognition.  For a discussion of risks related to competition, refer to “Item 1A. Risk 
Factors.”

Seasonal Nature of Business

General economic conditions impact the Company’s business and financial results, and certain of its businesses experience 
seasonal and other trends related to the industries and end-markets that they serve.  For example, European sales are often 
weaker in the summer months and medical and capital equipment sales are often stronger in the fourth quarter.  However, as a 
whole, the Company is not subject to material seasonality.

Working Capital

The Company maintains an adequate level of working capital to support its business needs.  There are no unusual industry 
practices or requirements relating to working capital items.  In addition, the Company’s sales and payment terms are generally 
similar to those of its competitors.

Backlog

The following sets forth the unfulfilled orders attributable to each of the four segments as of December 31 ($ in millions):

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

2016

2015

$

981.9

$

1,010.3

267.6

43.9

465.8

236.6

49.8

410.2

$

1,759.2

$

1,706.9

The Company expects that a large majority of the unfilled orders as of December 31, 2016 will be delivered to customers 
within three to four months of such date.  Given the relatively short delivery periods and rapid inventory turnover that are 
characteristic of most of the Company’s products and the shortening of product life cycles, the Company believes that backlog 
is indicative of short-term revenue performance but not necessarily a reliable indicator of medium or long-term revenue 
performance.

Employee Relations

As of December 31, 2016, the Company employed approximately 62,000 persons, of whom approximately 21,000 were 
employed in the United States and approximately 41,000 were employed outside of the United States.  Of the United States 
employees, approximately 400 were hourly-rated, unionized employees.  Outside the United States, the Company has 
government-mandated collective bargaining arrangements and union contracts in certain countries, particularly in Europe 
where many of the Company’s employees are represented by unions and/or works councils.  For a discussion of risks related to 
employee relations, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

Research and Development

The following sets forth research and development expenditures for the years ended December 31, by segment and in the 
aggregate ($ in millions):

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

2016

2015

2014

$

$

277.2

$

201.3

$

367.8

142.8

187.3

351.3

133.8

175.0

975.1

$

861.4

$

172.8

333.8

82.4

180.4

769.4

The Company conducts research and development activities for the purpose of developing new products, enhancing the 
functionality, effectiveness, ease of use and reliability of its existing products and expanding the applications for which uses of 
its products are appropriate.  The Company’s research and development efforts include internal initiatives and those that use 

8

licensed or acquired technology.  The Company generally conducts research and development activities on a business-by-
business basis, primarily in North America, Europe and Asia, although it does conduct certain research and development 
activities on a centralized basis.  The Company anticipates that it will continue to make significant expenditures for research 
and development as it seeks to provide a continuing flow of innovative products to maintain and improve its competitive 
position.  For a discussion of the risks related to the need to develop and commercialize new products and product 
enhancements, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  Customer-sponsored research and development was not significant in 2016, 
2015 or 2014.

Government Contracts

Although the substantial majority of the Company’s revenue in 2016 was from customers other than governmental entities, 
each of Danaher’s segments has agreements relating to the sale of products to government entities.  As a result, the Company is 
subject to various statutes and regulations that apply to companies doing business with governments.  For a discussion of risks 
related to government contracting requirements, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  No material portion of Danaher’s business is 
subject to renegotiation of profits or termination of contracts at the election of a government entity.

Regulatory Matters

The Company faces extensive government regulation both within and outside the United States relating to the development, 
manufacture, marketing, sale and distribution of its products and services.  The following sections describe certain significant 
regulations that the Company is subject to.  These are not the only regulations that the Company’s businesses must comply 
with.  For a description of the risks related to the regulations that the Company’s businesses are subject to, refer to “Item 1A. 
Risk Factors.”

Environmental Laws and Regulations

For a discussion of the environmental laws and regulations that the Company’s operations, products and services are subject to 
and other environmental contingencies, refer to Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual 
Report.  For a discussion of risks related to compliance with environmental and health and safety laws and risks related to past 
or future releases of, or exposures to, hazardous substances, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

Medical Device and Other Health Care Regulations

Certain of the Company’s products are classified as medical devices under the United States Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the 
“FDCA”).  The FDCA requires these products, when sold in the United States, to be safe and effective for their intended use 
and to comply with the regulations administered by the United States Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”).  The Company’s 
medical device products are also regulated by comparable agencies in non-U.S. countries where the Company’s products are 
sold.

The FDA’s regulatory requirements include:

•  Establishment Registration.  The Company must register with the FDA each facility where regulated products are 

developed or manufactured.  The FDA periodically inspects these facilities.

•  Marketing Authorization.  The Company must obtain FDA clearance or approval to begin marketing a regulated, 510

(k)-non-exempted product in the United States.  For some of the Company’s products, this clearance is obtained by 
submitting a 510(k) pre-market notification, which generally provides data on the design and performance of the 
product to allow the FDA to determine substantial equivalence to a product already in commercial distribution in the 
United States.  Other of the Company’s products must go through a formal pre-market approval process which 
includes the review of non-clinical laboratory studies, clinical investigations, and information on the design and 
manufacture of the device as well as the successful completion of a pre-market approval inspection by the FDA.

•  Quality Systems.  The Company is required to establish a quality system that includes clearly defined processes and 

procedures for ensuring regulated products are developed, manufactured and distributed in accordance with specified 
standards.  The Company also must establish procedures for investigating and responding to customer complaints 
regarding the performance of regulated products.

•  Labeling.  The labeling for regulated products must contain specified information and in some cases, the FDA must 

review and approve the labeling and any quality assurance protocols specified in the labeling.  The FDA and other 
federal, state and non-U.S. regulatory bodies (including the Federal Trade Commission, the Office of the Inspector 
General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the U. S. Department of Justice, and various state Attorneys 
General) also monitor the manner in which the Company promotes and advertises its products.  Although physicians 

9

may use their medical judgment to employ medical devices for indications other than those cleared or approved by the 
FDA, the FDA prohibits manufacturers from promoting products for such “off-label” uses.

Imports and Exports.  The FDCA establishes requirements for importing products into and exporting products from the 
United States.  In general, any limitations on importing and exporting products apply only to products that have not 
received U.S. marketing clearance or approval.

Post-Market Reporting.  After regulated products have been distributed to customers, the Company may receive 
product complaints requiring the Company to investigate and report to the FDA certain events involving the products.  
The Company also must notify the FDA when the Company conducts recalls involving its products.

• 

• 

In the European Union, a single regulatory approval process exists, and conformity with the applicable legal requirements is 
represented by the CE mark.  To obtain a CE mark, medical devices must meet minimum standards of performance, safety, and 
quality (known as the Essential Requirements), and then, according to their classification, comply with one or more of a 
selection of conformity assessment routes.  An organization accredited by an EU Member State to certify whether a product 
meets the Essential Requirements, also known as a Notified Body, assesses the quality management systems of the device’s 
manufacturer and the device’s conformity to the essential and other requirements within the EU Medical Device or In Vitro 
Diagnostic Directives.  Our medical device companies are also subject to quality system audits by Notified Bodies for 
compliance and certification to the EU standards.  The national regulatory agencies of the EU countries (otherwise known as 
Competent Authorities), generally in the form of their ministries or departments of health, also oversee the clinical research for 
medical devices, can conduct their own compliance audits and are responsible for post-market surveillance of products once 
they are placed on the EU market.  The Company is required to report device failures and injuries potentially related to product 
use to these authorities in a timely manner.

A number of other countries, including but not limited to Australia, Brazil, Canada, China and Japan, have also adopted or are 
in the process of adopting regulations and standards for medical devices sold in those countries.

In addition to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and similar anti-bribery laws, the Company is also 
subject to various health care related laws regulating fraud and abuse, pricing and sales and marketing practices and the privacy 
and security of health information, including the United States federal regulations described below.  Many states, foreign 
countries and supranational bodies have also adopted laws and regulations similar to, and in some cases more stringent than, 
the United States federal regulations discussed above and below.

•  The Federal Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits persons from knowingly and willfully soliciting, offering, receiving or 
providing remuneration, directly or indirectly, in exchange for or to induce either the referral of an individual, or the 
furnishing or arranging for a good or service, for which payment may be made under a federal health care program, 
such as Medicare or Medicaid.

•  The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) prohibits knowingly and willfully 

(1) executing a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, including private payors, or (2) falsifying, 
concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statement in 
connection with the delivery of or payment for health care benefits, items or services.  In addition, HIPAA, as 
amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009, also restricts the use 
and disclosure of patient-identifiable health information, mandates the adoption of standards relating to the privacy 
and security of patient-identifiable health information and requires the Company to report certain security breaches 
with respect to such information.

•  The Stark Law prohibits health care service providers from seeking reimbursement for providing certain services to a 
patient who was referred by a physician who has certain types of direct or indirect financial relationships with the 
service provider.

•  The False Claims Act imposes liability on any person or entity that, among other things, knowingly presents, or causes 
to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment by a federal health care program.  The qui tam provisions of 
the False Claims Act allow a private individual to bring actions on behalf of the federal government alleging that the 
defendant has submitted a false claim to the federal government, and to share in any monetary recovery.

•  The Physician Payments Sunshine Act requires manufacturers of medical devices covered under Medicare and 

Medicaid to record transfers of value to physicians and teaching hospitals and to report this data to the Centers for 
Medicare and Medicaid Services for subsequent public disclosure.  Similar reporting requirements have also been 
enacted on the state level, and an increasing number of countries worldwide either have adopted or are considering 
similar laws requiring transparency of interactions with health care professionals.

10

In addition:

• 

• 

certain of the Company’s products utilize radioactive material, and the Company is subject to federal, state, local and 
non-U.S. regulations governing the management, storage, handling and disposal of these materials; and

some of the Company’s in vitro diagnostic drugs-of-abuse assays and reagents contain small amounts of controlled 
substances, and as a result some of the Company’s facilities are inspected periodically by the United States Drug 
Enforcement Administration to ensure that the Company properly handles, stores, and disposes of controlled 
substances in the manufacture of those products. 

For a discussion of risks related to the Company’s regulation by the FDA and comparable agencies of other countries, and the 
other regulatory regimes referenced above, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

Export/Import Compliance

The Company is required to comply with various U.S. export/import control and economic sanctions laws, including:

• 

• 

• 

the International Traffic in Arms Regulations administered by the U.S. Department of State, Directorate of Defense 
Trade Controls, which, among other things, imposes license requirements on the export from the United States of 
defense articles and defense services (which are items specifically designed or adapted for a military application and/
or listed on the United States Munitions List);

the Export Administration Regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and 
Security, which, among other things, impose licensing requirements on the export or re-export of certain dual-use 
goods, technology and software (which are items that potentially have both commercial and military applications);

the regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, which implement 
economic sanctions imposed against designated countries, governments and persons based on United States foreign 
policy and national security considerations; and

• 

the import regulatory activities of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Other nations’ governments have implemented similar export and import control regulations, which may affect the Company’s 
operations or transactions subject to their jurisdictions.  For a discussion of risks related to export/import control and economic 
sanctions laws, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

International Operations

The Company’s products and services are available worldwide, and its principal markets outside the United States are in 
Europe and Asia.  The Company also has operations around the world, and this geographic diversity allows the Company to 
draw on the skills of a worldwide workforce, provides greater stability to its operations, allows the Company to drive 
economies of scale, provides revenue streams that may help offset economic trends that are specific to individual economies 
and offers the Company an opportunity to access new markets for products.  In addition, the Company believes that future 
growth depends in part on its ability to continue developing products and sales models that successfully target emerging 
markets (also referred to in this Annual Report as “high-growth markets”).  The Company defines high-growth markets as 
developing markets of the world experiencing rapid growth in gross domestic product and infrastructure which includes 
Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia (with the exception of Japan and Australia).

The table below describes annual revenue derived from customers outside the United States as a percentage of total annual 
revenue for the years ended December 31, by segment and in the aggregate, based on geographic destination:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

2016

2015

2014

68%

63%

54%

61%

62%

64%

63%

54%

60%

61%

67%

65%

54%

62%

63%

11

The table below describes property, plant and equipment, net located outside the United States as of December 31, as a 
percentage of total property, plant and equipment, net, by segment and in the aggregate:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

2016

2015

2014

48%

51%

51%

39%

49%

41%

54%

57%

39%

48%

85%

50%

61%

42%

52%

For additional information related to revenues and long-lived assets by country, refer to Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in this Annual Report and for information regarding deferred taxes by geography, refer to Note 12 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.

The manner in which the Company’s products and services are sold outside the United States differs by business and by region.  
Most of the Company’s sales in non-U.S. markets are made by its subsidiaries located outside the United States, though the 
Company also sells directly from the United States into non-U.S. markets through various representatives and distributors and, 
in some cases, directly.  In countries with low sales volumes, the Company generally sells through representatives and 
distributors.

Financial information about the Company’s international operations is contained in Note 19 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in this Annual Report and information about the effects of foreign currency fluctuations on its business is 
set forth in “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”  For a 
discussion of risks related to the Company’s non-U.S. operations and foreign currency exchange, refer to “Item 1A. Risk 
Factors.”

Major Customers

No customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated sales in 2016, 2015 or 2014.

Available Information

The Company maintains an internet website at www.danaher.com.  The Company makes available free of charge on the website 
its annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those 
reports, filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing 
such material with, or furnishing such material to, the SEC.  Danaher’s internet site and the information contained on or 
connected to that site are not incorporated by reference into this Form 10-K.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below, together with the information included elsewhere in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents we file with the SEC.  The risks and uncertainties described below are 
those that we have identified as material, but are not the only risks and uncertainties facing us.  Our business is also subject to 
general risks and uncertainties that affect many other companies, such as market conditions, economic conditions, geopolitical 
events, changes in laws, regulations or accounting rules, fluctuations in interest rates, terrorism, wars or conflicts, major 
health concerns, natural disasters or other disruptions of expected business conditions.  Additional risks and uncertainties not 
currently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial also may impair our business, including our results of 
operations, liquidity and financial condition.

12

Conditions in the global economy, the markets we serve and the financial markets may adversely affect our business and 
financial statements.

Our business is sensitive to general economic conditions.  Slower global economic growth, actual or anticipated default on 
sovereign debt, volatility in the currency and credit markets, high levels of unemployment or underemployment, reduced levels 
of capital expenditures, changes or anticipation of potential changes in government fiscal, tax, trade and monetary policies, 
changes in capital requirements for financial institutions, government deficit reduction and budget negotiation dynamics, 
sequestration, austerity measures and other challenges that affect the global economy adversely affect the Company and its 
distributors, customers and suppliers, including having the effect of:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

reducing demand for our products and services (in this Annual Report, references to products and services also 
includes software), limiting the financing available to our customers and suppliers, increasing order cancellations and 
resulting in longer sales cycles and slower adoption of new technologies;

increasing the difficulty in collecting accounts receivable and the risk of excess and obsolete inventories;

increasing price competition in our served markets; 

supply interruptions, which could disrupt our ability to produce our products; 

increasing the risk of impairment of goodwill and other long-lived assets, and the risk that we may not be able to fully 
recover the value of other assets such as real estate and tax assets; and

increasing the risk that counterparties to our contractual arrangements will become insolvent or otherwise unable to 
fulfill their contractual obligations which, in addition to increasing the risks identified above, could result in 
preference actions against us.

Although we have been able to access the commercial paper and other capital markets through the date of this report, there can 
be no assurances that such markets will remain available to us or that the lenders participating in our revolving credit facilities 
will be able to provide financing in accordance with their contractual obligations.

If growth in the global economy or in any of the markets we serve slows for a significant period, if there is significant 
deterioration in the global economy or such markets or if improvements in the global economy do not benefit the markets we 
serve, our business and financial statements could be adversely affected.

Our growth could suffer if the markets into which we sell our products and services decline, do not grow as anticipated or 
experience cyclicality.

Our growth depends in part on the growth of the markets which we serve, and visibility into our markets is limited (particularly 
for markets into which we sell through distribution).  Our quarterly sales and profits depend substantially on the volume and 
timing of orders received during the fiscal quarter, which are difficult to forecast.  Any decline or lower than expected growth 
in our served markets could diminish demand for our products and services, which would adversely affect our financial 
statements.  Certain of our businesses operate in industries that may experience periodic, cyclical downturns.  In addition, in 
certain of our businesses demand depends on customers’ capital spending budgets as well as government funding policies, and 
matters of public policy and government budget dynamics as well as product and economic cycles can affect the spending 
decisions of these entities.  Demand for our products and services is also sensitive to changes in customer order patterns, which 
may be affected by announced price changes, changes in incentive programs, new product introductions and customer 
inventory levels.  Any of these factors could adversely affect our growth and results of operations in any given period.

We face intense competition and if we are unable to compete effectively, we may experience decreased demand and 
decreased market share.  Even if we compete effectively, we may be required to reduce prices for our products and services.

Our businesses operate in industries that are intensely competitive and have been subject to increasing consolidation.  Because 
of the range of the products and services we sell and the variety of markets we serve, we encounter a wide variety of 
competitors; refer to “Item 1. Business—Competition” for additional details.  In order to compete effectively, we must retain 
longstanding relationships with major customers and continue to grow our business by establishing relationships with new 
customers, continually developing new products and services to maintain and expand our brand recognition and leadership 
position in various product and service categories and penetrating new markets, including high-growth markets.  In addition, 
significant shifts in industry market share can occur in connection with product problems, safety alerts and publications about 
products, reflecting the competitive significance of product quality, product efficacy and quality systems in our industry.  Our 
failure to compete effectively and/or pricing pressures resulting from competition may adversely impact our financial 
statements, and our expansion into new markets may result in greater-than-expected risks, liabilities and expenses.

13

Our growth depends in part on the timely development and commercialization, and customer acceptance, of new and 
enhanced products and services based on technological innovation.

We generally sell our products and services in industries that are characterized by rapid technological changes, frequent new 
product introductions and changing industry standards.  If we do not develop innovative new and enhanced products and 
services on a timely basis, our offerings will become obsolete over time and our competitive position and financial statements 
will suffer.  Our success will depend on several factors, including our ability to:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

correctly identify customer needs and preferences and predict future needs and preferences;

allocate our research and development funding to products and services with higher growth prospects;

anticipate and respond to our competitors’ development of new products and services and technological innovations;

differentiate our offerings from our competitors’ offerings and avoid commoditization;

innovate and develop new technologies and applications, and acquire or obtain rights to third-party technologies that 
may have valuable applications in our served markets;

obtain adequate intellectual property rights with respect to key technologies before our competitors do;

successfully commercialize new technologies in a timely manner, price them competitively and cost-effectively 
manufacture and deliver sufficient volumes of new products of appropriate quality on time;

obtain necessary regulatory approvals of appropriate scope, including with respect to medical device products by 
demonstrating satisfactory clinical results where applicable; and

• 

stimulate customer demand for and convince customers to adopt new technologies.

In addition, if we fail to accurately predict future customer needs and preferences or fail to produce viable technologies, we 
may invest heavily in research and development of products and services that do not lead to significant revenue, which would 
adversely affect our profitability.  Even if we successfully innovate and develop new and enhanced products and services, we 
may incur substantial costs in doing so, and our profitability may suffer.  In addition, promising new offerings may fail to reach 
the market or realize only limited commercial success because of real or perceived efficacy or safety concerns, failure to 
achieve positive clinical outcomes, uncertainty over third-party reimbursement or entrenched patterns of clinical practice.

Our reputation, ability to do business and financial statements may be impaired by improper conduct by any of our 
employees, agents or business partners.

We cannot provide assurance that our internal controls and compliance systems will always protect us from acts committed by 
employees, agents or business partners of ours (or of businesses we acquire or partner with) that would violate U.S. and/or non-
U.S. laws, including the laws governing payments to government officials, bribery, fraud, kickbacks and false claims, pricing, 
sales and marketing practices, conflicts of interest, competition, export and import compliance, money laundering and data 
privacy.  In particular, the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and similar anti-bribery laws in other 
jurisdictions generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials for 
the purpose of obtaining or retaining business, and we operate in many parts of the world that have experienced governmental 
corruption to some degree.  Any such improper actions or allegations of such acts could damage our reputation and subject us 
to civil or criminal investigations in the United States and in other jurisdictions and related shareholder lawsuits, could lead to 
substantial civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties and could cause us to incur significant legal and 
investigatory fees.  In addition, the government may seek to hold us liable as a successor for violations committed by 
companies in which we invest or that we acquire.  We also rely on our suppliers to adhere to our supplier standards of conduct, 
and material violations of such standards of conduct could occur that could have a material effect on our business, reputation 
and financial statements.

Certain of our businesses are subject to extensive regulation by the U.S. FDA and by comparable agencies of other 
countries, as well as laws regulating fraud and abuse in the health care industry and the privacy and security of health 
information.  Failure to comply with those regulations could adversely affect our reputation and financial statements.

Certain of our products are medical devices and other products that are subject to regulation by the U.S. FDA, by other federal 
and state governmental agencies, by comparable agencies of other countries and regions and by regulations governing 
radioactive or other hazardous materials and drugs-of abuse (or the manufacture and sale of products containing any such 
materials).  We cannot guarantee that we will be able to obtain regulatory clearance (such as 510(k) clearance) or approvals for 

14

our new products or modifications to (or additional indications or uses of) existing products within our anticipated timeframe or 
at all, and if we do obtain such clearance or approval it may be time-consuming, costly and subject to restrictions.  Our ability 
to obtain such regulatory clearances or approvals will depend on many factors, for example our ability to obtain the necessary 
clinical trial results, and the process for obtaining such clearances or approvals could change over time and may require the 
withdrawal of products from the market until such clearances are obtained.  Even after initial regulatory clearance or approval, 
if safety issues arise we may be required to amend conditions for use of a product, such as providing additional warnings on the 
product’s label or narrowing its approved intended use, which could reduce the product’s market acceptance.  Failure to obtain 
required regulatory clearances or approvals before marketing our products (or before implementing modifications to or 
promoting additional indications or uses of our products), other violations of these regulations, real or perceived efficacy or 
safety concerns or trends of adverse events with respect to our products (even after obtaining clearance for distribution) and 
unfavorable or inconsistent clinical data from existing or future clinical trials can lead to FDA Form 483 Inspectional 
Observations, warning letters, notices to customers, declining sales, loss of customers, loss of market share, recalls, seizures of 
adulterated or misbranded products, injunctions, administrative detentions, refusals to permit importations, partial or total 
shutdown of production facilities or the implementation of operating restrictions, narrowing of permitted uses for a product, 
suspension or withdrawal of approvals and pre-market notification rescissions.  We are also subject to various laws regulating 
fraud and abuse, pricing and sales and marketing practices in the health care industry and the privacy and security of health 
information, including the federal regulations described in “Item 1. Business—Regulatory Matters.”  

Failure to comply with applicable regulations could result in the adverse effects referenced below under “Our businesses are 
subject to extensive regulation; failure to comply with those regulations could adversely affect our financial statements and our 
business, including our reputation.”  Compliance with regulations may also require us to incur significant expenses.

The health care industry and related industries that we serve have undergone, and are in the process of undergoing, 
significant changes in an effort to reduce costs, which could adversely affect our financial statements.

The health care industry and related industries that we serve have undergone, and are in the process of undergoing, significant 
changes in an effort to reduce costs, including the following:

•  many of our customers, and the end-users to whom our customers supply products, rely on government funding of and 

reimbursement for health care products and services and research activities.  The U.S. Patient Protection and 
Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act (collectively, the 
“PPACA”), health care austerity measures in other countries and other potential health care reform changes and 
government austerity measures may reduce the amount of government funding or reimbursement available to 
customers or end-users of our products and services and/or the volume of medical procedures using our products and 
services.  Some countries also control the price of health care products, directly or indirectly, through reimbursement, 
payment, pricing or coverage limitations or through compulsory licensing.  Global economic uncertainty or 
deterioration can also adversely impact government funding and reimbursement.

• 

• 

the PPACA imposes on medical device manufacturers, such as Danaher, a 2.3% excise tax on U.S. sales of certain 
medical devices. While the excise tax has been suspended until the end of 2017, it may be reinstated in 2018 or 
beyond.

governmental and private health care providers and payors around the world are increasingly utilizing managed care 
for the delivery of health care services, forming group purchasing organizations to improve their purchasing leverage 
and using competitive bid processes to procure health care products and services.

These changes as well as other impacts from market demand, government regulations, third-party coverage and reimbursement 
policies and societal pressures have increased our tax liabilities and may cause participants in the health care industry and 
related industries that we serve to purchase fewer of our products and services, reduce the prices they are willing to pay for our 
products or services, reduce the amounts of reimbursement and funding available for our products and services from 
governmental agencies or third-party payors, reduce the volume of medical procedures that use our products and services and 
increase our compliance and other costs.  In addition, we may be unable to enter into contracts with group purchasing 
organizations and integrated health networks on terms acceptable to us, and even if we do enter into such contracts they may be 
on terms that negatively affect our current or future profitability.  All of the factors described above could adversely affect our 
business and financial statements.

Any inability to consummate acquisitions at our historical rate and at appropriate prices could negatively impact our growth 
rate and stock price.

Our ability to grow revenues, earnings and cash flow at or above our historic rates depends in part upon our ability to identify 
and successfully acquire and integrate businesses at appropriate prices and realize anticipated synergies.  We may not be able to 

15

consummate acquisitions at rates similar to the past, which could adversely impact our growth rate and our stock price.  
Promising acquisitions are difficult to identify and complete for a number of reasons, including high valuations, competition 
among prospective buyers, the availability of affordable funding in the capital markets and the need to satisfy applicable 
closing conditions and obtain antitrust and other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms.  In addition, competition for 
acquisitions may result in higher purchase prices.  Changes in accounting or regulatory requirements or instability in the credit 
markets could also adversely impact our ability to consummate acquisitions.

Our acquisition of businesses (including our recent acquisitions of Pall and Cepheid), joint ventures and strategic 
relationships could negatively impact our financial statements.

As part of our business strategy we acquire businesses and enter into joint ventures and other strategic relationships in the 
ordinary course, and we also from time to time complete more material transactions; refer to “Management’s Discussion and 
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” (“MD&A”) for additional details.  Acquisitions, joint ventures and 
strategic relationships involve a number of financial, accounting, managerial, operational, legal, compliance and other risks and 
challenges, including the following, any of which could adversely affect our business and our financial statements:

• 

any acquired business, technology, service or product could under-perform relative to our expectations and the price 
that we paid for it or not perform in accordance with our anticipated timetable, or we could fail to make such business 
profitable.

•  we may incur or assume significant debt in connection with our acquisitions, joint ventures or strategic relationships, 
which could also cause a deterioration of Danaher’s credit ratings, result in increased borrowing costs and interest 
expense and diminish our future access to the capital markets.

• 

• 

• 

acquisitions, joint ventures or strategic relationships could cause our financial results to differ from our own or the 
investment community’s expectations in any given period, or over the long-term.

pre-closing and post-closing earnings charges could adversely impact operating results in any given period, and the 
impact may be substantially different from period-to-period.

acquisitions, joint ventures or strategic relationships could create demands on our management, operational resources 
and financial and internal control systems that we are unable to effectively address.

•  we could experience difficulty in integrating personnel, operations and financial and other controls and systems and 

retaining key employees and customers.

•  we may be unable to achieve cost savings or other synergies anticipated in connection with an acquisition, joint 

venture or strategic relationship.

•  we may assume by acquisition, joint venture or strategic relationship unknown liabilities, known contingent liabilities 
that become realized, known liabilities that prove greater than anticipated, internal control deficiencies or exposure to 
regulatory sanctions resulting from the acquired company’s activities.  The realization of any of these liabilities or 
deficiencies may increase our expenses, adversely affect our financial position or cause us to fail to meet our public 
financial reporting obligations.

• 

• 

in connection with acquisitions and joint ventures, we often enter into post-closing financial arrangements such as 
purchase price adjustments, earn-out obligations and indemnification obligations, which may have unpredictable 
financial results.

as a result of our acquisitions, we have recorded significant goodwill and other intangible assets on our balance sheet.  
If we are not able to realize the value of these assets, we may be required to incur charges relating to the impairment of 
these assets.

•  we may have interests that diverge from those of our joint venture partners or other strategic partners and we may not 

be able to direct the management and operations of the joint venture or other strategic relationship in the manner we 
believe is most appropriate, exposing us to additional risk. 

The indemnification provisions of acquisition agreements by which we have acquired companies may not fully protect us 
and as a result we may face unexpected liabilities.

Certain of the acquisition agreements by which we have acquired companies require the former owners to indemnify us against 
certain liabilities related to the operation of the company before we acquired it.  In most of these agreements, however, the 

16

liability of the former owners is limited and certain former owners may be unable to meet their indemnification responsibilities.  
We cannot assure you that these indemnification provisions will protect us fully or at all, and as a result we may face 
unexpected liabilities that adversely affect our financial statements.

Divestitures or other dispositions could negatively impact our business, and contingent liabilities from businesses that we 
have sold could adversely affect our financial statements.

We continually assess the strategic fit of our existing businesses and may divest, spin-off, split-off or otherwise dispose of 
businesses that are deemed not to fit with our strategic plan or are not achieving the desired return on investment.  These 
transactions pose risks and challenges that could negatively impact our business and financial statements.  For example, when 
we decide to sell or otherwise dispose of a business or assets, we may be unable to do so on satisfactory terms within our 
anticipated timeframe or at all, and even after reaching a definitive agreement to sell or dispose a business the sale is typically 
subject to satisfaction of pre-closing conditions which may not become satisfied.  In addition, divestitures or other dispositions 
may dilute the Company’s earnings per share, have other adverse financial and accounting impacts and distract management, 
and disputes may arise with buyers.  In addition, we have retained responsibility for and/or have agreed to indemnify buyers 
against some known and unknown contingent liabilities related to a number of businesses we have sold or disposed.  The 
resolution of these contingencies has not had a material effect on our financial statements but we cannot be certain that this 
favorable pattern will continue.

We could incur significant liability if the 2016 spin-off of Fortive or the 2015 split-off of our communications business is 
determined to be a taxable transaction.

We have received opinions from outside tax counsel to the effect that the separation and distribution of each of Fortive in 2016 
and our communications business in 2015 qualifies as a transaction that is described in Sections 355(a) and 368(a)(1)(D) of the 
Internal Revenue Code.  These opinions rely on certain facts, assumptions, representations and undertakings regarding the past 
and future conduct of the companies’ respective businesses and other matters.  If any of these facts, assumptions, 
representations or undertakings are incorrect or not satisfied, our stockholders and we may not be able to rely on the respective 
opinion of tax counsel and could be subject to significant tax liabilities.  Notwithstanding the opinion of tax counsel we have 
received, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) could determine on audit that either or both separations are taxable if it 
determines that any of these facts, assumptions, representations or undertakings are not correct or have been violated or if it 
disagrees with the conclusions in the respective opinion.  If either transaction is determined to be taxable for U.S. federal 
income tax purposes, our stockholders that are subject to U.S. federal income tax and we could incur significant U.S. federal 
income tax liabilities.

Potential indemnification liabilities pursuant to the 2016 spin-off of Fortive and the 2015 split-off of our communications 
business could materially and adversely affect our business and financial statements.

We entered into a separation and distribution agreement and related agreements with Fortive to govern the Separation and the 
relationship between the two companies going forward.  We entered into similar agreements with NetScout Systems, Inc. in 
connection with the split-off of our communications business.  These agreements provide for specific indemnity and liability 
obligations of each party and could lead to disputes between us.  If we are required to indemnify the other parties under the 
circumstances set forth in these agreements, we may be subject to substantial liabilities.  In addition, with respect to the 
liabilities for which the other parties have agreed to indemnify us under these agreements, there can be no assurance that the 
indemnity rights we have against such other parties will be sufficient to protect us against the full amount of the liabilities, or 
that such other parties will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations.  It is also possible that a court could disregard 
the allocation of assets and liabilities agreed to between Danaher and such other parties and require Danaher to assume 
responsibility for obligations allocated to such other parties.  Each of these risks could negatively affect our business and 
financial statements.

A significant disruption in, or breach in security of, our information technology systems or violation of data privacy laws 
could adversely affect our business, reputation and financial statements.

We rely on information technology systems, some of which are managed by third-parties, to process, transmit and store 
electronic information (including sensitive data such as confidential business information and personally identifiable data 
relating to employees, customers, other business partners and patients), and to manage or support a variety of critical business 
processes and activities.  In addition, some of our remote monitoring products and services incorporate software and 
information technology that may house personal data.  These systems may be damaged, disrupted or shut down due to attacks 
by computer hackers, computer viruses, employee error or malfeasance, power outages, hardware failures, telecommunication 
or utility failures, catastrophes or other unforeseen events, and in any such circumstances our system redundancy and other 
disaster recovery planning may be ineffective or inadequate.  In addition, security breaches of our systems (or the systems of 
our customers, suppliers or other business partners) could result in the misappropriation, destruction or unauthorized disclosure 
17

of confidential information or personal data belonging to us or to our employees, partners, customers or suppliers.  Like most 
multinational corporations, our information technology systems have been subject to computer viruses, malicious codes, 
unauthorized access and other cyber-attacks and we expect the sophistication and frequency of such attacks to continue to 
increase.  Any of the attacks, breaches or other disruptions or damage described above could interrupt our operations, delay 
production and shipments, result in theft of our and our customers’ intellectual property and trade secrets, damage customer and 
business partner relationships and our reputation or result in defective products or services, legal claims and proceedings, 
liability and penalties under privacy laws and increased costs for security and remediation, each of which could adversely affect 
our business, reputation and financial statements.

If we are unable to maintain reliable information technology systems and appropriate controls with respect to global data 
privacy and security requirements and prevent data breaches, we may suffer regulatory consequences in addition to business 
consequences.  As a global organization, we are subject to data privacy and security laws, regulations, and customer-imposed 
controls in numerous jurisdictions as a result of having access to and processing confidential, personal and/or sensitive data in 
the course of our business.  For example, in the United States, HIPAA privacy and security rules require certain of our 
operations to maintain controls to protect the availability and confidentiality of patient health information, individual states 
regulate data breach and security requirements and multiple governmental bodies assert authority over aspects of the protection 
of personal privacy.  European laws require us to have an approved legal mechanism to transfer personal data out of Europe, 
and the new EU General Data Protection Regulation will impose significantly stricter requirements in how we collect and 
process personal data.  Several countries, such as China and Russia, have passed laws that require personal data relating to their 
citizens to be maintained on local servers and impose additional data transfer restrictions.  Government enforcement actions 
can be costly and interrupt the regular operation of our business, and data breaches or violations of data privacy laws can result 
in fines, reputational damage and civil lawsuits, any of which may adversely affect our business, reputation and financial 
statements.

Our operations, products and services expose us to the risk of environmental, health and safety liabilities, costs and 
violations that could adversely affect our business, reputation and financial statements.

Our operations, products and services are subject to environmental laws and regulations, which impose limitations on the 
discharge of pollutants into the environment, establish standards for the use, generation, treatment, storage and disposal of 
hazardous and non-hazardous wastes and impose end-of-life disposal and take-back programs.  We must also comply with 
various health and safety regulations in the United States and abroad in connection with our operations.  We cannot assure you 
that our environmental, health and safety compliance program has been or will at all times be effective.  Failure to comply with 
any of these laws could result in civil and criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties and damage to our reputation.  In 
addition, we cannot provide assurance that our costs of complying with current or future environmental protection and health 
and safety laws will not exceed our estimates or adversely affect our financial statements.

In addition, we may incur costs related to remedial efforts or alleged environmental damage associated with past or current 
waste disposal practices or other hazardous materials handling practices.  We are also from time to time party to personal 
injury, property damage or other claims brought by private parties alleging injury or damage due to the presence of or exposure 
to hazardous substances.  We may also become subject to additional remedial, compliance or personal injury costs due to future 
events such as changes in existing laws or regulations, changes in agency direction or enforcement policies, developments in 
remediation technologies, changes in the conduct of our operations and changes in accounting rules.  For additional information 
regarding these risks, refer to Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report.  We cannot 
assure you that our liabilities arising from past or future releases of, or exposures to, hazardous substances will not exceed our 
estimates or adversely affect our reputation and financial statements or that we will not be subject to additional claims for 
personal injury or remediation in the future based on our past, present or future business activities.  However, based on the 
information we currently have we do not believe that it is reasonably possible that any amounts we may be required to pay in 
connection with environmental matters in excess of our reserves as of December 31, 2016 will have a material effect on our 
financial statements.

Our businesses are subject to extensive regulation; failure to comply with those regulations could adversely affect our 
financial statements and our business, including our reputation.

In addition to the environmental, health, safety, health care, medical device, anticorruption, data privacy and other regulations 
noted elsewhere in this Annual Report, our businesses are subject to extensive regulation by U.S. and non-U.S. governmental 
and self-regulatory entities at the supranational, federal, state, local and other jurisdictional levels, including the following:

•  we are required to comply with various import laws and export control and economic sanctions laws, which may 
affect our transactions with certain customers, business partners and other persons and dealings between our 
employees and between our subsidiaries.  In certain circumstances, export control and economic sanctions regulations 

18

may prohibit the export of certain products, services and technologies.  In other circumstances, we may be required to 
obtain an export license before exporting the controlled item.  Compliance with the various import laws that apply to 
our businesses can restrict our access to, and increase the cost of obtaining, certain products and at times can interrupt 
our supply of imported inventory.

•  we also have agreements to sell products and services to government entities and are subject to various statutes and 
regulations that apply to companies doing business with government entities.  The laws governing government 
contracts differ from the laws governing private contracts.  For example, many government contracts contain pricing 
and other terms and conditions that are not applicable to private contracts.  Our agreements with government entities 
may be subject to termination, reduction or modification at the convenience of the government or in the event of 
changes in government requirements, reductions in federal spending and other factors, and we may underestimate our 
costs of performing under the contract.  In certain cases, a governmental entity may require us to pay back amounts it 
has paid to us.  Government contracts that have been awarded to us following a bid process could become the subject 
of a bid protest by a losing bidder, which could result in loss of the contract.  We are also subject to investigation and 
audit for compliance with the requirements governing government contracts.  

These are not the only regulations that our businesses must comply with.  The regulations we are subject to have tended to 
become more stringent over time and may be inconsistent across jurisdictions.  We, our representatives and the industries in 
which we operate may at times be under review and/or investigation by regulatory authorities.  Failure to comply (or any 
alleged or perceived failure to comply) with the regulations referenced above or any other regulations could result in civil and 
criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties, and any such failure or alleged failure (or becoming subject to a regulatory 
enforcement investigation) could also damage our reputation, disrupt our business, limit our ability to manufacture, import, 
export and sell products and services, result in loss of customers and disbarment from selling to certain federal agencies and 
cause us to incur significant legal and investigatory fees.  Compliance with these and other regulations may also affect our 
returns on investment, require us to incur significant expenses or modify our business model or impair our flexibility in 
modifying product, marketing, pricing or other strategies for growing our business.  Our products and operations are also often 
subject to the rules of industrial standards bodies such as the International Standards Organization, and failure to comply with 
these rules could result in withdrawal of certifications needed to sell our products and services and otherwise adversely impact 
our business and financial statements.  For additional information regarding these risks, refer to “Item 1. Business—Regulatory 
Matters.”

Our restructuring actions could have long-term adverse effects on our business.

In recent years, we have implemented significant restructuring activities across our businesses to adjust our cost structure, and 
we may engage in similar restructuring activities in the future.  These restructuring activities and our regular ongoing cost 
reduction activities (including in connection with the integration of acquired businesses) reduce our available talent, assets and 
other resources and could slow improvements in our products and services, adversely affect our ability to respond to customers 
and limit our ability to increase production quickly if demand for our products increases.  In addition, delays in implementing 
planned restructuring activities or other productivity improvements, unexpected costs or failure to meet targeted improvements 
may diminish the operational or financial benefits we expect to realize from such actions.  Any of the circumstances described 
above could adversely impact our business and financial statements.

We may be required to recognize impairment charges for our goodwill and other intangible assets.

As of December 31, 2016, the net carrying value of our goodwill and other intangible assets totaled approximately $35.6 
billion.  In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, we periodically assess these assets to determine if they 
are impaired.  Significant negative industry or economic trends, disruptions to our business, inability to effectively integrate 
acquired businesses, unexpected significant changes or planned changes in use of our assets, changes in the structure of our 
business, divestitures, market capitalization declines, or increases in associated discount rates may impair our goodwill and 
other intangible assets.  Any charges relating to such impairments would adversely affect our results of operations in the 
periods recognized.

Foreign currency exchange rates may adversely affect our financial statements.

Sales and purchases in currencies other than the U.S. dollar expose us to fluctuations in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. 
dollar and may adversely affect our financial statements.  Increased strength of the U.S. dollar increases the effective price of 
our products sold in U.S. dollars into other countries, which may require us to lower our prices or adversely affect sales to the 
extent we do not increase local currency prices.  Decreased strength of the U.S. dollar could adversely affect the cost of 
materials, products and services we purchase overseas.  Sales and expenses of our non-U.S. businesses are also translated into 
U.S. dollars for reporting purposes and the strengthening or weakening of the U.S. dollar could result in unfavorable translation 
effects.  In addition, certain of our businesses may invoice customers in a currency other than the business’ functional currency, 
19

and movements in the invoiced currency relative to the functional currency could also result in unfavorable translation effects.  
The Company also faces exchange rate risk from its investments in subsidiaries owned and operated in foreign countries.

Changes in our tax rates or exposure to additional income tax liabilities or assessments could affect our profitability.  In 
addition, audits by tax authorities could result in additional tax payments for prior periods.

We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and in various non-U.S. jurisdictions.  Refer to the MD&A for a discussion of the 
factors that may adversely affect our effective tax rate and decrease our profitability in any period.  The impact of these factors 
may be substantially different from period-to-period.  In addition, the amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing 
audits by U.S. federal, state and local tax authorities and by non-U.S. tax authorities, such as the audits described in the MD&A 
and the Company’s financial statements.  Due to the potential for changes to tax laws (or changes to the interpretation thereof) 
and the ambiguity of tax laws, the subjectivity of factual interpretations, the complexity of our intercompany arrangements and 
other factors, our estimates of income tax assets or liabilities may differ from actual payments, assessments or receipts.  If these 
audits result in payments or assessments different from our reserves, our future results may include unfavorable adjustments to 
our tax liabilities and our financial statements could be adversely affected.  If we determine to repatriate earnings from foreign 
jurisdictions that have been considered permanently re-invested under existing accounting standards, it could also increase our 
effective tax rate.  In addition, any significant change to the tax system in the United States or in other jurisdictions (including 
changes in the taxation of international income as further described below) could adversely affect our financial statements.

Changes in tax law relating to multinational corporations could adversely affect our tax position.

Recent legislative proposals seek to limit the ability of foreign-owned corporations to deduct interest expense, tax the 
accumulated unrepatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries of U.S. corporations, impose a minimum tax on the future offshore 
earnings of U.S. multinational groups and make other changes in the taxation of multinational corporations.  Additionally, the 
U.S. Congress, government agencies in non-U.S. jurisdictions where we and our affiliates do business, and the Organisation for 
Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”) have recently focused on issues related to the taxation of multinational 
corporations.  One example is in the area of “base erosion and profit shifting,” where profits are claimed to be earned for tax 
purposes in low-tax jurisdictions, or payments are made between affiliates from a jurisdiction with high tax rates to a 
jurisdiction with lower tax rates.  The OECD has released several components of its comprehensive plan to create an agreed set 
of international rules for addressing base erosion and profit shifting.  As a result, the tax laws in the United States and other 
countries in which we do business could change on a prospective or retroactive basis, and any such changes could adversely 
affect our business and financial statements.

We are subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings in the course of our business that could 
adversely affect our business and financial statements.

We are subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings incidental to our business (or the business 
operations of previously owned entities), including claims for damages arising out of the use of products or services and claims 
relating to intellectual property matters, employment matters, tax matters, commercial disputes, competition and sales and 
trading practices, environmental matters, personal injury, insurance coverage and acquisition or divestiture-related matters, as 
well as regulatory investigations or enforcement.  We may also become subject to lawsuits as a result of past or future 
acquisitions or as a result of liabilities retained from, or representations, warranties or indemnities provided in connection with, 
divested businesses.  The types of claims made in lawsuits include claims for compensatory damages, punitive and 
consequential damages and/or injunctive relief.  The defense of these lawsuits may divert our management’s attention, we may 
incur significant expenses in defending these lawsuits, and we may be required to pay damage awards or settlements or become 
subject to equitable remedies that could adversely affect our operations and financial statements.  Moreover, any insurance or 
indemnification rights that we may have may be insufficient or unavailable to protect us against such losses.  In addition, 
developments in proceedings in any given period may require us to adjust the loss contingency estimates that we have recorded 
in our financial statements, record estimates for liabilities or assets previously not susceptible of reasonable estimates or pay 
cash settlements or judgments.  Any of these developments could adversely affect our financial statements in any particular 
period.  We cannot assure you that our liabilities in connection with litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings will 
not exceed our estimates or adversely affect our financial statements and business.  However, based on our experience, current 
information and applicable law, we do not believe that it is reasonably possible that any amounts we may be required to pay in 
connection with litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings in excess of our reserves as of December 31, 2016 will 
have a material effect on our financial statements.

If we do not or cannot adequately protect our intellectual property, or if third-parties infringe our intellectual property 
rights, we may suffer competitive injury or expend significant resources enforcing our rights.

We own numerous patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and other intellectual property and licenses to intellectual 
property owned by others, which in aggregate are important to our business.  The intellectual property rights that we obtain, 

20

however, may not be sufficiently broad or otherwise may not provide us a significant competitive advantage, and patents may 
not be issued for pending or future patent applications owned by or licensed to us.  In addition, the steps that we and our 
licensors have taken to maintain and protect our intellectual property may not prevent it from being challenged, invalidated, 
circumvented, designed-around or becoming subject to compulsory licensing, particularly in countries where intellectual 
property rights are not highly developed or protected.  In some circumstances, enforcement may not be available to us because 
an infringer has a dominant intellectual property position or for other business reasons, or countries may require compulsory 
licensing of our intellectual property.  We also rely on nondisclosure and noncompetition agreements with employees, 
consultants and other parties to protect, in part, trade secrets and other proprietary rights.  There can be no assurance that these 
agreements will adequately protect our trade secrets and other proprietary rights and will not be breached, that we will have 
adequate remedies for any breach, that others will not independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information 
or that third-parties will not otherwise gain access to our trade secrets or other proprietary rights.  Our failure to obtain or 
maintain intellectual property rights that convey competitive advantage, adequately protect our intellectual property or detect or 
prevent circumvention or unauthorized use of such property and the cost of enforcing our intellectual property rights could 
adversely impact our business, including our competitive position, and financial statements.

Third-parties may claim that we are infringing or misappropriating their intellectual property rights and we could suffer 
significant litigation expenses, losses or licensing expenses or be prevented from selling products or services.

From time to time, we receive notices from third-parties alleging intellectual property infringement or misappropriation.  Any 
dispute or litigation regarding intellectual property could be costly and time-consuming due to the complexity of many of our 
technologies and the uncertainty of intellectual property litigation.  Our intellectual property portfolio may not be useful in 
asserting a counterclaim, or negotiating a license, in response to a claim of infringement or misappropriation.  In addition, as a 
result of such claims of infringement or misappropriation, we could lose our rights to critical technology, be unable to license 
critical technology or sell critical products and services, be required to pay substantial damages or license fees with respect to 
the infringed rights or be required to redesign our products at substantial cost, any of which could adversely impact our 
business, including our competitive position, and financial statements.  Even if we successfully defend against claims of 
infringement or misappropriation, we may incur significant costs and diversion of management attention and resources, which 
could adversely affect our business and financial statements.

The United States government has certain rights to use and disclose some of the intellectual property that we license and 
could exclusively license it to a third-party if we fail to achieve practical application of the intellectual property.

Certain technology licensed by us under agreements with third-party licensors may be subject to government rights. 
Government rights in inventions conceived or reduced to practice under a government-funded program may include a non-
exclusive, royalty-free worldwide license to practice or have practiced such inventions for any governmental purpose.  In 
addition, the United States government has the right to require us or our licensors (as applicable) to grant licenses which would 
be exclusive under any of such inventions to a third-party if they determine that: (1) adequate steps have not been taken to 
commercialize such inventions in a particular field of use; (2) such action is necessary to meet public health or safety needs; or 
(3) such action is necessary to meet requirements for public use under federal regulations.  Further, the government rights 
include the right to use and disclose, without limitation, technical data relating to licensed technology that was developed in 
whole or in part at government expense.

Defects and unanticipated use or inadequate disclosure with respect to our products or services (including software) could 
adversely affect our business, reputation and financial statements.

Manufacturing or design defects or “bugs” in, unanticipated use of, safety or quality issues (or the perception of such issues) 
with respect to, “off label” use of, or inadequate disclosure of risks relating to the use of products and services that we make or 
sell (including items that we source from third-parties) can lead to personal injury, death, property damage or other liability.  
These events could lead to recalls or safety alerts, result in the removal of a product or service from the market and result in 
product liability or similar claims being brought against us.  Recalls, removals and product liability and similar claims 
(regardless of their validity or ultimate outcome) can result in significant costs, as well as negative publicity and damage to our 
reputation that could reduce demand for our products and services.  Our business can also be affected by studies of the 
utilization, safety and efficacy of medical device products and components that are conducted by industry participants, 
government agencies and others.  Any of the above can result in the discontinuation of marketing of such products in one or 
more countries, and may give rise to claims for damages from persons who believe they have been injured as a result of product 
issues.

21

The manufacture of many of our products is a highly exacting and complex process, and if we directly or indirectly 
encounter problems manufacturing products, our reputation, business and financial statements could suffer.

The manufacture of many of our products is a highly exacting and complex process, due in part to strict regulatory 
requirements.  Problems may arise during manufacturing for a variety of reasons, including equipment malfunction, failure to 
follow specific protocols and procedures, problems with raw materials, natural disasters and environmental factors, and if not 
discovered before the product is released to market could result in recalls and product liability exposure.  Because of the time 
required to approve and license certain regulated manufacturing facilities and other stringent regulations of the FDA regarding 
the manufacture of certain of our products, an alternative manufacturer may not be available on a timely basis to replace such 
production capacity.  Any of these manufacturing problems could result in significant costs, liability and lost revenue, as well 
as negative publicity and damage to our reputation that could reduce demand for our products.

Our indebtedness may limit our operations and our use of our cash flow, and any failure to comply with the covenants that 
apply to our indebtedness could adversely affect our liquidity and financial statements.

As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately $12.3 billion in outstanding indebtedness.  In addition, as of December 31, 
2016 we had the ability to incur approximately an additional $1.1 billion of indebtedness in direct borrowings or under 
outstanding commercial paper facilities based on the amounts available under the Company’s $7.0 billion of credit facilities 
which were not being used to backstop outstanding commercial paper balances.  Our debt level and related debt service 
obligations can have negative consequences, including (1) requiring us to dedicate significant cash flow from operations to the 
payment of principal and interest on our debt, which reduces the funds we have available for other purposes such as 
acquisitions and capital investment; (2) reducing our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our business and 
market conditions; and (3) exposing us to interest rate risk since a portion of our debt obligations are at variable rates.  We may 
incur significantly more debt in the future, particularly to finance acquisitions, and there can be no assurance that our cost of 
funding will not substantially increase.

Our current revolving credit facilities and long-term debt obligations also impose certain restrictions on us; for more 
information refer to the MD&A.  If we breach any of these restrictions and do not obtain a waiver from the lenders, subject to 
applicable cure periods the outstanding indebtedness (and any other indebtedness with cross-default provisions) could be 
declared immediately due and payable, which would adversely affect our liquidity and financial statements.  In addition, any 
failure to maintain the credit ratings assigned to us by independent rating agencies would adversely affect our cost of funds and 
could adversely affect our liquidity and access to the capital markets.  If we add new debt, the risks described above could 
increase.

Adverse changes in our relationships with, or the financial condition, performance, purchasing patterns or inventory levels 
of, key distributors and other channel partners could adversely affect our financial statements.

Certain of our businesses sell a significant amount of their products to key distributors and other channel partners that have 
valuable relationships with customers and end-users.  Some of these distributors and other partners also sell our competitors’ 
products or compete with us directly, and if they favor competing products for any reason they may fail to market our products 
effectively.  Adverse changes in our relationships with these distributors and other partners, or adverse developments in their 
financial condition, performance or purchasing patterns, could adversely affect our business and financial statements.  The 
levels of inventory maintained by our distributors and other channel partners, and changes in those levels, can also significantly 
impact our results of operations in any given period.  In addition, the consolidation of distributors and customers in certain of 
our served industries could adversely impact our business and financial statements.

Certain of our businesses rely on relationships with collaborative partners and other third-parties for development, supply 
and marketing of certain products and potential products, and such collaborative partners or other third-parties could fail to 
perform sufficiently.

We believe that for certain of our businesses, success in penetrating target markets depends in part on their ability to develop 
and maintain collaborative relationships with other companies.  Relying on collaborative relationships is risky because, among 
other things, our collaborative partners (1) may not devote sufficient resources to the success of our collaborations; (2) may not 
obtain regulatory approvals necessary to continue the collaborations in a timely manner; (3) may be acquired by other 
companies and decide to terminate our collaborative partnership or become insolvent; (4) may compete with us; (5) may not 
agree with us on key details of the collaborative relationship; (6) may not have sufficient capital resources; and (7) may not 
agree to renew existing collaborations on acceptable terms.  Because these and other factors may be beyond our control, the 
development or commercialization of our products involved in collaborative partnerships may be delayed or otherwise 
adversely affected.  If we or any of our collaborative partners terminate a collaborative arrangement, we may be required to 
devote additional resources to product development and commercialization or we may need to cancel some development 
programs, which could adversely affect our business and financial statements.

22

Our financial results are subject to fluctuations in the cost and availability of commodities that we use in our operations.

As discussed in “Item 1. Business—Materials,” our manufacturing and other operations employ a wide variety of components, 
raw materials and other commodities.  Prices for and availability of these components, raw materials and other commodities 
have fluctuated significantly in the past.  Any sustained interruption in the supply of these items could adversely affect our 
business.  In addition, due to the highly competitive nature of the industries that we serve, the cost-containment efforts of our 
customers and the terms of certain contracts we are party to, if commodity prices rise we may be unable to pass along cost 
increases through higher prices.  If we are unable to fully recover higher commodity costs through price increases or offset 
these increases through cost reductions, or if there is a time delay between the increase in costs and our ability to recover or 
offset these costs, we could experience lower margins and profitability and our financial statements could be adversely affected.

If we cannot adjust our manufacturing capacity or the purchases required for our manufacturing activities to reflect 
changes in market conditions and customer demand, our profitability may suffer.  In addition, our reliance upon sole or 
limited sources of supply for certain materials, components and services could cause production interruptions, delays and 
inefficiencies.

We purchase materials, components and equipment from third-parties for use in our manufacturing operations.  Our income 
could be adversely impacted if we are unable to adjust our purchases to reflect changes in customer demand and market 
fluctuations, including those caused by seasonality or cyclicality.  During a market upturn, suppliers may extend lead times, 
limit supplies or increase prices.  If we cannot purchase sufficient products at competitive prices and quality and on a timely 
enough basis to meet increasing demand, we may not be able to satisfy market demand, product shipments may be delayed, our 
costs may increase or we may breach our contractual commitments and incur liabilities.  Conversely, in order to secure supplies 
for the production of products, we sometimes enter into noncancelable purchase commitments with vendors, which could 
impact our ability to adjust our inventory to reflect declining market demands.  If demand for our products is less than we 
expect, we may experience additional excess and obsolete inventories and be forced to incur additional charges and our 
profitability may suffer.

In addition, some of our businesses purchase certain requirements from sole or limited source suppliers for reasons of quality 
assurance, regulatory requirements, cost effectiveness, availability or uniqueness of design.  If these or other suppliers 
encounter financial, operating or other difficulties or if our relationship with them changes, we might not be able to quickly 
establish or qualify replacement sources of supply.  The supply chains for our businesses could also be disrupted by supplier 
capacity constraints, bankruptcy or exiting of the business for other reasons, decreased availability of key raw materials or 
commodities and external events such as natural disasters, pandemic health issues, war, terrorist actions, governmental actions 
and legislative or regulatory changes.  Any of these factors could result in production interruptions, delays, extended lead times 
and inefficiencies.

Because we cannot always immediately adapt our production capacity and related cost structures to changing market 
conditions, our manufacturing capacity may at times exceed or fall short of our production requirements.  Any or all of these 
problems could result in the loss of customers, provide an opportunity for competing products to gain market acceptance and 
otherwise adversely affect our financial statements.

Changes in governmental regulations may reduce demand for our products or services or increase our expenses.

We compete in markets in which we and our customers must comply with supranational, federal, state, local and other 
jurisdictional regulations, such as regulations governing health and safety, the environment, food and drugs, privacy and 
electronic communications.  We develop, configure and market our products and services to meet customer needs created by 
these regulations.  These regulations are complex, change frequently, have tended to become more stringent over time and may 
be inconsistent across jurisdictions.  Any significant change in any of these regulations (or in the interpretation or application 
thereof) could reduce demand for, increase our costs of producing or delay the introduction of new or modified products and 
services, or could restrict our existing activities, products and services.  In addition, in certain of our markets our growth 
depends in part upon the introduction of new regulations.  In these markets, the delay or failure of governmental and other 
entities to adopt or enforce new regulations, the adoption of new regulations which our products and services are not positioned 
to address or the repeal of existing regulations, could adversely affect demand.  In addition, regulatory deadlines may result in 
substantially different levels of demand for our products and services from period-to-period.

Work stoppages, union and works council campaigns and other labor disputes could adversely impact our productivity and 
results of operations.

We have a number of U.S. collective bargaining units and various non-U.S. collective labor arrangements.  We are subject to 
potential work stoppages, union and works council campaigns and other labor disputes, any of which could adversely impact 
our financial statements and business, including our productivity and reputation.

23

International economic, political, legal, compliance and business factors could negatively affect our financial statements.

In 2016, approximately 62% of our sales were derived from customers outside the United States.  In addition, many of our 
manufacturing operations, suppliers and employees are located outside the United States.  Since our growth strategy depends in 
part on our ability to further penetrate markets outside the United States and increase the localization of our products and 
services, we expect to continue to increase our sales and presence outside the United States, particularly in the high-growth 
markets.  Our international business (and particularly our business in high-growth markets) is subject to risks that are 
customarily encountered in non-U.S. operations, including:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

interruption in the transportation of materials to us and finished goods to our customers; 

differences in terms of sale, including payment terms;

local product preferences and product requirements;

changes in a country’s or region’s political or economic conditions, such as the devaluation of particular currencies;

trade protection measures, embargoes and import or export restrictions and requirements;

unexpected changes in laws or regulatory requirements, including changes in tax laws;

limitations on ownership and on repatriation of earnings and cash;

the potential for nationalization of enterprises;

changes in medical reimbursement policies and programs;

limitations on legal rights and our ability to enforce such rights;

difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations;

differing labor regulations;

difficulties in implementing restructuring actions on a timely or comprehensive basis; and

differing protection of intellectual property.

Any of these risks could negatively affect our financial statements and business, including our growth rate.

The results of the EU membership referendum in the United Kingdom could adversely affect customer demand, our 
relationships with customers and suppliers and our business and financial statements.

The results of the United Kingdom’s referendum on EU membership, advising for the exit of the United Kingdom from the EU, 
has caused and may continue to cause significant volatility in global stock markets, currency exchange rate fluctuations and 
global economic uncertainty.  Although it is unknown what the terms of the United Kingdom’s future relationship with the EU 
will be, it is possible that there will be greater restrictions on imports and exports between the United Kingdom and EU and 
increased regulatory complexities.  Any of these factors could adversely affect customer demand, our relationships with 
customers and suppliers and our business and financial statements.

If we suffer loss to our facilities, supply chains, distribution systems or information technology systems due to catastrophe 
or other events, our operations could be seriously harmed.

Our facilities, supply chains, distribution systems and information technology systems are subject to catastrophic loss due to 
fire, flood, earthquake, hurricane, public health crisis, war, terrorism or other natural or man-made disasters.  If any of these 
facilities, supply chains or systems were to experience a catastrophic loss, it could disrupt our operations, delay production and 
shipments, result in defective products or services, damage customer relationships and our reputation and result in legal 
exposure and large repair or replacement expenses.  The third-party insurance coverage that we maintain will vary from time to 
time in both type and amount depending on cost, availability and our decisions regarding risk retention, and may be unavailable 
or insufficient to protect us against such losses.

Our defined benefit pension plans are subject to financial market risks that could adversely affect our financial statements.

The performance of the financial markets and interest rates impact our defined benefit pension plan expenses and funding 
obligations.  Significant changes in market interest rates, decreases in the fair value of plan assets, investment losses on plan 

24

assets and changes in discount rates may increase our funding obligations and adversely impact our financial statements.  In 
addition, upward pressure on the cost of providing health care coverage to current employees and retirees may increase our 
future funding obligations and adversely affect our financial statements.

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

Danaher’s corporate headquarters are located in Washington, D.C. in a facility that the Company leases.  As of December 31, 
2016, the Company had facilities in over 60 countries, including approximately 242 significant manufacturing and distribution 
facilities.  112 of these facilities are located in the United States in over 25 states and 130 are located outside the United States 
in over 34 other countries, primarily in Europe and to a lesser extent in Asia, the rest of North America, South America and 
Australia.  These facilities cover approximately 21 million square feet, of which approximately 11 million square feet are 
owned and approximately 10 million square feet are leased.  Particularly outside the United States, facilities often serve more 
than one business segment and may be used for multiple purposes, such as administration, sales, manufacturing, warehousing 
and/or distribution.  The number of significant facilities by business segment is:

•  Life Sciences, 72;

•  Diagnostics, 77;

•  Dental, 46; and

•  Environmental & Applied Solutions, 47.

The Company considers its facilities suitable and adequate for the purposes for which they are used and does not anticipate 
difficulty in renewing existing leases as they expire or in finding alternative facilities.  The Company believes its properties and 
equipment have been well-maintained.  Refer to Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual 
Report for additional information with respect to the Company’s lease commitments.

ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Not applicable.

ITEM 4.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

25

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Set forth below are the names, ages, positions and experience of Danaher’s executive officers as of February 9, 2017.  All of 
Danaher’s executive officers hold office at the pleasure of Danaher’s Board of Directors.  Unless otherwise stated, the positions 
indicated are Danaher positions.

Name

Steven M. Rales

Mitchell P. Rales

Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.

Daniel L. Comas

Rainer M. Blair

William K. Daniel II

Brian W. Ellis

William H. King

Angela S. Lalor

Robert S. Lutz

Daniel A. Raskas

Age

65

60

56

53

52

52

50

49

51

59

50

Position

Officer Since

Chairman of the Board

Chairman of the Executive Committee

Chief Executive Officer and President

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Executive Vice President

Executive Vice President

Senior Vice President – General Counsel

Senior Vice President – Strategic Development

Senior Vice President – Human Resources

Senior Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer

Senior Vice President – Corporate Development

1984

1984

2002

1996

2014

2006

2016

2005

2012

2002

2004

Steven M. Rales is a co-founder of Danaher and has served on Danaher’s Board of Directors since 1983, serving as Danaher’s 
Chairman of the Board since 1984.  He was also CEO of the Company from 1984 to 1990.  Mr. Rales is also a member of the 
board of directors of Fortive Corporation, and is a brother of Mitchell P. Rales.

Mitchell P. Rales is a co-founder of Danaher and has served on Danaher’s Board of Directors since 1983, serving as Chairman 
of the Executive Committee of Danaher since 1984.  He was also President of the Company from 1984 to 1990.  Mr. Rales is 
also a member of the board of directors of Colfax Corporation and of Fortive Corporation, and is a brother of Steven M. Rales.

Thomas P. Joyce, Jr. has served on Danaher’s Board of Directors and as Danaher’s President and Chief Executive Officer since 
September 2014 after serving as Executive Vice President - CEO Designate from April 2014 to September 2014 and as 
Executive Vice President from 2006 to April 2014.

Daniel L. Comas has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2005.

Rainer M. Blair has served as Executive Vice President since 2017 after serving as Vice President - Group Executive from 
March 2014 until January 2017 and as President of Danaher’s Sciex business from January 2011 to March 2014.

William K. Daniel II has served as Executive Vice President since 2008.

Brian W. Ellis has served as Senior Vice President – General Counsel since joining Danaher in January 2016.  Prior to joining 
Danaher, Mr. Ellis served for over five years in progressively more responsible positions in the legal department of Medtronic, 
Inc., a medical device company, including most recently as Vice President and General Counsel of Medtronic’s Restorative 
Therapies Group.

William H. King has served as Senior Vice President – Strategic Development since May 2014 after serving as Vice President – 
Strategic Development from 2005 to May 2014.

Angela S. Lalor has served as Senior Vice President – Human Resources since joining Danaher in April 2012.  Prior to joining 
Danaher, Ms. Lalor served for 22 years in a series of progressively more responsible positions in the human resources 
department of 3M Company, a global manufacturing company, including most recently as Senior Vice President, Human 
Resources.

Robert S. Lutz has served as Senior Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer since February 2010.

Daniel A. Raskas has served as Senior Vice President – Corporate Development since February 2010.

26

PART II

ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND 
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DHR.  As of February 9, 2017, there were 
approximately 2,700 holders of record of Danaher’s common stock.  The high and low common stock prices per share as 
reported on the New York Stock Exchange, and the dividends declared per share, in each case for the periods described below, 
were as follows:

2016 (d)

Low

High

Dividends Per
Share

High

2015 (d)

Low

Dividends Per
Share

First quarter

Second quarter

Third quarter

Fourth quarter

$

95.89

$

81.25

$

102.79

82.64

81.30

92.45

76.15

75.71

0.16 (a) $
0.16
0.125 (b)
0.125

88.10

$

81.25

$

90.25

92.92

97.62

81.59

82.30

86.52

0.135 (c)
0.135

0.135

0.135

(a)  The Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in the first quarter of 2016 to $0.16 per share.
(b) Subsequent to the Separation of Fortive, the Company reduced its quarterly dividend rate to $0.125 per share.
(c)  The Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in the first quarter of 2015 to $0.135 per share.
(d) The stock prices in the above table on or prior to July 2, 2016, the date of the Fortive Separation, have not been adjusted for the Separation.

Our payment of dividends in the future will be determined by Danaher’s Board of Directors and will depend on business 
conditions, Danaher’s earnings and other factors Danaher’s Board deems relevant.  For a description of the distribution of the 
issued and outstanding common stock of Fortive pursuant to the Separation, refer to Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in this Annual Report.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

On July 16, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) authorizing 
the repurchase of up to 20 million shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately 
negotiated transactions.  There is no expiration date for the Repurchase Program, and the timing and amount of any shares 
repurchased under the program will be determined by the Company’s management based on its evaluation of market conditions 
and other factors.  The Repurchase Program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.  Any repurchased shares will be 
available for use in connection with the Company’s equity compensation plans (or any successor plan) and for other corporate 
purposes.  As of December 31, 2016, 20 million shares remained available for repurchase pursuant to the Repurchase Program.  
The Company expects to fund any future stock repurchases using the Company’s available cash balances or proceeds from the 
issuance of debt.

Except in connection with the disposition of the Company’s communications business to NetScout Systems, Inc. (“NetScout”) 
in 2015, neither the Company nor any “affiliated purchaser” repurchased any shares of Company common stock during 2016, 
2015 or 2014.  Refer to Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for discussion of the 26 
million shares of Danaher common stock tendered to and repurchased by the Company in connection with the disposition of the 
Company’s communications business to NetScout.

Recent Issuances of Unregistered Securities

During the fourth quarter of 2016, holders of certain of the Company’s Liquid Yield Option Notes due 2021 (“LYONs”) 
converted such LYONs into an aggregate of 21 thousand shares of Danaher common stock, par value $0.01 per share.  In each 
case, the shares of common stock were issued solely to existing security holders upon conversion of the LYONs pursuant to the 
exemption from registration provided under Section 3(a)(9) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

27

ITEM 6.  SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
($ in millions, except per share information)

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

Sales

$

16,882.4

$

14,433.7

$

12,866.9

$

12,360.9

$

11,720.8

Operating profit

2,750.9

2,162.2

2,045.0

1,929.9

1,812.9

Net earnings from
continuing operations

Earnings from
discontinued
operations, net of
income taxes

Net earnings

Net earnings per share
from continuing
operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per share
from discontinued
operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per
share:

Basic

Diluted

Dividends declared
per share

Total assets

Total debt

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2,153.4 (a)(b)

1,746.7 (d)

1,638.7 (f)

1,742.9 (g)

1,404.3

400.3

2,553.7 (a)(b)

$

1,610.7 (c)
3,357.4 (c)(d) $

959.7 (e)
2,598.4 (e)(f)

3.12 (a)(b)
3.08 (a)(b)

0.58

0.57

$

$

$

$

2.50 (d)
2.47 (d)

2.31 (c)
2.27 (c)

$

$

$

$

3.69 (a)(b) * $
3.65 (a)(b)
$

4.81 (c)(d) $
4.74 (c)(d) $

0.57 (i)

45,295.3

12,269.0

$

$

$

0.54 (j)

48,222.2

12,870.4

$

$

$

2.33 (f)
2.29 (f)

1.37 (e)
1.34 (e)

3.70 (e)(f)
3.63 (e)(f)

0.40 (k)

36,991.7

3,473.4

952.1

2,695.0 (g) $

987.9 (h)
2,392.2 (h)

2.50 (g) $
2.46 (g) $

2.03

1.98

1.37

1.34

$

$

1.42 (h)
1.39 (h)

3.87 (g) $
3.80 (g) $

3.45 (h)
3.36 (h) *

0.10

34,672.2

3,499.0

$

$

$

0.10

32,941.0

5,343.1

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(a)  Includes $223 million ($140 million after-tax or $0.20 per diluted share) gain on sale of certain marketable equity securities.  Refer to Note

13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for additional information.

(b) Includes $179 million ($112 million after-tax or $0.16 per diluted share) loss on extinguishment of borrowings, net of certain deferred

gains.  Refer to Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for additional information.

(c)  Includes $767 million after-tax gain ($1.08 per diluted share) on disposition of the Company’s communications business.  Refer to Note 3

to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for additional information.

(d) Includes $12 million ($8 million after-tax or $0.01 per diluted share) gain on sale of certain marketable equity securities.  Refer to Note 13

to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for additional information.

(e)  Includes $34 million ($26 million after-tax or $0.04 per diluted share) gain on sale of the Company’s electric vehicle systems (“EVS”)/

hybrid product line.

(f)  Includes $123 million ($77 million after-tax or $0.11 per diluted share) gain on sale of certain marketable equity securities.  Refer to Note

13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report for additional information.

(g) Includes $230 million ($144 million after-tax or $0.20 per diluted share) gain on sale of the Company’s investment in the Apex Tool

Group, LLC (“Apex”) joint venture and $202 million ($125 million after-tax or $0.18 per diluted share) gain on sale of certain marketable
equity securities.

(h) Includes $149 million ($94 million after-tax or $0.13 per diluted share) gain on sale of the Company’s Accu-Sort and Kollmorgen Electro-

Optical businesses.

(i)  The Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in 2016 to $0.16 per share and subsequently reduced its quarterly dividend rate to

$0.125 per share as a result of the Separation of Fortive in the third quarter of 2016.

(j)  The Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in 2015 to $0.135 per share.
(k) The Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in 2014 to $0.10 per share.
* Net earnings per share amounts do not add due to rounding.

28

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 
OPERATIONS

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is designed to provide a 
reader of Danaher’s financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of Company management.  The Company’s 
MD&A is divided into five sections:

•

•

•

•

•

Overview

Results of Operations

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Critical Accounting Estimates

New Accounting Standards

This discussion and analysis should be read along with Danaher’s audited financial statements and related Notes thereto as of 
December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 included in this Annual 
Report.  Unless otherwise indicated, references to sales in this Annual Report refer to sales from continuing operations.

OVERVIEW

General

Refer to “Item 1. Business—General” for a discussion of Danaher’s objectives and methodologies for delivering shareholder 
value.  Danaher is a multinational corporation with global operations.  During 2016, approximately 62% of Danaher’s sales 
were derived from customers outside the United States.  As a diversified, global business, Danaher’s operations are affected by 
worldwide, regional and industry-specific economic and political factors.  Danaher’s geographic and industry diversity, as well 
as the range of its products and services, help limit the impact of any one industry or the economy of any single country on its 
consolidated operating results.  Given the broad range of products manufactured, services provided and geographies served, 
management does not use any indices other than general economic trends to predict the overall outlook for the Company.  The 
Company’s individual businesses monitor key competitors and customers, including to the extent possible their sales, to gauge 
relative performance and the outlook for the future.

As a result of the Company’s geographic and industry diversity, the Company faces a variety of opportunities and challenges, 
including rapid technological development (particularly with respect to computing, mobile connectivity, communications and 
digitization) in most of the Company’s served markets, the expansion and evolution of opportunities in high-growth markets, 
trends and costs associated with a global labor force, consolidation of the Company’s competitors and increasing regulation.  
The Company operates in a highly competitive business environment in most markets, and the Company’s long-term growth 
and profitability will depend in particular on its ability to expand its business in high-growth geographies and high-growth 
market segments, identify, consummate and integrate appropriate acquisitions, develop innovative and differentiated new 
products and services with higher gross profit margins, expand and improve the effectiveness of the Company’s sales force, 
continue to reduce costs and improve operating efficiency and quality, and effectively address the demands of an increasingly 
regulated environment.  The Company is making significant investments, organically and through acquisitions, to address the 
rapid pace of technological change in its served markets and to globalize its manufacturing, research and development and 
customer-facing resources (particularly in high-growth markets) in order to be responsive to the Company’s customers 
throughout the world and improve the efficiency of the Company’s operations. 

Business Performance

Consolidated sales for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased 17.0% as compared to 2015.  While differences exist 
among the Company’s businesses, on an overall basis, demand for the Company’s products and services increased at a similar 
rate in 2016 as compared to 2015.  This demand, together with the Company’s continued investments in sales growth initiatives 
and the other business-specific factors discussed below, contributed to year-over-year sales growth from existing businesses of 
3.0% (for the definition of “sales from existing businesses,” refer to “—Results of Operations” below).  Geographically, both 
high-growth and developed markets contributed to year-over-year sales growth from existing businesses during 2016.  Sales 
growth rates from existing businesses in high-growth markets grew at a high-single digit rate in 2016 as compared to 2015 led 
by strength in China, India and Latin America partially offset by weakness in Eastern Europe.  High-growth markets 
represented approximately 29% of the Company’s total sales in 2016.  Sales from existing businesses in developed markets 
grew at a low-single digit rate in 2016 as compared to 2015 and were driven by North America and Western Europe.

29

The acquisitions of Pall and Cepheid, as further discussed below, provide additional sales and earnings growth opportunities for 
the Company’s Life Sciences and Diagnostics segments, respectively, by expanding each segment’s geographic and product 
line diversity, including new and complementary product and service offerings in the area of life sciences, filtration, separation 
and purification technologies (in the case of Pall) and molecular diagnostics (in the case of Cepheid), and through the potential 
future acquisition of complementary businesses.  As Pall and Cepheid are integrated into the Company, the Company also 
expects to realize significant cost synergies through the application of the Danaher Business System and the combined 
purchasing power of the Company, Pall and Cepheid.

Fortive Separation

On July 2, 2016, Danaher completed the Separation of its former Test & Measurement segment, Industrial Technologies 
segment (excluding the product identification businesses) and retail/commercial petroleum business by distributing to Danaher 
stockholders on a pro rata basis all of the issued and outstanding common stock of Fortive, the entity Danaher incorporated to 
hold such businesses.  To effect the Separation, Danaher distributed to its stockholders one share of Fortive common stock for 
every two shares of Danaher common stock outstanding as of June 15, 2016, the record date for the distribution.

During the second quarter of 2016, the Company received net cash distributions of approximately $3.0 billion from Fortive as 
consideration for the Company’s contribution of assets to Fortive in connection with the Separation (“Fortive Distribution”).  
Danaher used a portion of the cash distribution proceeds to repay the $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.3% senior 
unsecured notes that matured in June 2016 and to redeem approximately $1.9 billion in aggregate principal amount of 
outstanding indebtedness in August 2016 (consisting of the Company’s 5.625% senior unsecured notes due 2018, 5.4% senior 
unsecured notes due 2019 and 3.9% senior unsecured notes due 2021 (collectively the “Redeemed Notes”)).  Danaher also paid 
an aggregate of $188 million in make-whole premiums in connection with the August 2016 redemptions, plus accrued and 
unpaid interest.  The Company has also used, and intends to use, the balance of the Fortive Distribution to fund certain of the 
Company’s regular, quarterly cash dividends to shareholders. 

The accounting requirements for reporting the Separation of Fortive as a discontinued operation were met when the Separation 
was completed.  Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated financial statements for all periods presented reflect this business 
as a discontinued operation.  The Company allocated a portion of the consolidated interest expense and income to discontinued 
operations based on the ratio of the discontinued business’ net assets to the Company’s consolidated net assets.  Fortive had 
revenues of approximately $3.0 billion in 2016 prior to the Separation and approximately $6.1 billion in 2015. 

As a result of the Separation, the Company incurred $48 million in Separation-related costs during the year ended 
December 31, 2016 which are included in earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes in the accompanying 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  These Separation costs primarily relate to professional fees associated with preparation 
of regulatory filings and Separation activities within finance, tax, legal and information system functions as well as certain 
investment banking fees and tax liabilities incurred upon the Separation. 

Acquisitions

On November 4, 2016, Copper Merger Sub, Inc., a California corporation and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Cepheid, a California corporation, for $53.00 per share in 
cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $4.0 billion, including assumed debt and net of acquired cash (the “Cepheid 
Acquisition”).  Cepheid is a leading global molecular diagnostics company that develops, manufactures and markets accurate 
and easy to use molecular systems and tests and is now part of the Company’s Diagnostics segment.  Cepheid generated 
revenues of $539 million in 2015.  The Company financed the Cepheid acquisition price with available cash and proceeds from 
the issuance of U.S. dollar and euro-denominated commercial paper. 

In addition to the Cepheid Acquisition, during 2016 the Company acquired seven businesses for total consideration of $882 
million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these seven businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based 
on the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were $237 million. 

For a discussion of the Company’s 2015 and 2014 acquisition and disposition activity, refer to “Liquidity and Capital 
Resources—Investing Activities”.

Sale of Investments

The Company received $265 million of cash proceeds from the sale of certain marketable equity securities during 2016.  The 
Company recorded a pretax gain related to this sale of $223 million ($140 million after-tax or $0.20 per diluted share).

30

For a discussion of the Company’s 2015 and 2014 sale of investments activity, refer to “Liquidity and Capital Resources—
Investing Activities”.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In this report, references to sales from existing businesses refer to sales from continuing operations calculated according to 
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) but excluding (1) sales from acquired businesses and 
(2) the impact of currency translation.  References to sales or operating profit attributable to acquisitions or acquired businesses
refer to GAAP sales or operating profit, as applicable, from acquired businesses recorded prior to the first anniversary of the
acquisition less the amount of sales and operating profit, as applicable, attributable to divested product lines not considered
discontinued operations.  The portion of revenue attributable to currency translation is calculated as the difference between
(a) the period-to-period change in revenue (excluding sales from acquired businesses) and (b) the period-to-period change in
revenue (excluding sales from acquired businesses) after applying current period foreign exchange rates to the prior year
period.  Sales from existing businesses should be considered in addition to, and not as a replacement for or superior to, sales,
and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.  Management believes that reporting the
non-GAAP financial measure of sales from existing businesses provides useful information to investors by helping identify
underlying growth trends in Danaher’s business and facilitating easier comparisons of Danaher’s revenue performance with its
performance in prior and future periods and to Danaher’s peers.  The Company excludes the effect of currency translation from
sales from existing businesses because currency translation is not under management’s control, is subject to volatility and can
obscure underlying business trends, and excludes the effect of acquisitions and divestiture related items because the nature, size
and number of acquisitions and divestitures can vary dramatically from period-to-period and between the Company and its
peers and can also obscure underlying business trends and make comparisons of long-term performance difficult.  Throughout
this discussion, references to sales volume refer to the impact of both price and unit sales and references to productivity
improvements generally refer to improved cost efficiencies resulting from the application of the Danaher Business System.

Sales Growth (GAAP)

Total sales growth

Components of Sales Growth (non-GAAP)

Existing businesses

Acquisitions

Currency exchange rates

Total

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

17.0%

12.0%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

3.0 %

15.0 %

(1.0)%

17.0 %

3.5 %

15.5 %

(7.0)%

12.0 %

Sales from existing businesses grew on a year-over-year basis in all segments in both 2016 and 2015.  Sales from acquired 
businesses grew on a year-over-year basis in both years primarily due to the acquisitions of Pall in the third quarter of 2015 and 
Cepheid in the fourth quarter of 2016.  The impact of currency translation reduced on a year-over-year basis reported sales in 
both years as the U.S. dollar was, on average, stronger against other major currencies.

Operating profit margins were 16.3% for the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared to 15.0% in 2015.  The following 
factors impacted year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by: 

•

•

Higher 2016 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2016 and 2015, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2016 - 115 basis points

Acquisition-related charges in 2015 associated with the acquisition of Pall, including transaction costs deemed
significant, change in control payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue, net of
the positive impact of freezing pension benefits - 90 basis points

31

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in the first quarter of 2015 associated with the acquisition of Nobel Biocare, primarily
related to fair value adjustments to acquired inventory - 15 basis points

The 2016 gains on resolution of acquisition-related matters - 10 basis points

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in 2016 associated primarily with the acquisition of Cepheid, including transaction costs
deemed significant, change in control and restructuring payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory
and deferred revenue - 50 basis points

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses - 50 basis points

The Company deems acquisition-related transaction costs incurred in a given period to be significant (generally relating to the 
Company’s larger acquisitions) if it determines that such costs exceed the range of acquisition-related transaction costs typical 
for the Company in a given period.

Operating profit margins were 15.0% for the year ended December 31, 2015 as compared to 15.9% in 2014.  The following 
factors impacted year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Higher 2015 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2014, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2015 - 85 basis points

Lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives -
30 basis points

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in 2015 associated with the acquisition of Pall, including transaction costs deemed
significant, change in control payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue, net of
the positive impact of freezing pension benefits - 90 basis points

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2015 of acquired businesses, including Pall, net of the positive effect of the
product line disposition in the third quarter of 2014 - 115 basis points

Business Segments

Sales by business segment for the years ended December 31 are as follows ($ in millions):

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

LIFE SCIENCES

2016

2015

2014

$

5,365.9

$

3,314.6

$

5,038.3

2,785.4

3,692.8

4,832.5

2,736.8

3,549.8

2,511.5

4,618.8

2,193.1

3,543.5

$

16,882.4

$

14,433.7

$

12,866.9

The Company’s Life Sciences segment offers a broad range of research tools that scientists use to study the basic building 
blocks of life, including genes, proteins, metabolites and cells, in order to understand the causes of disease, identify new 
therapies and test new drugs and vaccines.  The segment, through its Pall business, is also a leading provider of filtration, 
separation and purification technologies to the biopharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical, aerospace, microelectronics and 
general industrial sectors. 

32

Life Sciences Selected Financial Data 

($ in millions)
Sales
Operating profit
Depreciation
Amortization
Operating profit as a % of sales
Depreciation as a % of sales
Amortization as a % of sales

Sales Growth (GAAP)

Total sales growth

Components of Sales Growth (non-GAAP)

Existing businesses

Acquisitions

Currency exchange rates

Total

2016 Compared to 2015

$

For the Year Ended December 31

$

2016
5,365.9
818.9
126.8
299.4
15.3%
2.4%
5.6%

$

2015
3,314.6
329.2
77.3
132.8

9.9%
2.3%
4.0%

2014
2,511.5
368.5
51.9
49.2
14.7%
2.1%
2.0%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

62.0%

32.0%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

3.5 %

59.0 %

(0.5)%

62.0 %

3.0 %

35.5 %

(6.5)%

32.0 %

Price increases did not have a significant impact on sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2016 as compared with 2015.

Sales of the business’ broad range of mass spectrometers continued to grow on a year-over-year basis led by strong sales 
growth in the pharmaceutical market in China and India as well as the services businesses.  This growth was partially offset by 
declines in the overall market in Japan and softness in demand in the clinical end-market in North America.  Sales of 
microscopy products were essentially flat on a year-over-year basis with growth in demand in North America and China offset 
by declines in Japan.  Year-over-year demand for the business’ flow cytometry and particle counting products grew in 2016, led 
by increases in demand in North America, Western Europe and China.

The acquisition of Pall in August 2015 contributed the majority of the increase in sales from acquisitions.  During the year 
ended December 31, 2016, Pall’s revenues grew on a year-over-year basis compared to the business’ 2015 results, led by 
continued growth in the life sciences business primarily due to demand for biopharmaceutical solutions including single-use 
technologies, partially offset by soft demand in the industrial business as a result of overall market weakness.

Operating profit margins increased 540 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors impacted year-
over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Higher 2016 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2016 and 2015, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2016 - 175 basis points

Acquisition-related charges in 2015 associated with the acquisition of Pall, including transaction costs deemed
significant, change in control payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue, net of
the positive impact of freezing pension benefits - 390 basis points

33

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in 2016, including transaction costs deemed significant, change in control and
restructuring payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue - 10 basis points

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses - 15 basis points

Depreciation and amortization expense increased during 2016 as compared to 2015 due primarily to the impact of recently 
acquired businesses, particularly Pall.

2015 Compared to 2014 

Price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2015 as compared with 2014 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s life sciences business grew at a low-single digit rate during 2015 as compared 
to 2014.  Geographically, sales grew on a year-over-year basis in North America and Western Europe partially offset by 
declines in the Middle East and Brazil.  Sales of the business’ broad range of mass spectrometers continued to grow on a year-
over-year basis led by strong sales growth in the clinical markets in North America, Western Europe and China.  Sales of 
confocal and stereo microscopy products decreased on a year-over-year basis led by declines in Western Europe and high-
growth markets which were partially offset by growth in surgical microscopy products, primarily in North America.  Year-over-
year demand for the business’ flow cytometry and sample preparation product lines grew in 2015, led by increases in demand 
in North America, Western Europe and China.

The acquisition of Pall in August 2015 contributed the majority of the increase in sales from acquisitions for 2015.

Operating profit margins declined 480 basis points during 2015 as compared to 2014.  The following factors impacted year-
over-year operating profit margin comparisons. 

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Higher 2015 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2014, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2015 - 30 basis points

Lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives -
25 basis points

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in 2015 associated with the acquisition of Pall, including transaction costs deemed
significant, change in control payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue, net of
the positive impact of freezing pension benefits - 390 basis points

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2015 of acquired businesses (including Pall) - 145 basis points

Depreciation and amortization expense increased during 2015 as compared to 2014 due primarily to the impact of recently 
acquired businesses, particularly Pall, and the resulting increase in depreciable and amortizable assets.

DIAGNOSTICS

The Company’s Diagnostics segment offers analytical instruments, reagents, consumables, software and services that hospitals, 
physicians’ offices, reference laboratories and other critical care settings use to diagnose disease and make treatment decisions. 

34

Diagnostics Selected Financial Data

($ in millions)
Sales

Operating profit

Depreciation

Amortization

Operating profit as a % of sales

Depreciation as a % of sales

Amortization as a % of sales

Sales Growth (GAAP)

Total sales growth

Components of Sales Growth (non-GAAP)

Existing businesses

Acquisitions

Currency exchange rates

Total

2016 Compared to 2015

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

5,038.3

$

4,832.5

$

4,618.8

786.4

332.1

149.4

15.6%

6.6%

3.0%

746.2

314.9

134.8

15.4%

6.5%

2.8%

725.0

319.9

117.9

15.7%

6.9%

2.6%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

4.5%

4.5%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

2.5 %

3.0 %

(1.0)%

4.5 %

4.0 %

7.0 %

(6.5)%

4.5 %

Price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2016 as compared with 2015 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Geographically, demand in the clinical lab business increased on a year-over-year basis led by continuing strong demand in 
high-growth markets, particularly China, partially offset by declines in North America.  Increased demand in the immunoassay 
products drove the majority of growth for the year in the clinical business.  Continued strong consumable sales in 2016 
particularly in China, Western Europe, North America and Japan drove the majority of the year-over-year sales growth in the 
acute care diagnostic business.  Increased demand for advanced staining consumables, particularly in North America and 
China, and core histology instruments across most major geographies, but particularly in China, drove the majority of the year-
over-year sales growth in the pathology diagnostics business.

The acquisition of Cepheid in November 2016 provides additional sales and earnings growth opportunities for the segment by 
expanding geographic and product line diversity, including new product and service offerings in the areas of molecular 
diagnostics.  As Cepheid is integrated into the Company over the next several years, the Company expects to realize significant 
synergies through the application of the Danaher Business System.

Operating profit margins increased 20 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors impacted year-
over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

Higher 2016 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2016 and 2015, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2016 - 200 basis points

35

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

•

Acquisition-related charges in 2016 associated with the acquisition of Cepheid, including transaction costs deemed
significant, change in control and restructuring payments, and fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and
deferred revenue - 150 basis points

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses - 30 basis points

Amortization increased during 2016 as compared with 2015 primarily due to the impact of recently acquired businesses 
including Cepheid and the resulting increase in amortizable assets.

2015 Compared to 2014 

Price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2015 as compared with 2014 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s diagnostics business grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2015 as compared to 
2014.  Demand in the clinical lab business increased on a year-over-year basis led by growth in the urinalysis and immunoassay 
consumable products primarily from continuing strong demand in China and other high-growth markets.  Continued strong 
consumable sales in 2015 related to the installed base of blood gas instruments in developed markets as well as strong 
instrument placement particularly in China and the Middle East drove the majority of the year-over-year sales growth in the 
critical care diagnostic business.  Increased demand for advanced staining systems and consumables as well as probes primarily 
in North America and China drove the majority of the year-over-year sales growth in the anatomical pathology diagnostics 
business.

Operating profit margins declined 30 basis points during 2015 as compared to 2014.  The following factors impacted year-over-
year operating profit margin comparisons.

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Higher 2015 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2014, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2015 - 40 basis points

Lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives -
30 basis points

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2015 of acquired businesses - 100 basis points

DENTAL

The Company’s Dental segment provides products that are used to diagnose, treat and prevent disease and ailments of the teeth, 
gums and supporting bone, as well as to improve the aesthetics of the human smile.  The Company is a leading worldwide 
provider of a broad range of dental consumables, equipment and services, and is dedicated to driving technological innovations 
that help dental professionals improve clinical outcomes and enhance productivity. 

Dental Selected Financial Data 

($ in millions)
Sales

Operating profit
Depreciation

Amortization

Operating profit as a % of sales

Depreciation as a % of sales

Amortization as a % of sales

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

2,785.4

$

2,736.8

$

2,193.1

419.4
43.8

83.4

15.1%

1.6%

3.0%

370.4
50.0

82.0

13.5%

1.8%

3.0%

304.4
35.9

49.1

13.9%

1.6%

2.2%

36

Sales Growth (GAAP)

Total sales growth

Components of Sales Growth (non-GAAP)

Existing businesses

Acquisitions

Currency exchange rates

Total

2016 Compared to 2015 

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

2.0%

25.0%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

2.0 %

0.5 %

(0.5)%

2.0 %

— %

32.5 %

(7.5)%

25.0 %

Price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2016 as compared with 2015 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Geographically, year-over-year sales growth was strong in China and other high-growth markets, with low-single digit growth 
in the United States partially offset by lower demand in Western Europe.  Continued strong year-over-year demand for implant 
solutions, particularly in China and North America, and increased demand for orthodontic products, primarily in China and 
Russia, drove growth during 2016.  Dental equipment sales also increased during 2016, primarily in high-growth markets and 
North America partially offset by weaker demand in Western Europe.  Lower demand for dental consumable product lines in 
North America and the Middle East partially offset this year-over-year growth in 2016.

Operating profit margins increased 160 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors impacted year-
over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Higher 2016 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2016 and 2015, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2016 - 90 basis points

Acquisition-related charges in the first quarter of 2015 associated with the acquisition of Nobel Biocare, primarily
related to fair value adjustments to acquired inventory - 80 basis points

2016 vs. 2015 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses - 10 basis points

2015 Compared to 2014 

Price increases in the segment contributed 0.5% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2015 as compared with 2014 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Sales from existing businesses were flat on a year-over-year basis as increased demand for dental treatment units and 
consumable products, including orthodontic products, primarily in China and other high-growth markets, was offset by softness 
in demand for imaging products, largely due to destocking in the North American distribution channel, and weaker demand in 
Western Europe.  Lower year-over-year demand for dental equipment in the Middle East due to slower project activity during 
2015 also adversely impacted year-over-year performance.  The acquisition of Nobel Biocare in December 2014 has provided 
additional sales and earnings growth opportunities for the Company’s Dental segment by expanding the businesses’ geographic 
and product line diversity, including new and complementary product and service offerings in the area of implant based tooth 
replacements.

37

Operating profit margins declined 40 basis points during 2015 as compared to 2014.  The following factors impacted year-over-
year operating profit margin comparisons.

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

•

Incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring actions and continuing productivity
improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2014, net of incremental year-over-year costs associated with various
product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2015 - 45
basis points

Lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives -
10 basis points

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2015 of acquired businesses - 95 basis points

Depreciation and amortization increased during 2015 as compared with 2014 due primarily to the impact of recently acquired 
businesses, primarily Nobel Biocare, and the resulting increase in depreciable and amortizable assets.

ENVIRONMENTAL & APPLIED SOLUTIONS

The Company’s Environmental & Applied Solutions segment products and services help protect important resources and keep 
global food and water supplies safe.  The Company’s water quality business provides instrumentation, services and disinfection 
systems to help analyze, treat and manage the quality of ultra-pure, potable, waste, ground, source and ocean water in 
residential, commercial, industrial and natural resource applications.  The Company’s product identification business provides 
equipment, consumables, software and services for various printing, marking, coding, traceability, packaging, design and color 
management applications on consumer, pharmaceutical and industrial products.

Environmental & Applied Solutions Selected Financial Data 

($ in millions)
Sales

Operating profit

Depreciation

Amortization

Operating profit as a % of sales

Depreciation as a % of sales

Amortization as a % of sales

Sales Growth (GAAP)

Total sales growth

Components of Sales Growth (non-GAAP)

Existing businesses
Acquisitions
Currency exchange rates
Total

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

3,692.8

$

3,549.8

$

3,543.5

870.0

35.8

50.9

23.6%

1.0%

1.4%

866.6

35.0

47.2

24.4%

1.0%

1.3%

781.8

35.6

53.0

22.1%

1.0%

1.5%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

4.0%

—%

2016 vs. 2015

2015 vs. 2014

3.0 %
2.5 %
(1.5)%
4.0 %

4.5 %
2.0 %
(6.5)%
— %

38

2016 Compared to 2015 

Price increases in the segment contributed 1.0% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2016 as compared with 2015 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s water quality businesses grew at a low-single digit rate during 2016 as 
compared with 2015.  Year-over-year sales in the analytical instrumentation product line grew, as increases in sales to the U.S. 
municipal end-market and Western Europe were partially offset by lower demand in Eastern Europe and China.  Year-over-year 
sales growth in the business’ chemical treatment solutions product line was due primarily to an expansion of the customer base 
in the United States.  Chemical treatment solutions saw an improvement in commodity oriented end-markets in Latin America 
in the fourth quarter of 2016 after declining growth in the earlier portion of 2016.  Sales in the business’ ultraviolet water 
disinfection product line grew on a year-over-year basis due primarily to higher demand in municipal and industrial end-
markets in Western Europe, China and Australia. 

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s product identification businesses grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2016 as 
compared with 2015.  Continued strong year-over-year demand for marking and coding equipment and related consumables in 
most major geographies, led by North America, Western Europe and Latin America, drove the majority of the sales growth. 
Demand for the business’ packaging and color solutions was flat year-over-year, as sales growth in the second half of the year 
was offset by weakness in the first half of the year.  Geographically, increased demand in the high-growth markets was offset 
by weaker demand in North America and Europe.

Operating profit margins declined 80 basis points during 2016 as compared to 2015.  The following factors unfavorably 
impacted year-over-year operating profit margin comparisons:

•

•

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2016 of acquired businesses - 75 basis points

Incremental year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth
investments and the effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2016, net of higher 2016 sales volumes from existing businesses
and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring actions and continuing productivity
improvement initiatives taken in 2016 and 2015 - 5 basis points

2015 Compared to 2014

Price increases in the segment contributed 1.0% to sales growth on a year-over-year basis during 2015 as compared with 2014 
and are reflected as a component of the change in sales from existing businesses.

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s water quality businesses grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2015 as 
compared with 2014.  Sales growth in the analytical instrumentation product line continued to be led by strong sales of 
instruments and related consumables and services in North America, primarily in the U.S. municipal end-market, Europe and 
China (although growth slowed sequentially in China during the fourth quarter of 2015, partly due to delays in government 
projects).  Year-over-year sales growth in the business’ chemical treatment solutions product line was due to continued growth 
in the United States as well as continued business expansion in Latin America.  Sales in the business’ ultraviolet water 
disinfection product line grew on a year-over-year basis due to continued demand in industrial disinfection end-markets in the 
United States and municipal end-markets in the United States and Western Europe.

Sales from existing businesses in the segment’s product identification businesses grew at a mid-single digit rate during 2015 as 
compared with 2014, due to continued increased demand for marking and coding equipment and related consumables as well as 
packaging and color solutions.  Geographically, year-over-year sales growth was led by North America and Europe (although 
North America declined slightly in the fourth quarter of 2015), but was partly offset by softer demand for the business’ 
packaging and color solutions in Brazil and Russia.

Operating profit margins increased 230 basis points during 2015 as compared to 2014.  The following factors impacted year-
over-year operating profit margin comparisons.

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were favorably impacted by:

•

Higher 2015 sales volumes from existing businesses and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the
restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives taken in 2015 and 2014, net of incremental
year-over-year costs associated with various product development, sales and marketing growth investments and the
effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in 2015 - 225 basis points

39

•

Lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives -
50 basis points

2015 vs. 2014 operating profit margin comparisons were unfavorably impacted by:

•

The incremental net dilutive effect in 2015 of acquired businesses - 45 basis points

COST OF SALES AND GROSS PROFIT

($ in millions)
Sales

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Gross profit margin

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

16,882.4
(7,547.8)
9,334.6

$

$

2015

14,433.7
(6,662.6)
7,771.1

$

$

2014

12,866.9
(6,017.4)
6,849.5

$

$

55.3%

53.8%

53.2%

The year-over-year increase in cost of sales during 2016 as compared with 2015, is due primarily to the impact of higher year-
over-year sales volumes, including sales from recently acquired businesses.  This increase in cost of sales was partially offset 
by year-over-year cost savings at recently acquired businesses, particularly Pall, incremental year-over-year cost savings 
associated with the restructuring and continued productivity improvement actions taken in 2016 and 2015, and the year-over-
year decrease in acquisition-related charges associated with fair value adjustments to acquired inventory which decreased cost 
of sales by $85 million during 2016 as compared to 2015.

The year-over-year increase in cost of sales during 2015 as compared with 2014, is due primarily to the impact of higher year-
over-year sales volumes, including sales volumes from recently acquired businesses, and 2015 acquisition-related charges 
associated with fair value adjustments to acquired inventory in connection with the acquisition of Pall and Nobel Biocare 
during the third quarter of 2015 and the fourth quarter of 2014, respectively, which increased cost of sales by $106 million 
during 2015.  These factors were partially offset by lower year-over-year costs associated with restructuring actions and 
continuing productivity improvement initiatives and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring 
actions and continuing productivity improvements taken in 2015 and 2014.

The year-over-year increase in gross profit margins during 2016 as compared with 2015 is due primarily to the favorable 
impact of higher year-over-year sales volumes, incremental year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring 
actions and continuing productivity improvements taken in 2016 and 2015 and improved gross profit margins on a year-over-
year basis at recently acquired businesses, particularly Pall.  In addition, the acquisition-related charges associated with fair 
value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue were higher in 2015 than 2016, which improved gross profit 
margins by 50 basis points during 2016 as compared with 2015.

The year-over-year increase in gross profit margins during 2015 as compared with 2014 is due primarily to the favorable 
impact of higher year-over-year sales volumes, higher gross profit margins of recently acquired businesses and incremental 
year-over-year cost savings associated with the restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvements taken in 2015 
and 2014.  These positive factors more than offset the increase in acquisition-related charges associated with fair value 
adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue in connection with the acquisition of Pall and Nobel Biocare during the 
third quarter of 2015 and the fourth quarter of 2014, respectively, which adversely impacted gross profit margins comparisons 
by 80 basis points during 2015 as compared with 2014.

OPERATING EXPENSES

($ in millions)
Sales

Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses
Research and development (“R&D”) expenses
SG&A as a % of sales

R&D as a % of sales

40

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

$

16,882.4
(5,608.6)
(975.1)
33.2%

5.8%

$

14,433.7
(4,747.5)
(861.4)
32.9%

6.0%

12,866.9
(4,035.1)
(769.4)
31.4%

6.0%

The increase in SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales from 2015 to 2016 was driven by continued investments in sales and 
marketing growth initiatives and higher relative spending levels at recently acquired businesses.  Change in control payments 
and restructuring costs in connection with the acquisition of Cepheid, as well as associated transaction costs, also increased 
SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales by 35 basis points during 2016.  These increases were partially offset by the benefit of 
increased leverage of the Company’s general and administrative cost base resulting from higher 2016 sales, lower year-over-
year costs associated continuing productivity improvement initiatives and incremental year-over-year cost savings associated 
with the restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvements taken in 2016 and 2015 as well as the benefit of lower 
Pall acquisition charges in 2016 compared to 2015 as described below.

SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales increased 150 basis points on a year-over-year basis for 2015 compared with 2014.  
The increase in SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales from 2014 to 2015 was driven by continued investments in sales and 
marketing growth initiatives and higher relative spending levels at recently acquired businesses.  Change in control payments to 
Pall employees in connection with the acquisition of Pall, as well as associated transaction costs and amortization charges 
associated with acquisition-related intangible assets, net of the positive impact of freezing pension benefits, adversely impacted 
SG&A expenses as a percentage of sales by 30 basis points during 2015.  These increases were partially offset by the benefit of 
increased leverage of the Company’s general and administrative cost base resulting from higher 2015 sales, lower year-over-
year costs associated with restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvement initiatives and incremental year-over-
year cost savings associated with the restructuring actions and continuing productivity improvements taken in 2015 and 2014.

R&D expenses (consisting principally of internal and contract engineering personnel costs) as a percentage of sales declined in 
2016 as compared with 2015 due primarily to lower R&D expenses as a percentage of sales in the businesses most recently 
acquired, particularly Pall, as well as year-over-year differences in the timing of investments in the Company’s new product 
development initiatives.  R&D expenses as a percentage of sales were flat in 2015 as compared to 2014.

NONOPERATING INCOME (EXPENSE) 

In the third quarter of 2016, the Company paid $188 million of make-whole premiums associated with the early extinguishment 
of the Redeemed Notes.  The Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of these borrowings, net of certain deferred gains, of 
$179 million ($112 million after-tax or $0.16 per diluted share).

The Company received $265 million of cash proceeds from the sale of certain marketable equity securities during the first 
quarter of 2016.  The Company recorded a pretax gain related to this sale of $223 million ($140 million after-tax or $0.20 per 
diluted share).

During 2015, the Company received cash proceeds of $43 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $12 million ($8 million after-tax or $0.01 per diluted share).

During 2014, the Company received cash proceeds of $167 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $123 million ($77 million after-tax or $0.11 per diluted share). 

INTEREST COSTS

Interest expense of $184 million for 2016 was $45 million higher than in 2015, due primarily to the higher interest costs 
associated with the debt issued in the second half of 2015 in connection with the 2015 acquisition of Pall, partially offset by 
decreases in interest costs as a result of the early extinguishment of the Redeemed Notes in the third quarter of 2016 using the 
proceeds from the Fortive Distribution.  For a further description of the Company’s debt as of December 31, 2016 refer to Note 
9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Interest expense of $140 million in 2015 was $45 million higher than the 2014 
interest expense of $95 million due primarily to the higher interest costs associated with the debt issued in the second half of 
2015 in connection with the acquisition of Pall.

INCOME TAXES

General

Income tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities reflect management’s assessment of future taxes expected to be paid 
on items reflected in the Company’s financial statements.  The Company records the tax effect of discrete items and items that 
are reported net of their tax effects in the period in which they occur.

The Company’s effective tax rate can be affected by changes in the mix of earnings in countries with different statutory tax 
rates (including as a result of business acquisitions and dispositions), changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and 
liabilities, accruals related to contingent tax liabilities and period-to-period changes in such accruals, the results of audits and 

41

examinations of previously filed tax returns (as discussed below), the expiration of statutes of limitations, the implementation 
of tax planning strategies, tax rulings, court decisions, settlements with tax authorities and changes in tax laws, including 
legislative policy changes that may result from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s initiative on 
Base Erosion and Profit Shifting and potential tax reform in the United States.  For a description of the tax treatment of 
earnings that are planned to be reinvested indefinitely outside the United States, refer to “—Liquidity and Capital Resources – 
Cash and Cash Requirements” below.

The amount of income taxes the Company pays is subject to ongoing audits by federal, state and foreign tax authorities, which 
often result in proposed assessments.  Management performs a comprehensive review of its global tax positions on a quarterly 
basis.  Based on these reviews, the results of discussions and resolutions of matters with certain tax authorities, tax rulings and 
court decisions and the expiration of statutes of limitations, reserves for contingent tax liabilities are accrued or adjusted as 
necessary.  For a discussion of risks related to these and other tax matters, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors”.

Year-Over-Year Changes in the Tax Provision and Effective Tax Rate

The Company’s effective tax rate related to continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was 
17.5%, 14.4% and 21.5%, respectively.

The Company’s effective tax rate for each of 2016, 2015 and 2014 differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35.0% due 
principally to the Company’s earnings outside the United States that are indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the 
U.S. federal statutory rate.  

•

•

•

The effective tax rate of 17.5% in 2016 includes 350 basis points of net tax benefits from permanent foreign exchange
losses and the release of reserves upon the expiration of statutes of limitation and audit settlements, partially offset by
income tax expense related to repatriation of earnings and legal entity realignments associated with the Separation and
changes in estimates associated with prior period uncertain tax positions.

The effective tax rate of 14.4% in 2015 includes 290 basis points of net tax benefits from permanent foreign exchange
losses, releases of valuation allowances related to foreign operating losses and the release of reserves upon the
expiration of statutes of limitation, partially offset by changes in estimates associated with prior period uncertain tax
positions.

The effective tax rate of 21.5% in 2014 includes 250 basis points of tax expense for audit settlements in various
jurisdictions, partially offset by the release of valuation allowances and the release of reserves upon the expiration of
statutes of limitation.

The Company conducts business globally, and files numerous consolidated and separate income tax returns in the United States 
federal, state and foreign jurisdictions.  The countries in which the Company has a material presence that have significantly 
lower statutory tax rates than the United States include China, Denmark, Germany, Singapore, Switzerland and the United 
Kingdom.  The Company’s ability to obtain a tax benefit from lower statutory tax rates outside of the United States depends on 
its levels of taxable income in these foreign countries and the amount of foreign earnings which are indefinitely reinvested in 
those countries.  The Company believes that a change in the statutory tax rate of any individual foreign country would not have 
a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements given the geographic dispersion of the Company’s taxable 
income. 

The Company and its subsidiaries are routinely examined by various domestic and international taxing authorities.  The IRS 
has completed substantially all of the examinations of the Company’s federal income tax returns through 2010 and is currently 
examining certain of the Company’s federal income tax returns for 2011 through 2013.  In addition, the Company has 
subsidiaries in Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Japan, 
Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and various other countries, states and provinces that are currently under 
audit for years ranging from 2004 through 2015. 

Tax authorities in Denmark have raised significant issues related to interest accrued by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.  
On December 10, 2013, the Company received assessments from the Danish tax authority (“SKAT”) totaling approximately 
DKK 1.4 billion (approximately $195 million based on exchange rates as of December 31, 2016) including interest through 
December 31, 2016, imposing withholding tax relating to interest accrued in Denmark on borrowings from certain of the 
Company’s subsidiaries for the years 2004-2009.  The Company is currently in discussions with SKAT and anticipates 
receiving an assessment for years 2010-2012 totaling approximately DKK 814 million (approximately $115 million based on 
exchange rates as of December 31, 2016).  Management believes the positions the Company has taken in Denmark are in 
accordance with the relevant tax laws and is vigorously defending its positions.  The Company appealed these assessments with 
the National Tax Tribunal in 2014 and intends on pursuing this matter through the European Court of Justice should this appeal 

42

be unsuccessful.  The ultimate resolution of this matter is uncertain, could take many years, and could result in a material 
adverse impact to the Company’s financial statements, including its effective tax rate. 

As previously disclosed, German tax authorities had raised issues related to the deductibility and taxability of interest accrued 
by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.  In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company entered into a settlement agreement with 
the German tax authorities to resolve these open matters through 2014.  The Company recorded €49 million (approximately 
$60 million based on exchange rates as of December 31, 2014) of expense for taxes and interest related to this settlement 
during the fourth quarter of 2014. 

The Company’s effective tax rate for 2017 is expected to be approximately 21%.  Any future legislative changes or potential 
tax reform in the United States or other jurisdictions could cause the Company’s effective tax rate to differ from this estimate.  
This expected rate reflects the anticipated discrete income tax benefits from excess tax deductions related to the Company’s 
stock compensation programs, which will be reflected as a reduction in tax expense beginning in 2017 (refer to Note 1 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information related to this change in accounting guidance).

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS 

As further discussed in Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, discontinued operations includes the results of the 
Fortive businesses which were disposed of during the third quarter 2016 as well as the results of the Company’s former 
communications business which was disposed of during the third quarter of 2015.  All periods presented have been restated to 
reflect the Fortive and communications businesses within discontinued operations. 

In 2016, earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, were $400 million and reflected the operating results of 
the Fortive businesses prior to the Separation.  In 2015 and 2014, earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes, 
were approximately $1.6 billion and $960 million, respectively and reflected the operations of both the Fortive and 
communications businesses as well as the gain on the sale of the communications business in 2015.

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Comprehensive income decreased by $617 million in 2016 as compared to 2015, primarily due to the impact of decreases in net 
earnings attributable to discontinued operations, foreign currency translation adjustments resulting from the strengthening of 
the U.S. dollar compared to most major currencies during the year but at a lower rate than in the prior year, and pension and 
postretirement plan benefit adjustments.  The Company recorded a foreign currency translation loss of $517 million for 2016 
compared to a translation loss of $976 million for 2015.  The Company recorded a pension and postretirement plan benefit loss 
of $58 million for 2016 compared to a gain of $81 million for 2015.

Comprehensive income increased by approximately $1.5 billion in 2015 as compared to 2014, primarily due to the impact of 
increases in net earnings (including those attributable to discontinued operations), foreign currency translation adjustments 
resulting from the strengthening of the U.S. dollar compared to most major currencies during the year but at a lower rate than in 
the prior year, and pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustments.  The Company recorded a foreign currency translation 
loss of $976 million for 2015 compared to a translation loss of approximately $1.2 billion for 2014.  Pension and postretirement 
plan benefit adjustments resulted in a gain of $81 million in 2015 compared to a loss of $361 million in 2014.

INFLATION

The effect of inflation on the Company’s revenues and net earnings was not significant in any of the years ended December 31, 
2016, 2015 or 2014.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

The Company is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, equity prices and 
commodity prices as well as credit risk, each of which could impact its financial statements.  The Company generally addresses 
its exposure to these risks through its normal operating and financing activities.  In addition, the Company’s broad-based 
business activities help to reduce the impact that volatility in any particular area or related areas may have on its operating 
profit as a whole.

Interest Rate Risk

The Company manages interest cost using a mixture of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt.  A change in interest rates on long-
term debt impacts the fair value of the Company’s fixed-rate long-term debt but not the Company’s earnings or cash flow 
because the interest on such debt is fixed.  Generally, the fair market value of fixed-rate debt will increase as interest rates fall 
43

and decrease as interest rates rise.  As of December 31, 2016, an increase of 100 basis points in interest rates would have 
decreased the fair value of the Company’s fixed-rate long-term debt (excluding the LYONs, which have not been included in 
this calculation as the value of this convertible debt is primarily derived from the value of its underlying common stock) by 
approximately $335 million.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company’s variable-rate debt obligations consisted primarily of U.S. dollar and euro-based 
commercial paper borrowings (refer to Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding the 
Company’s outstanding commercial paper balances as of December 31, 2016).  As a result, the Company’s primary interest rate 
exposure results from changes in short-term interest rates.  As these shorter duration obligations mature, the Company 
anticipates issuing additional short-term commercial paper obligations to refinance all or part of these borrowings.  In 2016, the 
average annual interest rate associated with outstanding commercial paper borrowings was approximately 10 basis points.  A 
hypothetical increase of this average to 20 basis points would have increased the Company’s annual interest expense by $7 
million.

Currency Exchange Rate Risk

The Company faces transactional exchange rate risk from transactions with customers in countries outside the United States 
and from intercompany transactions between affiliates.  Transactional exchange rate risk arises from the purchase and sale of 
goods and services in currencies other than Danaher’s functional currency or the functional currency of its applicable 
subsidiary.  The Company also faces translational exchange rate risk related to the translation of financial statements of its 
foreign operations into U.S. dollars, Danaher’s functional currency.  Costs incurred and sales recorded by subsidiaries operating 
outside of the United States are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates effective during the respective period.  As a 
result, the Company is exposed to movements in the exchange rates of various currencies against the U.S. dollar.  In particular, 
the Company has more sales in European currencies than it has expenses in those currencies.  Therefore, when European 
currencies strengthen or weaken against the U.S. dollar, operating profits are increased or decreased, respectively.  The effect of 
a change in currency exchange rates on the Company’s net investment in international subsidiaries is reflected in the 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of stockholders’ equity.  A 10% depreciation in major currencies 
relative to the U.S. dollar as of December 31, 2016 would have resulted in a reduction of stockholders’ equity of approximately 
$1.6 billion.

Currency exchange rates negatively impacted 2016 reported sales by 1.0% on a year-over-year basis as the U.S. dollar was, on 
average, stronger against most major currencies during 2016 as compared to exchange rate levels during 2015.  If the exchange 
rates in effect as of December 31, 2016 were to prevail throughout 2017, currency exchange rates would adversely impact 2017 
estimated sales by approximately 2.5% relative to the Company’s performance in 2016.  Additional strengthening of the 
U.S. dollar against other major currencies would further adversely impact the Company’s sales and results of operations on an 
overall basis.  Any weakening of the U.S. dollar against other major currencies would positively impact the Company’s sales 
and results of operations.

The Company has generally accepted the exposure to exchange rate movements without using derivative financial instruments 
to manage this risk, although the Company’s foreign currency-denominated debt partially hedges its net investments in foreign 
operations against adverse movements in exchange rates.  Both positive and negative movements in currency exchange rates 
against the U.S. dollar will therefore continue to affect the reported amount of sales, profit, and assets and liabilities in the 
Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.

Equity Price Risk

The Company’s available-for-sale investment portfolio includes publicly traded equity securities that are sensitive to 
fluctuations in market price.  Changes in equity prices would result in changes in the fair value of the Company’s available-for-
sale investments due to the difference between the current market price and the market price at the date of purchase or issuance 
of the equity securities.  A 10% decline in the value of these equity securities as of December 31, 2016 would have reduced the 
fair value of the Company’s available-for-sale investment portfolio by $17 million.

Commodity Price Risk

For a discussion of risks relating to commodity prices, refer “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

44

Credit Risk

The Company is exposed to potential credit losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to its financial instruments.  
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist of cash and temporary investments, receivables 
from customers and derivatives.  The Company places cash and temporary investments with various high-quality financial 
institutions throughout the world and exposure is limited at any one institution.  Although the Company typically does not 
obtain collateral or other security to secure these obligations, it does regularly monitor the third-party depository institutions 
that hold its cash and cash equivalents.  The Company’s emphasis is primarily on safety and liquidity of principal and 
secondarily on maximizing yield on those funds.

In addition, concentrations of credit risk arising from receivables from customers are limited due to the diversity of the 
Company’s customers.  The Company’s businesses perform credit evaluations of their customers’ financial conditions as 
appropriate and also obtain collateral or other security when appropriate.

The Company enters into derivative transactions infrequently and such transactions are generally insignificant to the 
Company’s financial condition and results of operations.  These transactions are typically entered into with high-quality 
financial institutions and exposure at any one institution is limited.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Management assesses the Company’s liquidity in terms of its ability to generate cash to fund its operating, investing and 
financing activities.  The Company continues to generate substantial cash from operating activities and believes that its 
operating cash flow and other sources of liquidity will be sufficient to allow it to continue investing in existing businesses, 
consummating strategic acquisitions, paying interest and servicing debt and managing its capital structure on a short and long-
term basis.

Following is an overview of the Company’s cash flows and liquidity for the years ended December 31:

Overview of Cash Flows and Liquidity

($ in millions)
Total operating cash flows provided by continuing operations

Cash paid for acquisitions

Payments for additions to property, plant and equipment

Payments for purchases of investments

Proceeds from sales of investments
All other investing activities

Total investing cash used in discontinued operations

Net cash used in investing activities

Proceeds from the issuance of common stock

Payment of dividends

Make-whole premiums to redeem borrowings prior to maturity

Net proceeds from borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less)

Proceeds from borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days)

Repayments of borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days)

All other financing activities

Cash distributions to Fortive Corporation, net
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

2016

2015

2014

3,087.5

$

2,832.2

$

2,671.2

(4,880.1) $
(589.6)
—

264.8

31.7
(69.8)
(5,243.0) $

(14,247.8) $
(512.9)

(2,839.4)
(465.4)

(87.1)

43.0

66.3
(212.5)
(14,951.0) $

—

167.1

16.5
(323.1)
(3,444.3)

164.5
(399.8)
(188.1)
2,218.1

3,240.9
(2,480.6)
(27.0)
(485.3)
2,042.7

$

$

249.0
(354.1)
—

3,511.2

5,682.9
(35.5)
(3.3)
—

$

9,050.2

$

132.9
(227.7)
—

312.2

—
(414.7)
(20.9)
—
(218.2)

$

$

$

$

$

•

Operating cash flows from continuing operations increased $255 million, or approximately 9%, during 2016 as
compared to 2015, due primarily to higher net earnings which also included higher noncash charges for depreciation,
amortization and stock compensation.  Higher levels of investment in working capital during 2016 compared with
2015 partially offset the increase in operating cash flows for the year.

45

•

•

•

•

•

•

Cash paid for acquisitions constituted the most significant use of cash during 2016.  The Company acquired eight
businesses during 2016, including the acquisition of Cepheid, for total consideration (including assumed debt and net
of cash acquired) of approximately $4.9 billion.

On July 2, 2016 Danaher completed the Fortive Separation.  Prior to the Separation, Fortive provided approximately
$3.0 billion of net cash distributions to Danaher.

The Company used a portion of the Fortive Distribution proceeds to repay the $500 million aggregate principal
amount of 2.3% senior unsecured notes that matured in June 2016 and to redeem approximately $1.9 billion in
aggregate principal amount of outstanding indebtedness in August 2016 (consisting of the Redeemed Notes).  Danaher
also paid an aggregate of $188 million in make-whole premiums in connection with the August 2016 redemptions,
plus accrued and unpaid interest.

The Company also generated $2.2 billion of net proceeds from the issuances of commercial paper borrowings, which
were primarily used to fund the Cepheid Acquisition.

The Company distributed cash of $485 million, in addition to approximately $2.0 billion of noncash net assets, to
Fortive in connection with the Separation.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company held $964 million of cash and cash equivalents.

Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities can fluctuate significantly from period-to-period as working capital needs and the timing 
of payments for income taxes, restructuring activities, pension funding and other items impact reported cash flows.

Operating cash flows from continuing operations were approximately $3.1 billion for 2016, an increase of $255 million, or 
approximately 9%, as compared to 2015.  The year-over-year change in operating cash flows from 2015 to 2016 was primarily 
attributable to the following factors:

•

•

•

•

2016 operating cash flows benefited from higher net earnings as compared to 2015 (excluding the 2016 impact of the
gain from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and the loss on early extinguishment of borrowings which
are included in nonoperating income (expense)).  The cash flow impact of the nonoperating gain from the sale of
certain marketable equity securities is reflected in investing activities while the cash flow impact of the nonoperating
loss on the early extinguishment of borrowings is reflected in financing activities, and therefore, these do not
contribute to operating cash flows.

The aggregate of trade accounts receivable, inventories and trade accounts payable used $96 million in operating cash
flows during 2016, compared to providing operating cash flows of $198 million in 2015.  The amount of cash flow
generated from or used by the aggregate of trade accounts receivable, inventories and trade accounts payable depends
upon how effectively the Company manages the cash conversion cycle, which effectively represents the number of
days that elapse from the day it pays for the purchase of raw materials and components to the collection of cash from
its customers and can be significantly impacted by the timing of collections and payments in a period.

The aggregate of prepaid expenses and other assets, deferred income taxes and accrued expenses and other liabilities
used $184 million in operating cash flows during 2016, compared to $84 million used in 2015.  The timing of cash
payments for income taxes and various employee related liabilities, including with respect to recently acquired
companies, drove the majority of this change.

Net earnings from continuing operations for 2016 reflected an increase of $247 million of depreciation and
amortization expense as compared to 2015.  Amortization expense primarily relates to the amortization of intangible
assets acquired in connection with acquisitions.  Depreciation expense relates to both the Company’s manufacturing
and operating facilities as well as instrumentation leased to customers under operating-type lease arrangements.
Depreciation and amortization are noncash expenses that decrease earnings without a corresponding impact to
operating cash flows.

Operating cash flows from continuing operations were approximately $2.8 billion for 2015, an increase of $161 million, or 6% 
as compared to 2014. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in net earnings in 2015 as compared to 2014. 

46

Investing Activities

Cash flows relating to investing activities consist primarily of cash used for acquisitions and capital expenditures, including 
instruments leased to customers, cash used for investments and cash proceeds from divestitures of businesses or assets.

Net cash used in investing activities was approximately $5.2 billion during 2016 compared to approximately $15.0 billion and 
approximately $3.4 billion of net cash used in 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Acquisitions, Divestitures and Sale of Investments

2016 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Sale of Investments

For a discussion of the Company’s 2016 acquisitions, divestitures and the sale of certain marketable equity securities, refer to 
“—Overview.”

2015 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Sale of Investments

On August 31, 2015, Pentagon Merger Sub, Inc., a New York corporation and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company, acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Pall, a New York corporation, for $127.20 per share in 
cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $13.6 billion, net of assumed debt of $417 million and acquired cash of 
approximately $1.2 billion (the “Pall Acquisition”).  Pall is part of the Company’s Life Sciences segment.  In its fiscal year 
ended July 31, 2015, Pall generated consolidated revenues of approximately $2.8 billion.

The Company financed the approximately $13.6 billion acquisition price of Pall with approximately $2.5 billion of available 
cash, approximately $8.1 billion of net proceeds from the issuance and sale of U.S. dollar and euro-denominated commercial 
paper and €2.7 billion  (approximately $3.0 billion based on currency exchange rates as of the date of issuance) of net proceeds 
from the issuance and sale of euro-denominated senior unsecured notes.  Subsequent to the Pall Acquisition, the Company used 
the approximately $2.0 billion of net proceeds from the issuance of U.S. dollar-denominated senior unsecured notes and the 
approximately CHF 755 million ($732 million based on currency exchange rates as of date of issuance) of net proceeds, 
including the related premium, from the issuance and sale of Swiss franc-denominated senior unsecured bonds to repay a 
portion of the commercial paper issued to finance the Pall Acquisition.

In addition to the Pall Acquisition, during 2015 the Company acquired nine businesses for total consideration of approximately 
$670 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these nine businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on 
the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $355 million.

In July 2015, the Company consummated the split-off of the majority of its former communications business to Danaher 
shareholders who elected to exchange Danaher shares for ownership interests in the communications business, and the 
subsequent merger of the communications business with a subsidiary of NetScout.  Danaher shareholders who participated in 
the exchange offer tendered 26 million shares of Danaher common stock (approximately $2.3 billion on the date of tender) and 
received 62.5 million shares of NetScout common stock which represented approximately 60% of the shares of NetScout 
common stock outstanding following the combination. 

The accounting requirements for reporting the disposition of the communications business as a discontinued operation were 
met when the split-off and merger were completed.  Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated financial statements for all 
periods presented reflect this business as discontinued operations.  The Company allocated a portion of the consolidated interest 
expense to discontinued operations based on the ratio of the discontinued business’ net assets to the Company’s consolidated 
net assets.  The Company recorded an aggregate after-tax gain on the disposition of this business of $767 million, or $1.08 per 
diluted share, in its 2015 results in connection with the closing of this transaction representing the value of the 26 million 
shares of Company common stock tendered for the communications business in excess of the carrying value of the business’ 
net assets.  This gain was included in the results of discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2015.  The 
communications business had revenues of $346 million in 2015 prior to the disposition and $760 million in 2014.

During 2015, the Company received cash proceeds of $43 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $12 million.

2014 Acquisitions, Divestitures and Sale of Investments

In December 2014, the Company completed its tender offer for the outstanding shares of common stock of Nobel Biocare and 
acquired substantially all of the Nobel Biocare shares, with the remainder of the Nobel Biocare shares acquired in 2015 
pursuant to a squeeze-out transaction, for an aggregate cash purchase price of approximately CHF 1.9 billion (approximately 

47

$1.9 billion based on exchange rates as of the date the shares of common stock were acquired) including debt assumed and net 
of cash acquired.  Nobel Biocare had revenues of €567 million  in 2013 (approximately $780 million based on exchange rates as 
of December 31, 2013), and is now part of the Company’s Dental segment.  The Company financed the acquisition of Nobel 
Biocare from available cash. 

In addition to the acquisition of Nobel Biocare, during 2014 the Company acquired 10 businesses for total consideration of 
$978 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these 10 businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on 
the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $285 million.

During 2014, the Company received cash proceeds of $167 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $123 million ($77 million after-tax or $0.11 per diluted share).

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures are made primarily for increasing capacity, replacing equipment, supporting new product development, 
improving information technology systems and the manufacture of instruments that are used in operating-type lease 
arrangements that certain of the Company’s businesses enter into with customers.  Capital expenditures totaled $590 million in 
2016, $513 million in 2015 and $465 million in 2014.  The increase in capital spending in 2016 is due to increased investments 
in machinery and equipment, including operating assets at newly acquired businesses such as Pall, and to a lesser extent, 
increases in equipment leased to customers.  The increase in capital spending in 2015 is due to investments in machinery and 
equipment, including operating assets at newly acquired businesses such as Nobel Biocare and Pall, partially offset by year-
over-year differences in the timing of investments in equipment leased to customers.  In 2017, the Company expects capital 
spending to be approximately $750 million, though actual expenditures will ultimately depend on business conditions.

Financing Activities

Cash flows from financing activities consist primarily of cash flows associated with the issuance and repayments of 
commercial paper and other debt, issuances and repurchases of common stock, excess tax benefits from stock-based 
compensation, and payments of cash dividends to shareholders.  Financing activities provided cash of approximately $2.0 
billion during 2016 compared to approximately $9.1 billion of cash provided during 2015.  Cash provided by financing 
activities in 2016 primarily relates to approximately $3.4 billion of net proceeds received from the issuance of the Fortive Debt 
in June 2016 and the net issuance of outstanding borrowings with maturities of 90 days or less, primarily commercial paper 
borrowings, of approximately $2.2 billion, and the issuance of approximately ¥29.9 billion aggregate principal amount 
(approximately $262 million based on the currency exchange rate as of the date of the issuance) of 0.352% senior unsecured 
notes.  These issuances were partially offset by the repayment of the $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.3% senior 
unsecured notes that matured in June 2016, the repayment of approximately $1.9 billion in aggregate principal amount of 
outstanding indebtedness in August 2016 (consisting of the Redeemed Notes), the repayment of the $124 million aggregate 
principal amount of the 4.0% senior unsecured notes due in October 2016  and $485 million of cash distributed to Fortive in 
connection with the Separation. 

Total debt was approximately $12.3 billion and $12.9 billion as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  The Company 
had the ability to incur approximately an additional $1.1 billion of indebtedness in direct borrowings or under outstanding 
commercial paper facilities based on the amounts available under the Company’s $7.0 billion of credit facilities which were not 
being used to backstop outstanding commercial paper balances as of December 31, 2016.  Refer to Note 9 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements for information regarding the Company’s financing activities and indebtedness, including the Company’s 
outstanding debt as of December 31, 2016, and the Company’s commercial paper program and related credit facilities.

Shelf Registration Statement

The Company has filed a “well-known seasoned issuer” shelf registration statement on Form S-3 with the SEC that registers an 
indeterminate amount of debt securities, common stock, preferred stock, warrants, depositary shares, purchase contracts and 
units for future issuance.  The Company utilized this shelf registration statement for the offering and sale of the U.S. dollar and 
euro-denominated senior unsecured notes issued to finance the Pall Acquisition.  The Company expects to use net proceeds 
realized by the Company from future securities sales off this shelf registration statement for general corporate purposes, 
including without limitation repayment or refinancing of debt or other corporate obligations, acquisitions, capital expenditures, 
share repurchases and dividends and working capital.

Stock Repurchase Program

On July 16, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) authorizing 

48

the repurchase of up to 20 million shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately 
negotiated transactions.  There is no expiration date for the Repurchase Program, and the timing and amount of any shares 
repurchased under the program will be determined by the Company’s management based on its evaluation of market conditions 
and other factors.  The Repurchase Program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.  Any repurchased shares will be 
available for use in connection with the Company’s equity compensation plans (or any successor plan) and for other corporate 
purposes.  As of December 31, 2016, 20 million shares remained available for repurchase pursuant to the Repurchase Program.  
The Company expects to fund any future stock repurchases using the Company’s available cash balances or proceeds from the 
issuance of indebtedness.

Except in connection with the disposition of the Company’s communications business to NetScout in 2015, neither the 
Company nor any “affiliated purchaser” repurchased any shares of Company common stock during 2016, 2015 or 2014.  Refer 
to Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of the 26 million shares of Danaher common stock tendered 
to and repurchased by the Company in connection with the disposition of the Company’s communications business to 
NetScout.

Dividends

The Company declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.125 per share that was paid on January 27, 2017 to holders of record 
on December 30, 2016.  Aggregate cash payments for dividends during 2016 were $400 million.  Dividend payments were 
higher in 2016 as compared to 2015 as the Company increased its quarterly dividend rate in the first quarter of 2016 to $0.16 
per share.  Following the Fortive Separation in the third quarter of 2016, the Company reduced its quarterly dividend rate to 
$0.125 per share.

For a description of the dividend of Fortive shares in July 2016, refer to Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Cash and Cash Requirements

As of December 31, 2016, the Company held $964 million of cash and cash equivalents that were invested in highly liquid 
investment-grade debt instruments with a maturity of 90 days or less with an approximate weighted average annual interest rate 
of 0.10%.  Of this amount, $316 million was held within the United States and $648 million was held outside of the United 
States.  The Company will continue to have cash requirements to support working capital needs, capital expenditures and 
acquisitions, pay interest and service debt, pay taxes and any related interest or penalties, fund its restructuring activities and 
pension plans as required, pay dividends to shareholders, repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock and support other 
business needs.  The Company generally intends to use available cash and internally generated funds to meet these cash 
requirements, but in the event that additional liquidity is required, particularly in connection with acquisitions, the Company 
may also borrow under its commercial paper programs or credit facilities, enter into new credit facilities and either borrow 
directly thereunder or use such credit facilities to backstop additional borrowing capacity under its commercial paper programs 
and/or access the capital markets.  The Company also may from time to time access the capital markets to take advantage of 
favorable interest rate environments or other market conditions.

While repatriation of some cash held outside the United States may be restricted by local laws, most of the Company’s foreign 
cash balances could be repatriated to the United States but, under current law, would be subject to U.S. federal income taxes, 
less applicable foreign tax credits.  For most of its foreign subsidiaries, the Company makes an election regarding the amount 
of earnings intended for indefinite reinvestment, with the balance available to be repatriated to the United States.  The 
Company has recorded a deferred tax liability for the funds that are available to be repatriated to the United States.  No 
provisions for U.S. income taxes have been made with respect to earnings that are planned to be reinvested indefinitely outside 
the United States, and the amount of U.S. income taxes that may be applicable to such earnings is not readily determinable 
given the various tax planning alternatives the Company could employ if it repatriated these earnings.  The cash that the 
Company’s foreign subsidiaries hold for indefinite reinvestment is generally used to finance foreign operations and 
investments, including acquisitions.  As of December 31, 2016, the total amount of earnings planned to be reinvested 
indefinitely and the basis difference in investments outside of the United States for which deferred taxes have not been 
provided in aggregate was approximately $23.0 billion.  As of December 31, 2016, management believes that it has sufficient 
liquidity to satisfy its cash needs, including its cash needs in the United States.

During 2016, the Company contributed $58 million to its U.S. defined benefit pension plans and $44 million to its non-U.S. 
defined benefit pension plans.  During 2017, the Company’s cash contribution requirements for its U.S. and its non-U.S. 
defined benefit pension plans are expected to be approximately $35 million and $40 million, respectively.  The ultimate 
amounts to be contributed depend upon, among other things, legal requirements, underlying asset returns, the plan’s funded 
status, the anticipated tax deductibility of the contribution, local practices, market conditions, interest rates and other factors.

49

Contractual Obligations

The following table sets forth, by period due or year of expected expiration, as applicable, a summary of the Company’s 
contractual obligations as of December 31, 2016 under (1) debt obligations, (2) leases, (3) purchase obligations and (4) other 
long-term liabilities reflected on the Company’s balance sheet under GAAP.  The amounts presented in the “Other long-term 
liabilities” line in the table below include $940 million of noncurrent gross unrecognized tax benefits and related interest (and 
do not include $172 million of current gross unrecognized tax benefits which are included in the “Accrued expenses and other 
liabilities” line on the Consolidated Balance Sheet).  However, the timing of the long-term portion of these liabilities is 
uncertain, and therefore, they have been included in the “More Than 5 Years” column in the table below.  Refer to Note 12 to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information on unrecognized tax benefits.  Certain of the Company’s 
acquisitions also involve the potential payment of contingent consideration.  The table below does not reflect any such 
obligations, as the timing and amounts of any such payments are uncertain.  Refer to “—Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” for 
a discussion of other contractual obligations that are not reflected in the table below.

($ in millions)
Debt and leases:

Debt obligations (a)(b)
Capital lease obligations (b)

Total debt

Interest payments on debt and capital lease 
obligations (c)
Operating lease obligations (d)
Other:
Purchase obligations (e)
Other long-term liabilities reflected on the 
Company’s balance sheet under GAAP (f)
Total

Total

Less Than
One Year

1-3 Years

4-5 Years

More Than
5 Years

$

12,250.5

$

2,591.5

$

1,120.3

$

5,221.3

$

3,317.4

18.5

12,269.0

1,237.6

741.0

3.3

2,594.8

143.8

187.0

543.5

492.3

5,670.3

—

3.3

1,123.6

0.9

5,222.2

11.0

3,328.4

241.2

267.1

40.3

729.6

183.5

149.0

6.6

660.8

669.1

137.9

4.3

4,279.9

8,419.6

$

20,461.4

$

3,417.9

$

2,401.8

$

6,222.1

$

(a)  As described in Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(b) Amounts do not include interest payments.  Interest on debt and capital lease obligations is reflected in a separate line in the table.
(c)  Interest payments on debt are projected for future periods using the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2016.  Certain of these

projected interest payments may differ in the future based on changes in market interest rates.

(d) As described in Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, certain leases require the Company to pay real estate taxes, insurance,
maintenance and other operating expenses associated with the leased premises.  These future costs are not included in the schedule above.

(e)  Consist of agreements to purchase goods or services that are enforceable and legally binding on the Company and that specify all

significant terms, including fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased, fixed, minimum or variable price provisions and the approximate
timing of the transaction.

(f)  Primarily consist of obligations under product service and warranty policies and allowances, performance and operating cost guarantees,
estimated environmental remediation costs, self-insurance and litigation claims, postretirement benefits, pension obligations, deferred tax
liabilities and deferred compensation obligations.  The timing of cash flows associated with these obligations is based upon management’s
estimates over the terms of these arrangements and is largely based upon historical experience.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Guarantees

The following table sets forth, by period due or year of expected expiration, as applicable, a summary of guarantees of the 
Company as of December 31, 2016.

($ in millions)
Guarantees

Amount of Commitment Expiration per Period

Total

Less Than
One Year

1-3 Years

4-5 Years

More Than
5 Years

$

799.0

$

707.2

$

52.8

$

16.9

$

22.1

Guarantees consist primarily of outstanding standby letters of credit, bank guarantees and performance and bid bonds.  These 
guarantees have been provided in connection with certain arrangements with vendors, customers, insurance providers, 

50

financing counterparties and governmental entities to secure the Company’s obligations and/or performance requirements 
related to specific transactions.

Other Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has from time to time divested certain of its businesses and assets.  In connection with these divestitures, the 
Company often provides representations, warranties and/or indemnities to cover various risks and unknown liabilities, such as 
claims for damages arising out of the use of products or relating to intellectual property matters, commercial disputes, 
environmental matters or tax matters.  In particular, in connection with the 2016 Fortive Separation and the 2015 split-off of the 
Company’s communications business, Danaher entered into separation and distribution and related agreements pursuant to 
which Danaher agreed to indemnify the other parties against certain damages and expenses that might occur in the future.  
These indemnification obligations cover a variety of liabilities, including, but not limited to, employee, tax and environmental 
matters.  The Company has not included any such items in the contractual obligations table above because they relate to 
unknown conditions and the Company cannot estimate the potential liabilities from such matters, but the Company does not 
believe it is reasonably possible that any such liability will have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.  In 
addition, as a result of these divestitures, as well as restructuring activities, certain properties leased by the Company have been 
sublet to third-parties.  In the event any of these third-parties vacate any of these premises, the Company would be legally 
obligated under master lease arrangements.  The Company believes that the financial risk of default by such sub-lessors is 
individually and in the aggregate not material to the Company’s financial statements.

In the normal course of business, the Company periodically enters into agreements that require it to indemnify customers, 
suppliers or other business partners for specific risks, such as claims for injury or property damage arising out of the 
Company’s products or services or claims alleging that Company products or services infringe third-party intellectual property.  
The Company has not included any such indemnification provisions in the contractual obligations table above.  Historically, the 
Company has not experienced significant losses on these types of indemnification obligations.

The Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation requires it to indemnify to the full extent authorized or permitted by law 
any person made, or threatened to be made a party to any action or proceeding by reason of his or her service as a director or 
officer of the Company, or by reason of serving at the request of the Company as a director or officer of any other entity, 
subject to limited exceptions.  Danaher’s Amended and Restated By-laws provide for similar indemnification rights.  In 
addition, Danaher has executed with each director and executive officer of Danaher Corporation an indemnification agreement 
which provides for substantially similar indemnification rights and under which Danaher has agreed to pay expenses in advance 
of the final disposition of any such indemnifiable proceeding.  While the Company maintains insurance for this type of liability, 
a significant deductible applies to this coverage and any such liability could exceed the amount of the insurance coverage.

Legal Proceedings

Refer to Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding legal proceedings and contingencies, and 
for a discussion of risks related to legal proceedings and contingencies, refer to “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES

Management’s discussion and analysis of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations is based upon the 
Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally 
accepted in the United States.  The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and 
judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent 
assets and liabilities.  The Company bases these estimates and judgments on historical experience, the current economic 
environment and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Actual results may 
differ materially from these estimates and judgments.

The Company believes the following accounting estimates are most critical to an understanding of its financial statements.  
Estimates are considered to be critical if they meet both of the following criteria: (1) the estimate requires assumptions about 
material matters that are uncertain at the time the estimate is made, and (2) material changes in the estimate are reasonably 
likely from period-to-period.  For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting estimates, refer to Note 
1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Acquired Intangibles—The Company’s business acquisitions typically result in the recognition of goodwill, in-process research 
and development and other intangible assets, which affect the amount of future period amortization expense and possible 
impairment charges that the Company may incur.  Refer to Notes 1, 2 and 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a 
description of the Company’s policies relating to goodwill, acquired intangibles and acquisitions.

51

In performing its goodwill impairment testing, the Company estimates the fair value of its reporting units primarily using a 
market-based approach.  The Company estimates fair value based on multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation 
and amortization (“EBITDA”) determined by current trading market multiples of earnings for companies operating in 
businesses similar to each of the Company’s reporting units, in addition to recent market available sale transactions of 
comparable businesses.  In evaluating the estimates derived by the market-based approach, management makes judgments 
about the relevance and reliability of the multiples by considering factors unique to its reporting units, including operating 
results, business plans, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows, and transactions and marketplace data as well as 
judgments about the comparability of the market proxies selected.  In certain circumstances the Company also estimates fair 
value utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis (i.e., an income approach) in order to validate the results of the market 
approach.  The discounted cash flow model requires judgmental assumptions about projected revenue growth, future operating 
margins, discount rates and terminal values.  There are inherent uncertainties related to these assumptions and management’s 
judgment in applying them to the analysis of goodwill impairment. 

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had eight reporting units for goodwill impairment testing.  Reporting units resulting 
from recent acquisitions generally present the highest risk of impairment.  Management believes the impairment risk associated 
with these reporting units decreases as these businesses are integrated into the Company and better positioned for potential 
future earnings growth.  As of the date of the 2016 annual impairment test, the carrying value of the goodwill included in each 
individual reporting unit ranged from $503 million to approximately $11.7 billion.  The Company’s annual goodwill 
impairment analysis in 2016 indicated that in all instances, the fair values of the Company’s reporting units exceeded their 
carrying values and consequently did not result in an impairment charge.  The excess of the estimated fair value over carrying 
value (expressed as a percentage of carrying value for the respective reporting unit) for each of the Company’s reporting units 
as of the annual testing date ranged from approximately 70% to approximately 380%.  In order to evaluate the sensitivity of the 
fair value calculations used in the goodwill impairment test, the Company applied a hypothetical 10% decrease to the fair 
values of each reporting unit and compared those hypothetical values to the reporting unit carrying values.  Based on this 
hypothetical 10% decrease, the excess of the estimated fair value over carrying value (expressed as a percentage of carrying 
value for the respective reporting unit) for each of the Company’s reporting units ranged from approximately 50% to 
approximately 330%.

The Company reviews identified intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that 
the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable.  The Company also tests intangible assets with indefinite lives at least 
annually for impairment.  Determining whether an impairment loss occurred requires a comparison of the carrying amount to 
the sum of undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.  These analyses require management to make 
judgments and estimates about future revenues, expenses, market conditions and discount rates related to these assets.

If actual results are not consistent with management’s estimates and assumptions, goodwill and other intangible assets may be 
overstated and a charge would need to be taken against net earnings which would adversely affect the Company’s financial 
statements.

Contingent Liabilities—As discussed in Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company is, from time to time, 
subject to a variety of litigation and similar contingent liabilities incidental to its business (or the business operations of 
previously owned entities).  The Company recognizes a liability for any contingency that is known or probable of occurrence 
and reasonably estimable.  These assessments require judgments concerning matters such as litigation developments and 
outcomes, the anticipated outcome of negotiations, the number of future claims and the cost of both pending and future claims.  
In addition, because most contingencies are resolved over long periods of time, liabilities may change in the future due to 
various factors, including those discussed in Note 16 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  If the reserves established by 
the Company with respect to these contingent liabilities are inadequate, the Company would be required to incur an expense 
equal to the amount of the loss incurred in excess of the reserves, which would adversely affect the Company’s financial 
statements.

Revenue Recognition—The Company derives revenues from the sale of products and services.  Refer to Note 1 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the Company’s revenue recognition policies.  

Although most of the Company’s sales agreements contain standard terms and conditions, certain agreements contain multiple 
elements or nonstandard terms and conditions.  As a result, judgment is sometimes required to determine the appropriate 
accounting, including whether the deliverables specified in these agreements should be treated as separate units of accounting 
for revenue recognition purposes, and, if so, how the consideration should be allocated among the elements and when to 
recognize revenue for each element.  The Company allocates revenue to each element in the contractual arrangement based on 
the selling price hierarchy that, in some instances, may require the Company to estimate the selling price of certain deliverables 
that are not sold separately or where third-party evidence of pricing is not observable.  The Company’s estimate of selling price 
impacts the amount and timing of revenue recognized in multiple element arrangements.  The Company also enters into lease 

52

arrangements with customers, which requires the Company to determine whether the arrangements are operating or sales-type 
leases.  Certain of the Company’s lease contracts are customized for larger customers and often result in complex terms and 
conditions that typically require significant judgment in applying the lease accounting criteria.

If the Company’s judgments regarding revenue recognition prove incorrect, the Company’s reported revenues in particular 
periods may be adversely affected. 

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits—For a description of the Company’s pension and other postretirement benefit 
accounting practices, refer to Notes 10 and 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  Calculations of the amount of pension 
and other postretirement benefit costs and obligations depend on the assumptions used in the actuarial valuations, including 
assumptions regarding discount rates, expected return on plan assets, rates of salary increases, health care cost trend rates, 
mortality rates, and other factors.  If the assumptions used in calculating pension and other postretirement benefits costs and 
obligations are incorrect or if the factors underlying the assumptions change (as a result of differences in actual experience, 
changes in key economic indicators or other factors) the Company’s financial statements could be materially affected.  A 50 
basis point reduction in the discount rates used for the plans would have increased the U.S. net obligation by $141 million ($88 
million on an after-tax basis) and the non-U.S. net obligation by $140 million ($102 million on an after-tax basis) from the 
amounts recorded in the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2016.  A 50 basis point increase in the discount 
rates used for the plans would have decreased the U.S. net obligation by $131 million ($82 million on an after-tax basis) and 
the non-U.S. net obligation by $140 million ($102 million on an after-tax basis) from the amounts recorded in the Consolidated 
Financial Statements as of December 31, 2016.

For 2016, the estimated long-term rate of return for the U.S. plans are 7.0%, and the Company intends to continue to use an 
assumption of 7.0% for 2017.  This expected rate of return reflects the asset allocation of the plan and the expected long-term 
returns on equity and debt investments included in plan assets.  The U.S. plan targets to invest between 60% and 70% of its 
assets in equity portfolios which are invested in funds that are expected to mirror broad market returns for equity securities or 
in assets with characteristics similar to equity investments.  The balance of the asset portfolio is generally invested in bond 
funds.  The Company’s non-U.S. plan assets consist of various insurance contracts, equity and debt securities as determined by 
the administrator of each plan.  The estimated long-term rate of return for the non-U.S. plans was determined on a plan by plan 
basis based on the nature of the plan assets and ranged from 1.1% to 5.8%.  If the expected long-term rate of return on plan 
assets for 2016 was reduced by 50 basis points, pension expense for the U.S. and non-U.S. plans for 2016 would have increased 
$9 million ($6 million on an after-tax basis) and $5 million ($4 million on an after-tax basis), respectively.

For a discussion of the Company’s 2016 and anticipated 2017 defined benefit pension plan contributions, refer to “—Liquidity 
and Capital Resources – Cash and Cash Requirements”.

Income Taxes—For a description of the Company’s income tax accounting policies, refer to Notes 1 and 12 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements.  The Company establishes valuation allowances for its deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that 
some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized which requires management to make judgments and estimates 
regarding: (1) the timing and amount of the reversal of taxable temporary differences, (2) expected future taxable income, and 
(3) the impact of tax planning strategies.  Future changes to tax rates would also impact the amounts of deferred tax assets and
liabilities and could have an adverse impact on the Company’s financial statements.

The Company provides for unrecognized tax benefits when, based upon the technical merits, it is “more likely than not” that an 
uncertain tax position will not be sustained upon examination.  Judgment is required in evaluating tax positions and 
determining income tax provisions.  The Company re-evaluates the technical merits of its tax positions and may recognize an 
uncertain tax benefit in certain circumstances, including when: (1) a tax audit is completed; (2) applicable tax laws change, 
including a tax case ruling or legislative guidance; or (3) the applicable statute of limitations expires.

In addition, certain of the Company’s tax returns are currently under review by tax authorities including in Denmark (refer to 
“—Results of Operations – Income Taxes” and Note 12 to the Consolidated Financial Statements).  Management believes the 
positions taken in these returns are in accordance with the relevant tax laws.  However, the outcome of these audits is uncertain 
and could result in the Company being required to record charges for prior year tax obligations which could have a material 
adverse impact to the Company’s financial statements, including its effective tax rate.

An increase in the Company’s nominal tax rate of 1.0% would have resulted in an additional income tax provision for 
continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 of $26 million.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

For a discussion of the new accounting standards impacting the Company, refer to Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements.

53

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

The information required by this item is included under “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial 
Condition and Results of Operations.”

54

ITEM 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Report of Management on Danaher Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 

The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial 
reporting for the Company.  Internal control over financial reporting is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) promulgated 
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

The Company’s management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2016.  In making this assessment, the Company’s management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of 
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework” (2013 
framework).  Based on this assessment, management concluded that, as of December 31, 2016, the Company’s internal control 
over financial reporting is effective.

The Company completed the acquisition of Cepheid on November 4, 2016.  Since the Company has not yet fully incorporated 
the internal controls and procedures of Cepheid into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, management 
excluded Cepheid from its assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2016.  Cepheid constituted approximately 10% of the Company’s total assets as of December 31, 2016 and 
approximately 1% of the Company’s total revenues for the year then ended.

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm has issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting.  This report dated February 21, 2017 appears on page 56 of this Form 10-K.

55

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Danaher Corporation

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We have audited Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, 
based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations 
of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria).  Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries’ management is 
responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of 
internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Report of Management on Danaher Corporation’s 
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the company’s internal control over 
financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal 
control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of 
internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and 
operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered 
necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the 
reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles.  A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures 
that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and 
dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit 
preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and 
expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the 
company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or 
disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, 
projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate 
because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

As indicated in the accompanying Report of Management on Danaher Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, 
management’s assessment of and conclusion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting did not include the 
internal controls of Cepheid, which is included in the 2016 consolidated financial statements of Danaher Corporation and 
subsidiaries and constituted approximately 10% of total assets as of December 31, 2016 and approximately 1% of the revenues 
for the year then ended.  Our audit of internal control over financial reporting of Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries also did 
not include an evaluation of the internal control over financial reporting of Cepheid.  In our opinion, Danaher Corporation and 
subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016 
based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
the consolidated balance sheets of Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related 
consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in 
the period ended December 31, 2016 of Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries and our report dated February 21, 2017, 
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, Virginia
February 21, 2017

56

The Board of Directors and Stockholders of Danaher Corporation

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 
2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, stockholders’ equity and cash 
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016.  Our audits also included the financial statement 
schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a).  These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s 
management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). 
Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts 
and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant 
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits 
provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial 
position of Danaher Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the consolidated results of their 
operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with U.S. 
generally accepted accounting principles.  Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in 
relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth 
therein.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
Danaher Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in 
Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
(2013 framework), and our report dated February 21, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, Virginia
February 21, 2017

57

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
($ and shares in millions, except per share amount)

ASSETS
Current assets:

Cash and equivalents

Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $102.4 and $88.3,
respectively

Inventories

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

Current assets, discontinued operations

Total current assets
Property, plant and equipment, net

Other assets

Goodwill
Other intangible assets, net

Other assets, discontinued operations

Total assets
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:

Notes payable and current portion of long-term debt

Trade accounts payable

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Current liabilities, discontinued operations

Total current liabilities
Other long-term liabilities

Long-term debt

Long-term liabilities, discontinued operations

Stockholders’ equity:

Common stock - $0.01 par value, 2.0 billion shares authorized; 807.7 and 801.6 issued;
692.2 and 686.8 outstanding, respectively

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

Total Danaher stockholders’ equity

Noncontrolling interests

Total stockholders’ equity
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$

$

As of December 31

2016

2015

$

963.7

$

790.8

3,186.1

1,709.4

805.9

—

6,665.1

2,354.0

631.3

23,826.9

11,818.0
—

2,985.1

1,573.1

889.5

1,598.2

7,836.7

2,302.7

845.3

21,014.9

10,545.3

5,677.3

45,295.3

$

48,222.2

2,594.8

$

1,485.0

2,794.2

—

6,874.0

5,670.3

9,674.2

—

8.1

5,312.9

20,703.5
(3,021.7)
23,002.8

74.0

23,076.8

845.2

1,391.9

2,609.4

1,323.9

6,170.4

5,750.0

12,025.2

512.6

8.0

4,981.2

21,012.3
(2,311.2)
23,690.3

73.7

23,764.0

48,222.2

$

45,295.3

$

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

58

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
($ and shares in millions, except per share amounts)

Sales

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Operating costs:

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Research and development expenses

Operating profit

Nonoperating income (expense):

Other income

Loss on early extinguishment of borrowings

Interest expense
Interest income

Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes

Income taxes

Net earnings from continuing operations

Earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

Net earnings

Net earnings per share from continuing operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per share from discontinued operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per share:

Basic

Diluted

Average common stock and common equivalent shares outstanding:

Basic

Diluted

* Net earnings per share amount does not add due to rounding.

Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

$

16,882.4
(7,547.8)
9,334.6

$

14,433.7
(6,662.6)
7,771.1

12,866.9
(6,017.4)
6,849.5

(5,608.6)
(975.1)
2,750.9

223.4
(178.8)
(184.4)
0.2

2,611.3
(457.9)
2,153.4

400.3

2,553.7

3.12

3.08

0.58

0.57

$

$

$

$

$

3.69 * $

3.65

$

691.2

699.8

(4,747.5)
(861.4)
2,162.2

12.4

—
(139.8)
4.6

2,039.4
(292.7)
1,746.7

1,610.7

3,357.4

2.50

2.47

2.31

2.27

4.81

4.74

698.1

708.5

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

(4,035.1)
(769.4)
2,045.0

122.6

—
(94.7)
13.3

2,086.2
(447.5)
1,638.7

959.7

2,598.4

2.33

2.29

1.37

1.34

3.70

3.63

702.2

716.1

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

59

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
($ in millions)

Net earnings
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes:

Foreign currency translation adjustments
Pension and postretirement plan benefit adjustments
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes
Comprehensive income

Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

2,553.7

$

3,357.4

$

2,598.4

(517.3)
(58.2)
(114.8)
(690.3)
1,863.4

$

(975.6)
80.5
17.6
(877.5)
2,479.9

$

(1,235.0)
(361.1)
(52.1)
(1,648.2)
950.2

$

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

60

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 ($ and shares in millions)

Balance, January 1, 2014
Net earnings for the year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Dividends declared

Common stock-based award activity

Common stock issued in connection with
LYONs’ conversions

Change in noncontrolling interests

Balance, December 31, 2014
Net earnings for the year

Other comprehensive income (loss)
Dividends declared

Common stock-based award activity

Common stock issued in connection with
LYONs’ conversions

Shares redeemed through the distribution of
the communications business (26.0 shares
held as Treasury shares)

Change in noncontrolling interests

Balance, December 31, 2015
Net earnings for the year

Other comprehensive income (loss)

Dividends declared

Common stock-based award activity

Common stock issued in connection with
LYONs’ conversions

Distribution of Fortive Corporation

Change in noncontrolling interests

Common Stock

Shares

Amount

Additional
Paid-
in Capital

Retained
Earnings

785.7

$

7.9

$ 4,157.6

$ 18,005.3

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
214.5
$

Noncontrolling
Interests

$

66.1

—

—

—

5.2

1.6

—

792.5

—

—
—

7.8

1.3

—

—

801.6

—

—

—

5.8

0.3

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

7.9

—

—
—

0.1

—

—

—

8.0

—

—

—

0.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

258.2

65.1

—

2,598.4

—
(280.7)
—

—

—

4,480.9

20,323.0

—

—
—

443.9

56.4

3,357.4

—
(376.4)
—

—

—

—

(2,291.7)
—

4,981.2

21,012.3

—

—

—

322.6

9.1

—

—

2,553.7

—
(393.6)
—

—
(2,468.9)
—

—
(1,648.2)
—

—

—

—
(1,433.7)
—
(877.5)
—

—

—

—

—
(2,311.2)
—
(690.3)
—

—

—
(20.2)
—
(3,021.7) $

—

—

—

—

—

5.6

71.7

—

—
—

—

—

—

2.0

73.7

—

—

—

—

—

—

0.3

74.0

Balance, December 31, 2016

807.7

$

8.1

$ 5,312.9

$ 20,703.5

$

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

61

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
($ and shares in millions)

Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net earnings

Less: earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

Net earnings from continuing operations
Noncash items:
Depreciation
Amortization
Stock-based compensation expense
Pretax loss on early extinguishment of borrowings
Pretax gain on sales of investments

Change in deferred income taxes
Change in trade accounts receivable, net
Change in inventories
Change in trade accounts payable
Change in prepaid expenses and other assets
Change in accrued expenses and other liabilities
Total operating cash provided by continuing operations

Total operating cash provided by discontinued operations

Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:

Cash paid for acquisitions
Payments for additions to property, plant and equipment
Payments for purchases of investments
Proceeds from sales of investments
All other investing activities

Total investing cash used in continuing operations

Total investing cash used in discontinued operations

Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:

Proceeds from the issuance of common stock
Payment of dividends
Make-whole premiums to redeem borrowings prior to maturity
Net proceeds from borrowings (maturities of 90 days or less)
Proceeds from borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days)
Repayments of borrowings (maturities longer than 90 days)
All other financing activities

Total financing cash provided by (used in) continuing operations

Cash distributions to Fortive Corporation, net
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents
Net change in cash and equivalents
Beginning balance of cash and equivalents
Ending balance of cash and equivalents

Supplemental disclosure:

Shares redeemed through the distribution of the communications business (26.0
shares held as Treasury shares)
Distribution of noncash net assets to Fortive Corporation

$

$

2,553.7
400.3
2,153.4

$

3,357.4
1,610.7
1,746.7

545.0
583.1
129.8
178.8
(223.4)
(383.9)
(183.1)
9.4
78.1
(62.4)
262.7
3,087.5
434.3
3,521.8

(4,880.1)
(589.6)
—
264.8
31.7
(5,173.2)
(69.8)
(5,243.0)

164.5
(399.8)
(188.1)
2,218.1
3,240.9
(2,480.6)
(27.0)
2,528.0
(485.3)
2,042.7
(148.6)
172.9
790.8
963.7

$

484.0
396.8
103.8
—
(12.4)
(184.2)
0.8
146.5
50.3
(68.9)
168.8
2,832.2
969.6
3,801.8

(14,247.8)
(512.9)
(87.1)
43.0
66.3
(14,738.5)
(212.5)
(14,951.0)

249.0
(354.1)
—
3,511.2
5,682.9
(35.5)
(3.3)
9,050.2
—
9,050.2
(115.8)
(2,214.8)
3,005.6
790.8

— $

(1,983.6)

2,291.7
—

$

$

$

$

2,598.4
959.7
1,638.7

448.9
269.2
84.7
—
(122.6)
201.9
(42.7)
68.8
79.7
(144.8)
189.4
2,671.2
1,087.2
3,758.4

(2,839.4)
(465.4)
—
167.1
16.5
(3,121.2)
(323.1)
(3,444.3)

132.9
(227.7)
—
312.2
—
(414.7)
(20.9)
(218.2)
—
(218.2)
(205.5)
(109.6)
3,115.2
3,005.6

—
—

See the accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
62

DANAHER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1.  BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Business—Danaher Corporation (“Danaher” or the “Company”) designs, manufactures and markets professional, medical, 
industrial and commercial products and services, which are typically characterized by strong brand names, innovative 
technology and major market positions.  The Company operates in four business segments: Life Sciences; Diagnostics; Dental; 
and Environmental & Applied Solutions.

The Company’s Life Sciences segment offers a broad range of research tools that scientists use to study the basic building 
blocks of life, including genes, proteins, metabolites and cells, in order to understand the causes of disease, identify new 
therapies and test new drugs and vaccines.  The segment, through its Pall Corporation (“Pall”) business, is also a leading 
provider of filtration, separation and purification technologies to the biopharmaceutical, food and beverage, medical, aerospace, 
microelectronics and general industrial sectors.

The Company’s Diagnostics segment offers analytical instruments, reagents, consumables, software and services that hospitals, 
physicians’ offices, reference laboratories and other critical care settings use to diagnose disease and make treatment decisions.

The Company’s Dental segment provides products that are used to diagnose, treat and prevent disease and ailments of the teeth, 
gums and supporting bone, as well as to improve the aesthetics of the human smile.  The Company is a leading worldwide 
provider of a broad range of dental consumables, equipment and services, and is dedicated to driving technological innovations 
that help dental professionals improve clinical outcomes and enhance productivity.

The Company’s Environmental & Applied Solutions segment products and services help protect important resources and keep 
global food and water supplies safe.  The Company’s water quality business provides instrumentation, services and disinfection 
systems to help analyze, treat and manage the quality of ultra-pure, potable, waste, ground, source and ocean water in 
residential, commercial, industrial and natural resource applications.  The Company’s product identification business provides 
equipment, consumables, software and services for various printing, marking, coding, traceability, packaging, design and color 
management applications on consumer, pharmaceutical and industrial products.

Refer to Notes 2 and 3 for a discussion of significant acquisitions and discontinued operations.

Accounting Principles—The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles 
generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”).  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company 
and its subsidiaries.  All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation.  The consolidated 
financial statements also reflect the impact of noncontrolling interests.  Noncontrolling interests do not have a significant 
impact on the Company’s consolidated results of operations, therefore earnings and earnings per share attributable to 
noncontrolling interests are not presented separately in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  Earnings 
attributable to noncontrolling interests have been reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses and were 
insignificant in all periods presented.

Use of Estimates—The preparation of these financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in 
the United States requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, 
revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  The Company bases these estimates on 
historical experience, the current economic environment and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable 
under the circumstances.  However, uncertainties associated with these estimates exist and actual results may differ materially 
from these estimates.

Cash and Equivalents—The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date 
of purchase to be cash equivalents.

Accounts Receivable and Allowances for Doubtful Accounts—All trade accounts, contract and finance receivables are reported 
on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets adjusted for any write-offs and net of allowances for doubtful accounts.  
The allowances for doubtful accounts represent management’s best estimate of the credit losses expected from the Company’s 
trade accounts, contract and finance receivable portfolios.  Determination of the allowances requires management to exercise 
judgment about the timing, frequency and severity of credit losses that could materially affect the provision for credit losses 
and, therefore, net earnings.  The Company regularly performs detailed reviews of its portfolios to determine if an impairment 
has occurred and evaluates the collectability of receivables based on a combination of various financial and qualitative factors 
that may affect customers’ ability to pay, including customers’ financial condition, collateral, debt-servicing ability, past 
payment experience and credit bureau information.  In circumstances where the Company is aware of a specific customer’s 

63

inability to meet its financial obligations, a specific reserve is recorded against amounts due to reduce the recognized receivable 
to the amount reasonably expected to be collected.  Additions to the allowances for doubtful accounts are charged to current 
period earnings, amounts determined to be uncollectible are charged directly against the allowances, while amounts recovered 
on previously written-off accounts increase the allowances.  If the financial condition of the Company’s customers were to 
deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional reserves would be required.  The Company 
does not believe that accounts receivable represent significant concentrations of credit risk because of the diversified portfolio 
of individual customers and geographical areas.  The Company recorded $33 million, $25 million and $15 million of expense 
associated with doubtful accounts for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Included in the Company’s trade accounts receivable and other long-term assets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are 
$140 million and $139 million of net aggregate financing receivables, respectively.  All financing receivables are evaluated 
collectively for impairment due to the homogeneous nature of the portfolio.

Inventory Valuation—Inventories include the costs of material, labor and overhead.  Domestic inventories are stated at the 
lower of cost or market primarily using the first-in, first-out (“FIFO”) method with certain businesses applying the last-in, first-
out method (“LIFO”) to value inventory.  Inventories held outside the United States are stated at the lower of cost or market 
primarily using the FIFO method.

Property, Plant and Equipment—Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost.  The provision for depreciation has been 
computed principally by the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the depreciable assets as follows:

Category
Buildings

Useful Life
30 years

Leased assets and leasehold improvements

Amortized over the lesser of the economic life of the asset or
the term of the lease

Machinery and equipment

Customer-leased instruments

3 – 10 years

5 – 7 years

Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and, when appropriate, changes to estimates are made prospectively.

Investments—Investments over which the Company has a significant influence but not a controlling interest, are accounted for 
using the equity method of accounting.  Equity investments are recorded at the amount of the Company’s initial investment and 
adjusted each period for the Company’s share of the investee’s income or loss and dividends paid.  All equity investments are 
periodically reviewed to determine if declines in fair value below cost basis are other-than-temporary.  Significant and 
sustained decreases in quoted market prices or a series of historic and projected operating losses by investees are strong 
indicators of other-than-temporary declines.  If the decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an 
impairment loss is recorded and the investment is written down to a new carrying value.

Other Assets—Other assets principally include noncurrent financing receivables, noncurrent deferred tax assets and other 
investments.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments—The Company’s financial instruments consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, 
trade accounts receivable, available-for-sale securities, nonqualified deferred compensation plans, obligations under trade 
accounts payable and short and long-term debt.  Due to their short-term nature, the carrying values for cash and cash 
equivalents, trade accounts receivable and trade accounts payable approximate fair value.  Refer to Note 7 for the fair values of 
the Company’s available-for-sale securities and other obligations.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets—Goodwill and other intangible assets result from the Company’s acquisition of existing 
businesses.  In accordance with accounting standards related to business combinations, goodwill is not amortized, however, 
certain definite-lived identifiable intangible assets, primarily customer relationships and acquired technology, are amortized 
over their estimated useful lives.  Intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized.  In-process research and 
development (“IPR&D”) is initially capitalized at fair value and when the IPR&D project is complete, the asset is considered a 
finite-lived intangible asset and amortized over its estimated useful life.  If an IPR&D project is abandoned, an impairment loss 
equal to the value of the intangible asset is recorded in the period of abandonment.  The Company reviews identified intangible 
assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be 
recoverable.  The Company also tests intangible assets with indefinite lives at least annually for impairment.  Refer to Notes 2 
and 6 for additional information about the Company’s goodwill and other intangible assets.

64

Revenue Recognition—As described above, the Company derives revenues primarily from the sale of Life Sciences, 
Diagnostics, Dental and Environmental & Applied Solutions products and services.  For revenue related to a product or service 
to qualify for recognition, there must be persuasive evidence of an arrangement with a customer, delivery must have occurred 
or the services must have been rendered, the price to the customer must be fixed and determinable and collectability of the 
associated fee must be reasonably assured.  The Company’s principal terms of sale are FOB Shipping Point, or equivalent, and, 
as such, the Company primarily records revenue for product sales upon shipment.  Sales arrangements entered with delivery 
terms that are not FOB Shipping Point are not recognized upon shipment and the delivery criteria for revenue recognition is 
evaluated based on the associated shipping terms and customer obligations.  If any significant obligation to the customer with 
respect to a sales transaction remains to be fulfilled following shipment (typically installation or acceptance by the customer), 
revenue recognition is deferred until such obligations have been fulfilled.  Returns for products sold are estimated and recorded 
as a reduction of revenue at the time of sale.  Customer allowances and rebates, consisting primarily of volume discounts and 
other short-term incentive programs, are recorded as a reduction of revenue at the time of sale because these allowances reflect 
a reduction in the purchase price.  Product returns, customer allowances and rebates are estimated based on historical 
experience and known trends.  Revenue related to separately priced extended warranty and product maintenance agreements is 
deferred when appropriate and recognized as revenue over the term of the agreement.

Certain of the Company’s revenues relate to operating-type lease (“OTL”) arrangements.  Instrument lease revenue for OTL 
agreements is recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease, and the costs of customer-leased instruments are 
recorded within property, plant and equipment in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and depreciated over the 
instrument’s estimated useful life.  The depreciation expense is reflected in cost of sales in the accompanying Consolidated 
Statements of Earnings.  The OTLs are generally not cancellable until after the first two years.  Certain of the Company’s lease 
contracts are customized for larger customers and often result in complex terms and conditions that typically require significant 
judgment in applying the criteria used to evaluate whether the arrangement should be considered an OTL or a “sales-type” 
lease.  A sales-type lease would result in earlier recognition of instrument revenue as compared to an OTL.

Revenues for contractual arrangements consisting of multiple elements (i.e., deliverables) are recognized for the separate 
elements when the product or services that are part of the multiple element arrangement have value on a stand-alone basis and, 
in arrangements that include a general right of refund relative to the delivered element, performance of the undelivered element 
is considered probable and substantially in the Company’s control.  Certain customer arrangements include multiple elements, 
typically hardware, installation, training, consulting, services and/or post contract support (“PCS”).  Generally, these elements 
are delivered within the same reporting period, except PCS or other services, for which revenue is recognized over the service 
period.  The Company allocates revenue to each element in the arrangement using the selling price hierarchy and based on each 
element’s relative selling price.  The selling price for a deliverable is based on its vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) 
if available, third-party evidence (“TPE”) if VSOE is not available, or estimated selling price (“ESP”) if neither VSOE or TPE 
is available.  The Company considers relevant internal and external market factors in cases where the Company is required to 
estimate selling prices.  Allocation of the consideration is determined at the arrangements’ inception.

Shipping and Handling—Shipping and handling costs are included as a component of cost of sales.  Revenue derived from 
shipping and handling costs billed to customers is included in sales.

Advertising—Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

Research and Development—The Company conducts research and development activities for the purpose of developing new 
products, enhancing the functionality, effectiveness, ease of use and reliability of the Company’s existing products and 
expanding the applications for which uses of the Company’s products are appropriate.  Research and development costs are 
expensed as incurred.

Income Taxes—The Company’s income tax expense represents the tax liability for the current year, the tax benefit or expense 
for the net change in deferred tax liabilities and assets during the year, as well as reserves for unrecognized tax benefits and 
return to provision adjustments.  Deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial 
statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted rates expected to be in effect during the year in which the 
differences reverse.  Deferred tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in the 
Company’s tax return in future years for which the tax benefit has already been reflected on the Company’s Consolidated 
Statements of Earnings.  The Company establishes valuation allowances for its deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not 
that some or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.  Deferred tax liabilities generally represent items that have already 
been taken as a deduction on the Company’s tax return but have not yet been recognized as an expense in the Company’s 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized 
in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date.  The Company provides for unrecognized tax benefits 
when, based upon the technical merits, it is “more likely than not” that an uncertain tax position will not be sustained upon 
examination.  Judgment is required in evaluating tax positions and determining income tax provisions.  The Company re-

65

evaluates the technical merits of its tax positions and may recognize an uncertain tax benefit in certain circumstances, including 
when: (1) a tax audit is completed; (2) applicable tax laws change, including a tax case ruling or legislative guidance; or (3) the 
applicable statute of limitations expires.  The Company recognizes potential accrued interest and penalties associated with 
unrecognized tax positions in income tax expense.  Refer to Note 12 for additional information.

Restructuring—The Company periodically initiates restructuring activities to appropriately position the Company’s cost base 
relative to prevailing economic conditions and associated customer demand as well as in connection with certain acquisitions.  
Costs associated with restructuring actions can include onetime termination benefits and related charges in addition to facility 
closure, contract termination and other related activities.  The Company records the cost of the restructuring activities when the 
associated liability is incurred.  Refer to Note 14 for additional information.

Foreign Currency Translation—Exchange rate adjustments resulting from foreign currency transactions are recognized in net 
earnings, whereas effects resulting from the translation of financial statements are reflected as a component of accumulated 
other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.  Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries operating outside the 
United States with a functional currency other than U.S. dollars are translated into U.S. dollars using year-end exchange rates 
and income statement accounts are translated at weighted average rates.  Net foreign currency transaction gains or losses were 
not material in any of the years presented.

Derivative Financial Instruments—The Company is neither a dealer nor a trader in derivative instruments.  The Company has 
generally accepted the exposure to exchange rate movements without using derivative instruments to manage this risk, although 
the Company’s foreign currency-denominated debt partially hedges its net investments in foreign operations against adverse 
movements in exchange rates.  The Company will periodically enter into foreign currency forward contracts not exceeding 12 
months to mitigate a portion of its foreign currency exchange risk and forward starting swaps to mitigate interest rate risk 
related to the Company’s debt.  When utilized, the derivative instruments are recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or 
liability measured at fair value.  To the extent the foreign currency forward contract or forward starting swap qualifies as an 
effective hedge, changes in fair value are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity.  
The Company’s use of foreign currency forward contracts and forward starting swaps during 2016 and as of the year then 
ended was not significant.  Refer to Note 7 for additional information.

66

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)—Foreign currency translation adjustments are generally not adjusted for 
income taxes as they relate to indefinite investments in non-U.S. subsidiaries.  The changes in accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss) by component are summarized below ($ in millions):

Foreign
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
413.2
$

Pension &
Postretirement
Plan Benefit
Adjustments
$

(366.7)

Unrealized
Gain (Loss) on
Available-For-
Sale Securities
168.0
$

Total

$

214.5

(1,235.0)
—

(552.0)
175.1

39.3
(14.8)

(1,747.7)
160.3

(1,235.0)

(376.9)

24.5

(1,587.4)

23.5 (a)
(7.7)

(122.6) (b)
46.0

Balance, January 1, 2014
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications:

(Decrease) increase
Income tax impact

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications,
net of income taxes
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss):

Increase (decrease)
Income tax impact

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss), net of income taxes

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss), net of
income taxes
Balance, December 31, 2014
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications:

(Decrease) increase
Income tax impact

—
—

—

(1,235.0)
(821.8)

(975.6)
—

15.8

(361.1)
(727.8)

69.8
(12.3)

23.0

80.5
(647.3)

(115.4)
38.9

(99.1)
38.3

(60.8)

(1,648.2)
(1,433.7)

(865.1)
(27.6)

(892.7)

21.1
(5.9)

15.2

(877.5)
(2,311.2)

(593.1)
24.1

(569.0)

(76.6)

(52.1)
115.9

40.7
(15.3)

25.4

(7.8)

17.6
133.5

39.6
(14.8)

24.8

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications,
net of income taxes

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss):

(975.6)

57.5

Increase (decrease)
Income tax impact

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss), net of income taxes

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss), net of
income taxes
Balance, December 31, 2015
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications:

(Decrease) increase
Income tax impact

—
—

—

(975.6)
(1,797.4)

(517.3)
—

33.5 (a)
(10.5)

(12.4) (b)
4.6

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications,
net of income taxes

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss):

(517.3)

(76.5)

Increase (decrease)
Income tax impact

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss), net of income taxes

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss), net of
income taxes
Distribution of Fortive Corporation
Balance, December 31, 2016

$

—
—

—

28.0 (a)
(9.7)

(223.4) (b)
83.8

(195.4)
74.1

18.3

(139.6)

(121.3)

(517.3)
(83.5)
(2,398.2) $

(58.2)
63.3 (c)

(642.2)

$

(114.8)
—
18.7

(690.3)
(20.2)
(3,021.7)

$

(a)  This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component is included in the computation of net periodic pension and postretirement

cost (refer to Notes 10 and 11 for additional details).

(b) Included in other income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings (refer to Note 13 for additional details).
(c)  This accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component included an income tax impact of $21 million.

67

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—The Company accounts for stock-based compensation by measuring the cost of 
employee services received in exchange for all equity awards granted, including stock options, restricted stock units (“RSUs”) 
and performance stock units (“PSUs”), based on the fair value of the award as of the grant date.  Equity-based compensation 
expense is recognized net of an estimated forfeiture rate on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, 
except that in the case of RSUs, compensation expense is recognized using an accelerated attribution method.  Refer to Note 17 
for additional information on the stock-based compensation plans in which certain employees of the Company participate.

Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans—The Company measures its pension and postretirement plans’ assets and its 
obligations that determine the respective plan’s funded status as of the end of the Company’s fiscal year, and recognizes an 
asset for a plan’s overfunded status or a liability for a plan’s underfunded status in its balance sheet.  Changes in the funded 
status of the plans are recognized in the year in which the changes occur and reported in comprehensive income (loss).  Refer to 
Notes 10 and 11 for additional information on the Company’s pension and postretirement plans including a discussion of the 
actuarial assumptions, the Company’s policy for recognizing the associated gains and losses and the method used to estimate 
service and interest cost components.

New Accounting Standards—In November 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting 
Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory, 
which simplifies the guidance on the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than 
inventory.  The ASU is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim 
reporting periods within those annual reporting periods, with early adoption permitted.  Management believes that the new 
standard will not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), which addresses eight specific cash 
flow issues with the objective of reducing the existing diversity in practice in how cash receipts and cash payments are 
presented in the statement of cash flows.  The ASU is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 
2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted.  The amendments should be applied 
retrospectively to all periods presented.  The Company adopted this standard in the third quarter of 2016.  The adoption of this 
ASU resulted in the make-whole premiums of $188 million related to the early extinguishment of borrowings in the third 
quarter of 2016 being reflected as a financing activity and the tax benefit related to these payments being reflected as an 
operating activity in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2016.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit 
Losses on Financial Instruments, which amends the impairment model by requiring entities to use a forward-looking approach 
based on expected losses to estimate credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables.  The 
ASU is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted.  
Management has not yet completed its assessment of the impact of the new standard on the Company’s consolidated financial 
statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718), which aims to simplify 
several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences, classification 
of awards as either equity or liabilities, classification of certain items on the statement of cash flows and accounting for 
forfeitures.  The ASU is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption 
permitted.  The Company will adopt this standard in fiscal year 2017.  The ASU will require that the difference between the 
actual tax benefit realized upon exercise and the tax benefit recorded based on the fair value of the stock award at the time of 
grant (the “excess tax benefits”) to be reflected as a reduction of the current period provision for income taxes with any 
shortfall recorded as an increase in the tax provision rather than as a component of changes to additional paid-in capital.  The 
ASU will also require the excess tax benefit realized be reflected as operating cash flow rather than a financing cash flow.  Had 
this ASU been adopted at January 1, 2015, the provision for income taxes from continuing operations would have been reduced 
and operating cash flow from continuing operations would have been increased by $30 million and $66 million for the years 
ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  The actual benefit realized in future periods is inherently uncertain and will 
vary based on the timing and relative value realized for future share-based transactions.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which will require, among other items, lessees to 
recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for most leases.  Extensive quantitative and qualitative disclosures, including 
significant judgments made by management, will be required to provide greater insight into the extent of revenue and expense 
recognized and expected to be recognized from existing contracts.  The accounting applied by a lessor is largely unchanged 
from that applied under the current standard.  The standard must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition approach 
and provides for certain practical expedients.  The ASU is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 
15, 2018, with early adoption permitted.  Management has not yet completed its assessment of the impact of the new standard 
on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

68

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes 
nearly all existing revenue recognition guidance.  The core principle of Topic 606 is that revenue should be recognized to depict 
the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects 
to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.  In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of the standard by 
one year which results in the new standard being effective for the Company at the beginning of its first quarter of fiscal year 
2018.  In addition, during March, April, May and December 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts 
with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net), ASU No. 2016-10, 
Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, ASU No. 2016-12, 
Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients and ASU No. 
2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, respectively, which 
clarified the guidance on certain items such as reporting revenue as a principal versus agent, identifying performance 
obligations, accounting for intellectual property licenses, assessing collectability, presentation of sales taxes, impairment testing 
for contract costs and disclosure of performance obligations.  The Company plans to adopt the new standard on January 1, 2018 
and expects the impact of the new standard on the amount and timing of revenue recognition to be insignificant.  The new 
standard will require certain costs, primarily commissions on contracts greater than one year in duration, to be capitalized 
versus expensed currently.  The Company expects to use the modified retrospective method of adoption, reflecting the 
cumulative effect of initially applying the new standard to revenue recognition in the first quarter of 2018.

NOTE 2.  ACQUISITIONS

The Company continually evaluates potential acquisitions that either strategically fit with the Company’s existing portfolio or 
expand the Company’s portfolio into a new and attractive business area.  The Company has completed a number of acquisitions 
that have been accounted for as purchases and have resulted in the recognition of goodwill in the Company’s consolidated 
financial statements.  This goodwill arises because the purchase prices for these businesses reflect a number of factors 
including the future earnings and cash flow potential of these businesses, the multiple to earnings, cash flow and other factors 
at which similar businesses have been purchased by other acquirers, the competitive nature of the processes by which the 
Company acquired the businesses, the avoidance of the time and costs which would be required (and the associated risks that 
would be encountered) to enhance the Company’s existing product offerings to key target markets and enter into new and 
profitable businesses, and the complementary strategic fit and resulting synergies these businesses bring to existing operations.

The Company makes an initial allocation of the purchase price at the date of acquisition based upon its understanding of the 
fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities.  The Company obtains this information during due diligence and 
through other sources.  In the months after closing, as the Company obtains additional information about these assets and 
liabilities, including through tangible and intangible asset appraisals, and learns more about the newly acquired business, it is 
able to refine the estimates of fair value and more accurately allocate the purchase price.  Only items identified as of the 
acquisition date are considered for subsequent adjustment.  The Company is continuing to evaluate certain pre-acquisition 
contingencies associated with certain of its 2016 acquisitions and is also in the process of obtaining valuations of certain 
property, plant and equipment, acquired intangible assets and certain acquisition-related liabilities in connection with these 
acquisitions.  The Company will make appropriate adjustments to the purchase price allocation prior to completion of the 
measurement period, as required.

The following briefly describes the Company’s acquisition activity for the three years ended December 31, 2016.

On November 4, 2016, Copper Merger Sub, Inc., a California corporation and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Cepheid, a California corporation, for $53.00 per share in 
cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $4.0 billion, net of assumed debt and acquired cash (the “Cepheid 
Acquisition”).  Cepheid is a leading global molecular diagnostics company that develops, manufactures and markets accurate 
and easy to use molecular systems and tests and is now part of the Company’s Diagnostics segment.  Cepheid generated 
revenues of $539 million in 2015.

The Company financed the Cepheid acquisition price with available cash and proceeds from the issuance of U.S. dollar and 
euro-denominated commercial paper.  The Company preliminarily recorded approximately $2.6 billion of goodwill related to 
the Cepheid Acquisition.  As Cepheid is integrated into the Company, the Company expects to realize significant cost synergies 
through the application of the Danaher Business System and the combined purchasing power of the Company and Cepheid.

In addition to the Cepheid Acquisition, during 2016 the Company acquired seven businesses for total consideration of $882 
million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these seven businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based 
on the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were $237 million.  The Company 
preliminarily recorded an aggregate of $478 million of goodwill related to these acquisitions.

69

On August 31, 2015, Pentagon Merger Sub, Inc., a New York corporation and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the 
Company, acquired all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Pall, a New York corporation, for $127.20 per share in 
cash, for a total purchase price of approximately $13.6 billion, net of assumed debt of $417 million and acquired cash of 
approximately $1.2 billion (the “Pall Acquisition”).  Pall is a leading global provider of filtration, separation and purification 
solutions that remove contaminants or separate substances from a variety of solids, liquids and gases, and is now part of the 
Company’s Life Sciences segment.  In its fiscal year ended July 31, 2015, Pall generated consolidated revenues of 
approximately $2.8 billion.  Pall serves customers in the biopharmaceutical, food and beverage and medical markets as well as 
the process technologies, aerospace and microelectronics markets.  The Company preliminarily recorded approximately $9.6 
billion of goodwill related to the Pall Acquisition.

The Company financed the approximately $13.6 billion acquisition price of Pall with approximately $2.5 billion of available 
cash, approximately $8.1 billion of net proceeds from the issuance and sale of U.S. dollar and euro-denominated commercial 
paper and €2.7 billion  (approximately $3.0 billion based on currency exchange rates as of the date of issuance) of net proceeds 
from the issuance and sale of euro-denominated senior unsecured notes.  Subsequent to the Pall Acquisition, the Company used 
the approximately $2.0 billion of net proceeds from the issuance of U.S. dollar-denominated senior unsecured notes and the 
approximately CHF 755 million ($732 million based on currency exchange rates as of date of issuance) of net proceeds, 
including the related premium, from the issuance and sale of Swiss franc-denominated senior unsecured bonds to repay a 
portion of the commercial paper issued to finance the Pall Acquisition.

In addition to the Pall Acquisition, during 2015 the Company acquired nine businesses for total consideration of approximately 
$670 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these nine businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on 
the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $355 million.  The 
Company preliminarily recorded an aggregate of $285 million of goodwill related to these acquisitions.

In December 2014, the Company completed its tender offer for the outstanding shares of common stock of Nobel Biocare 
Holding AG (“Nobel Biocare”) and acquired substantially all of the Nobel Biocare shares, with the remainder of the Nobel 
Biocare shares acquired in 2015 pursuant to a squeeze-out transaction, for an aggregate cash purchase price of approximately 
CHF 1.9 billion (approximately $1.9 billion based on exchange rates as of the date the shares of common stock were acquired) 
including debt assumed and net of cash acquired.  Nobel Biocare had revenues of €567 million in 2013 (approximately  $780 
million based on exchange rates as of December 31, 2013), and is now part of the Company’s Dental segment.  The Company 
preliminarily recorded approximately $1.0 billion of goodwill related to the acquisition of Nobel Biocare.  The Company 
financed the acquisition of Nobel Biocare from available cash. 

In addition to the acquisition of Nobel Biocare, during 2014 the Company acquired 10 businesses for total consideration of 
$978 million in cash, net of cash acquired.  The businesses acquired complement existing units of each of the Company’s four 
segments.  The aggregate annual sales of these 10 businesses at the time of their respective acquisitions, in each case based on 
the company’s revenues for its last completed fiscal year prior to the acquisition, were approximately $285 million.  The 
Company preliminarily recorded an aggregate of $479 million of goodwill related to these acquisitions.

70

The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition ($ in 
millions):

2016

2015

2014

Trade accounts receivable

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and
technology

In-process research and development

Trade accounts payable

Other assets and liabilities, net

Assumed debt

Net assets acquired

Less: noncash consideration

Net cash consideration

$

97.8

$

590.4

$

204.8

161.8

3,061.8

1,867.0

65.0
(50.7)
(518.0)
(1.0)
4,888.5
(8.4)

$

4,880.1

$

521.9

740.0

9,841.0

5,045.3

—
(182.0)
(1,844.5)
(417.0)
14,295.1
(47.3)
14,247.8

175.4

143.5

82.5

1,492.4

1,544.4

56.0
(46.7)
(472.6)
(135.5)
2,839.4

—

$

2,839.4

The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition for 
the individually significant acquisition in 2016 discussed above, and all of the other 2016 acquisitions as a group ($ in 
millions):

Trade accounts receivable

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and
technology

In-process research and development

Trade accounts payable

Other assets and liabilities, net

Assumed debt

Net assets acquired

Less: noncash consideration

Net cash consideration

Cepheid

Others

Total

$

61.4

$

165.8

144.5

2,584.0

1,480.0

65.0
(41.2)
(452.4)
(1.0)
4,006.1
(8.4)

$

3,997.7

$

36.4

39.0

17.3

477.8

387.0

—
(9.5)
(65.6)
—

882.4

—
882.4

$

$

97.8

204.8

161.8

3,061.8

1,867.0

65.0
(50.7)
(518.0)
(1.0)
4,888.5
(8.4)
4,880.1

71

The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition for 
the individually significant acquisition in 2015 discussed above, and all of the other 2015 acquisitions as a group ($ in 
millions):

Trade accounts receivable

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and
technology

Trade accounts payable

Other assets and liabilities, net

Assumed debt

Net assets acquired

Less: noncash consideration

Net cash consideration

Pall

Others

Total

$

509.7

$

475.5

713.4

9,556.2

4,798.0
(155.8)
(1,855.2)
(416.9)
13,624.9
(47.3)

$

80.7

46.4

26.6

284.8

247.3
(26.2)
10.7
(0.1)
670.2

—

$

13,577.6

$

670.2

$

590.4

521.9

740.0

9,841.0

5,045.3
(182.0)
(1,844.5)
(417.0)
14,295.1
(47.3)
14,247.8

The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition for 
the individually significant acquisition in 2014 discussed above, and all of the other 2014 acquisitions as a group ($ in 
millions):

Trade accounts receivable

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, primarily customer relationships, trade names and
technology

In-process research and development

Trade accounts payable

Other assets and liabilities, net

Assumed debt

Net cash consideration

Nobel Biocare

Others

Total

$

124.9

$

69.0

59.4

1,013.6

1,049.3

—
(30.8)
(291.0)
(132.7)
1,861.7

$

$

50.5

74.5

23.1

478.8

495.1

56.0
(15.9)
(181.6)
(2.8)
977.7

$

$

175.4

143.5

82.5

1,492.4

1,544.4

56.0
(46.7)
(472.6)
(135.5)
2,839.4

During 2016, primarily in connection with the Cepheid Acquisition, the Company incurred $61 million of pretax transaction-
related costs, primarily banking fees, legal fees, amounts paid to other third-party advisers and change in control costs.  In 
addition, the Company’s earnings for 2016 reflect the impact of additional pretax charges of $23 million associated with fair 
value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue primarily related to the Cepheid Acquisition.

During 2015, in connection with the Pall Acquisition, the Company incurred $47 million of pretax transaction-related costs, 
primarily banking fees, legal fees, amounts paid to other third-party advisers and change in control costs as well as $11 million 
of a pretax curtailment gain resulting from the Company freezing and discontinuing all future accruals to the Pall pension plan, 
which necessitated a remeasurement of the plan obligations.  In addition, the Company’s earnings for 2015 reflect the impact of 
additional pretax charges of $91 million associated with fair value adjustments to acquired inventory and deferred revenue 
related to the Pall Acquisition and $20 million associated with fair value adjustments to acquired inventory related to the 
acquisition of Nobel Biocare.  

During 2014, in connection with the Nobel Biocare acquisition, the Company incurred $12 million of pretax transaction related 
costs, primarily banking fees, legal fees, amounts paid to other third-party advisers and change in control costs.  In addition, the 
Company’s earnings for 2014 reflect the impact of additional pretax charges of $5 million associated with fair value 
adjustments to acquired inventory related to the Nobel Biocare acquisition.  

72

Transaction-related costs and acquisition-related fair value adjustments attributable to other acquisitions were not material to 
2016, 2015, or 2014 earnings.

Pro Forma Financial Information (Unaudited)

The unaudited pro forma information for the periods set forth below gives effect to the 2016 and 2015 acquisitions as if they 
had occurred as of January 1, 2015.  The pro forma information is presented for informational purposes only and is not 
necessarily indicative of the results of operations that actually would have been achieved had the acquisitions been 
consummated as of that time ($ in millions except per share amounts):

Sales

Net earnings from continuing operations

Diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations

2016

2015

$

17,501.9

$

17,107.3

2,088.5

2.99

1,666.3

2.35

The 2016 unaudited pro forma revenue and earnings set forth above were adjusted to exclude the impact of the nonrecurring 
acquisition date fair value adjustments to inventory and deferred revenue primarily for the Cepheid Acquisition of $23 million 
pretax and the 2015 unaudited pro forma revenue and earnings set forth above were adjusted to include the impact of these 
same fair value adjustments as if the acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2015.

In addition, the acquisition-related transaction costs and change in control payments of approximately $61 million in 2016 
associated primarily with the Cepheid Acquisition and $47 million in 2015 associated with the Pall Acquisition were excluded 
from pro forma earnings in 2016 and 2015, respectively.

NOTE 3.  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

Fortive Corporation Separation

On July 2, 2016 (the “Distribution Date”), Danaher completed the separation (the “Separation”) of its former Test & 
Measurement segment, Industrial Technologies segment (excluding the product identification businesses) and retail/commercial 
petroleum business by distributing to Danaher stockholders on a pro rata basis all of the issued and outstanding common stock 
of Fortive Corporation (“Fortive”), the entity Danaher incorporated to hold such businesses.  To effect the Separation, Danaher 
distributed to its stockholders one share of Fortive common stock for every two shares of Danaher common stock outstanding 
as of June 15, 2016, the record date for the distribution.  Fractional shares of Fortive common stock that otherwise would have 
been distributed were aggregated and sold into the public market and the proceeds distributed to Danaher stockholders.

In preparation for the Separation, in June 2016 Fortive issued approximately $3.4 billion in debt securities (refer to Note 9).  
The proceeds from these borrowings were used to fund the approximately $3.0 billion net cash distributions Fortive made to 
Danaher prior to the Distribution Date (“Fortive Distribution”).  Danaher used a portion of the cash distribution proceeds to 
repay the $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.3% senior unsecured notes that matured in June 2016 and to redeem 
approximately $1.9 billion in aggregate principal amount of outstanding indebtedness in August 2016 (consisting of the 
Company’s 5.625% senior unsecured notes due 2018, 5.4% senior unsecured notes due 2019 and 3.9% senior unsecured notes 
due 2021 (collectively the “Redeemed Notes”)).  Danaher also paid an aggregate of $188 million in make-whole premiums in 
connection with the August 2016 redemptions, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  The Company has also used, and intends to 
use, the balance of the Fortive Distribution to fund certain of the Company’s regular, quarterly cash dividends to shareholders. 

The accounting requirements for reporting the Separation of Fortive as a discontinued operation were met when the Separation 
was completed.  Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated financial statements for all periods presented reflect this business 
as a discontinued operation.  The Company allocated a portion of the consolidated interest expense and income to discontinued 
operations based on the ratio of the discontinued business’ net assets to the Company’s consolidated net assets.  Fortive had 
revenues of approximately $3.0 billion in 2016 prior to the Separation and approximately $6.1 billion in 2015. 

As a result of the Separation, the Company incurred $48 million in Separation-related costs during the year ended 
December 31, 2016 which are included in earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes in the accompanying 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  These Separation costs primarily relate to professional fees associated with preparation 
of regulatory filings and Separation activities within finance, tax, legal and information system functions as well as certain 
investment banking fees and tax liabilities incurred upon the Separation. 

In connection with the Separation, Danaher and Fortive entered into various agreements to effect the Separation and provide a 
framework for their relationship after the Separation, including a transition services agreement, an employee matters 

73

agreement, a tax matters agreement, an intellectual property matters agreement and a Danaher Business System (“DBS”) 
license agreement.  These agreements provide for the allocation between Danaher and Fortive of assets, employees, liabilities 
and obligations (including investments, property and employee benefits and tax-related assets and liabilities) attributable to 
periods prior to, at and after Fortive’s separation from Danaher and govern certain relationships between Danaher and Fortive 
after the Separation.  In addition, Danaher is also party to various commercial agreements with Fortive entities.  The amount 
billed for transition services provided under the above agreements as well as sales and purchases to and from Fortive were not 
material to the Company’s results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Communications Business Split-off 

In July 2015, the Company consummated the split-off of the majority of its former communications business to Danaher 
shareholders who elected to exchange Danaher shares for ownership interests in the communications business, and the 
subsequent merger of the communications business with a subsidiary of NetScout Systems, Inc. (“NetScout”).  Danaher 
shareholders who participated in the exchange offer tendered 26 million shares of Danaher common stock (approximately $2.3 
billion on the date of tender) and received 62.5 million shares of NetScout common stock which represented approximately 
60% of the shares of NetScout common stock outstanding following the combination. 

The accounting requirements for reporting the disposition of the communications business as a discontinued operation were 
met when the split-off and merger were completed.  Accordingly, the accompanying consolidated financial statements for all 
periods presented reflect this business as discontinued operations.  The Company allocated a portion of the consolidated interest 
expense to discontinued operations based on the ratio of the discontinued business’ net assets to the Company’s consolidated 
net assets.  The Company recorded an aggregate after-tax gain on the disposition of this business of $767 million (including $6 
million in related income tax benefits), or $1.08 per diluted share, in its 2015 results in connection with the closing of this 
transaction representing the value of the 26 million shares of Company common stock tendered for the communications 
business in excess of the carrying value of the business’ net assets.  The communications business had revenues of $346 million 
in 2015 prior to the disposition and $760 million in 2014.

The key components of income from both the Fortive and communications businesses from discontinued operations for the 
years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

Sales

Cost of sales

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Research and development expenses

Other income

Interest expense

Interest income

Income from discontinued operations before income taxes
Gain on disposition of discontinued operations before income taxes

Earnings from discontinued operations before income taxes

Income taxes

Earnings from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

2016

2015

2014

$

$

3,029.8
(1,566.4)
(696.0)
(190.4)
—
(19.7)
—

557.3

—

557.3
(157.0)
400.3

$

$

6,524.5
(3,285.1)
(1,458.9)
(457.6)
—
(24.8)
0.7

1,298.8

760.5

2,059.3
(448.6)
1,610.7

$

$

7,097.0
(3,504.0)
(1,661.9)
(544.8)
33.9
(28.0)
3.4

1,395.6

—

1,395.6
(435.9)
959.7

74

The following table summarizes the major classes of assets and liabilities of the Fortive-related discontinued operations that 
were included in the Company’s accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 ($ in millions):

Assets:

Trade accounts receivable, net

Inventories

Property, plant and equipment, net

Goodwill

Other intangible assets, net

Other assets

Total assets, discontinued operations
Liabilities:

Trade accounts payable

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Other long-term liabilities

Total liabilities, discontinued operations

NOTE 4.  INVENTORIES

The classes of inventory as of December 31 are summarized as follows ($ in millions):

Finished goods

Work in process

Raw materials

Total

$

$

$

$

979.0

522.3

522.9

4,055.4

725.0

470.9

7,275.5

657.1

666.8

512.6

1,836.5

2016

2015

884.4

$

299.4

525.6

854.6

242.8

475.7

1,709.4

$

1,573.1

$

$

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the difference between inventories valued at LIFO and the value of that same inventory if 
the FIFO method had been used was not significant.  The liquidation of LIFO inventory did not have a significant impact on the 
Company’s results of operations in any period presented.

NOTE 5.  PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The classes of property, plant and equipment as of December 31 are summarized as follows ($ in millions):

Land and improvements

Buildings

Machinery and equipment

Customer-leased instruments

Gross property, plant and equipment

Less: accumulated depreciation

Property, plant and equipment, net

2016

2015

$

150.5

$

880.9

1,953.9

1,332.0

4,317.3
(1,963.3)
2,354.0

$

$

121.7

890.1

1,690.2

1,287.7

3,989.7
(1,687.0)
2,302.7

NOTE 6.  GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

As discussed in Note 2, goodwill arises from the purchase price for acquired businesses exceeding the fair value of tangible and 
intangible assets acquired less assumed liabilities and noncontrolling interests.  Management assesses the goodwill of each of 
its reporting units for impairment at least annually at the beginning of the fourth quarter and as “triggering” events occur that 
indicate that it is more likely than not that an impairment exists.  The Company elected to bypass the optional qualitative 

75

goodwill assessment allowed by applicable accounting standards and performed a quantitative impairment test for all reporting 
units as this was determined to be the most effective method to assess for impairment across a large spectrum of reporting units.  

The Company estimates the fair value of its reporting units primarily using a market approach, based on current trading 
multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for companies operating in businesses 
similar to each of the Company’s reporting units, in addition to recent available market sale transactions of comparable 
businesses.  In certain circumstances the Company also estimates fair value utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis (i.e., an 
income approach) in order to validate the results of the market approach.  If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit is less 
than its carrying value, the Company must perform additional analysis to determine if the reporting unit’s goodwill has been 
impaired.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company had eight reporting units for goodwill impairment testing.  As of the date of the 2016 
annual impairment test, the carrying value of the goodwill included in each individual reporting unit ranged from $503 million 
to approximately $11.7 billion.  No goodwill impairment charges were recorded for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 
and 2014 and no “triggering” events have occurred subsequent to the performance of the 2016 annual impairment test.  The 
factors used by management in its impairment analysis are inherently subject to uncertainty.  If actual results are not consistent 
with management’s estimates and assumptions, goodwill and other intangible assets may be overstated and a charge would 
need to be taken against net earnings.

The following is a rollforward of the Company’s goodwill by segment ($ in millions): 

Balance, January 1, 2015

Attributable to 2015 acquisitions

Adjustments due to finalization of
purchase price adjustments

Foreign currency translation and
other

Balance, December 31, 2015

Attributable to 2016 acquisitions

Adjustments due to finalization of
purchase price adjustments

Foreign currency translation and
other

Life
Sciences

$

1,933.2

9,560.2

(4.6)

(180.3)

11,308.5

438.6

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental
& Applied
Solutions

Total

$

4,412.1

$

3,142.9

$

2,086.9

$

11,575.1

180.3

(6.9)

(198.1)
4,387.4

2,590.5

7.0

197.9 (a)

(111.7)
3,236.1

4.2

—

93.5

—

(97.5)
2,082.9

28.5

5.1

9,841.0

186.4

(587.6)
21,014.9

3,061.8

92.6

89.7 (b)

(2.2)

Balance, December 31, 2016

$

11,610.3

$

(226.5)

(72.7)
6,903.0

$

(24.7)
3,215.6

$

(18.5)
2,098.0

$

(342.4)
23,826.9

(a)  This adjustment is primarily related to finalization of the Nobel Biocare purchase price adjustments.
(b) This adjustment is primarily related to finalization of the Pall purchase price adjustments.

Finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their legal or estimated useful life.  The following summarizes the gross 
carrying value and accumulated amortization for each major category of intangible asset as of December 31 ($ in millions): 

2016

2015

Gross
Carrying
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Gross
Carrying
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Finite-lived intangibles:

Patents and technology

Customer relationships and other intangibles

Total finite-lived intangibles
Indefinite-lived intangibles:

Trademarks and trade names

Total intangibles

$

2,211.3

$

(618.5) $

1,857.2

$

(1,627.1)
(2,245.6)

5,994.1

7,851.3

(488.7)
(1,199.9)
(1,688.6)

—
(2,245.6) $

4,382.6

12,233.9

$

—
(1,688.6)

6,990.9

9,202.2

4,861.4

$

14,063.6

$

76

During 2016, the Company acquired finite-lived intangible assets, consisting primarily of customer relationships, with a 
weighted average life of 14 years.  Refer to Note 2 for additional information on the intangible assets acquired.

Total intangible amortization expense in 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $583 million, $397 million and $269 million, respectively.  
Based on the intangible assets recorded as of December 31, 2016, amortization expense is estimated to be $649 million during 
2017, $633 million during 2018, $625 million during 2019, $620 million during 2020 and $608 million during 2021.

NOTE 7.  FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Accounting standards define fair value based on an exit price model, establish a framework for measuring fair value where the 
Company’s assets and liabilities are required to be carried at fair value and provide for certain disclosures related to the 
valuation methods used within a valuation hierarchy as established within the accounting standards.  This hierarchy prioritizes 
the inputs into three broad levels as follows.  Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets 
or liabilities.  Level 2 inputs are quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or 
similar assets in markets that are not active, or other observable characteristics for the asset or liability, including interest rates, 
yield curves and credit risks, or inputs that are derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data through 
correlation.  Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs based on the Company’s assumptions.  A financial asset or liability’s 
classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement 
in its entirety.

A summary of financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows ($ in millions):

Quoted Prices in
Active Market
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

Total

December 31, 2016:

Assets:

Available-for-sale securities

$

117.8

$

52.3

$

— $

170.1

Liabilities:

Deferred compensation plans

—

52.2

—

52.2

December 31, 2015:

Assets:

Available-for-sale securities

$

342.3

$

59.1

$

— $

401.4

Liabilities:

Deferred compensation plans

—

55.5

—

55.5

Available-for-sale securities, which are included in other long-term assets in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets, 
are either measured at fair value using quoted market prices in an active market or if they are not traded on an active market are 
valued at quoted prices reported by investment brokers and dealers based on the underlying terms of the security and 
comparison to similar securities traded on an active market.

The Company has established nonqualified deferred compensation programs that permit officers, directors and certain 
management employees to defer a portion of their compensation, on a pretax basis, until after their termination of employment 
(or board service, as applicable).  All amounts deferred under such plans are unfunded, unsecured obligations of the Company 
and are presented as a component of the Company’s compensation and benefits accrual included in other long-term liabilities in 
the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets (refer to Note 8).  Participants may choose among alternative earnings rates for 
the amounts they defer, which are primarily based on investment options within the Company’s 401(k) program (except that the 
earnings rates for amounts deferred by the Company’s directors and amounts contributed unilaterally by the Company are 
entirely based on changes in the value of the Company’s common stock).  Changes in the deferred compensation liability under 
these programs are recognized based on changes in the fair value of the participants’ accounts, which are based on the 
applicable earnings rates.

77

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company’s financial instruments as of December 31 were as follows ($ in 
millions):

Assets:

Available-for-sale securities

$

170.1

$

170.1

$

401.4

$

401.4

2016

2015

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair Value

Liabilities:

Short-term borrowings

Long-term borrowings

2,594.8

9,674.2

2,594.8

10,095.1

845.2

12,025.2

845.2

12,471.4

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, available-for-sale securities were categorized as Level 1 and Level 2, as indicated above, 
and short and long-term borrowings were categorized as Level 1.

The fair value of long-term borrowings was based on quoted market prices.  The difference between the fair value and the 
carrying amounts of long-term borrowings (other than the Company’s Liquid Yield Option Notes due 2021 (the “LYONs”)) is 
attributable to changes in market interest rates and/or the Company’s credit ratings subsequent to the incurrence of the 
borrowing.  In the case of the LYONs, differences in the fair value from the carrying value are attributable to changes in the 
price of the Company’s common stock due to the LYONs’ conversion features.  The fair values of borrowings with original 
maturities of one year or less, as well as cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable, net and trade accounts payable 
approximate their carrying amounts due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.

Refer to Note 10 for information related to the fair value of the Company sponsored defined benefit pension plan assets.

NOTE 8.  ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES

Accrued expenses and other liabilities as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

Compensation and benefits

Pension and postretirement benefits

Taxes, income and other

Deferred revenue

Sales and product allowances

Other
Total

2016

2015

Current

Noncurrent

Current

Noncurrent

$

914.1

$

247.1

$

775.3

$

91.7

293.9

539.8

144.1

810.6

1,222.9

3,894.1

92.7

2.0

211.5

101.9

381.2

457.0

135.2

758.8

$

2,794.2

$

5,670.3

$

2,609.4

$

261.8

1,226.2

4,031.1

76.5

2.2

152.2

5,750.0

78

NOTE 9.  FINANCING

The components of the Company’s debt as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

U.S. dollar-denominated commercial paper

Euro-denominated commercial paper (€3.0 billion and €2.8 billion, respectively)
2.3% senior unsecured notes due 2016 (the “2016 Notes”)

4.0% senior unsecured bonds due 2016 (CHF 120.0 million aggregate principal amount)
(“the 2016 Bonds”)

Floating rate senior unsecured notes due 2017 (€500.0 million aggregate principal amount)
(the “2017 Euronotes”)

0.0% senior unsecured bonds due 2017 (CHF 100.0 million aggregate principal amount) (the
“2017 CHF Bonds”)

5.625% senior unsecured notes due 2018 (the “2018 Notes”)

1.65% senior unsecured notes due 2018 (the “2018 U.S. Notes”)

5.4% senior unsecured notes due 2019 (the “2019 Notes”)

1.0% senior unsecured notes due 2019 (€600.0 million aggregate principal amount) (the
“2019 Euronotes”)
2.4% senior unsecured notes due 2020 (the “2020 U.S. Notes”)

5.0% senior unsecured notes due 2020 (the “2020 Assumed Pall Notes”)

Zero-coupon LYONs due 2021

0.352% senior unsecured notes due 2021 (¥30.0 billion aggregate principal amount) (the
“2021 Yen Notes”)

3.9% senior unsecured notes due 2021 (the “2021 Notes”)

1.7% senior unsecured notes due 2022 (€800.0 million aggregate principal amount) (the
“2022 Euronotes”)

0.5% senior unsecured bonds due 2023 (CHF 540.0 million aggregate principal amount) (the
“2023 CHF Bonds”)

2.5% senior unsecured notes due 2025 (€800.0 million aggregate principal amount) (the
“2025 Euronotes”)

3.35% senior unsecured notes due 2025 (the “2025 U.S. Notes”)

1.125% senior unsecured bonds due 2028 (CHF 110.0 million aggregate principal amount)
(the “2028 CHF Bonds”)

4.375% senior unsecured notes due 2045 (the “2045 U.S. Notes”)

Other

Total debt

Less: currently payable

Long-term debt

2016

2015

$

2,733.5

$

3,127.6

—

—

526.0

98.0

—

498.1

—

628.6
496.8

402.6

68.1

255.6

—

836.5

532.3

836.8

495.8

108.8

499.3

124.6

920.0

3,096.9

500.0

122.6

544.8

99.7

500.0

497.1

750.0

651.0
495.9

410.7

72.6

—

600.0

866.8

541.6

867.9

495.3

110.7

499.3

227.5

12,269.0
2,594.8

$

9,674.2

$

12,870.4
845.2

12,025.2

Debt discounts and debt issuance costs totaled $25 million and $9 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and 
have been netted against the aggregate principal amounts of the related debt in the components of debt table above.

Commercial Paper Programs and Credit Facilities

In 2015, the Company entered into a $4.0 billion unsecured multi-year revolving credit facility with a syndicate of banks that 
expires on July 10, 2020, subject to a one-year extension option at the request of the Company with the consent of the lenders 
(the “5-Year Credit Facility”).  The Company also entered into a $7.0 billion 364-day unsecured revolving credit facility with a 
syndicate of banks that expired in July 2016 (no borrowings were outstanding under the facility at any time) to provide 
additional liquidity support for issuances under the Company’s U.S. and euro-denominated commercial paper programs, the 
proceeds of which were used to finance a portion of the purchase price for the Pall Acquisition.  On October 24, 2016, the 
Company again expanded its borrowing capacity by entering into a $3.0 billion 364-day unsecured revolving credit facility 
with a syndicate of banks that expires on October 23, 2017 (the “364-Day Facility” and together with the 5-Year Credit Facility, 
the “Credit Facilities”), to provide additional liquidity support for issuances under the Company’s U.S. and euro-denominated 
commercial paper programs.  The increase in the size of the Company’s commercial paper programs provided necessary 

79

capacity for the Company to use proceeds from the issuance of commercial paper to fund the purchase price for the Cepheid 
Acquisition, as discussed in more detail below.  

Under the Company’s U.S. and euro-denominated commercial paper programs, the Company or a subsidiary of the Company, 
as applicable, may issue and sell unsecured, short-term promissory notes.  The notes are typically issued at a discount from par, 
generally based on the ratings assigned to the Company by credit rating agencies at the time of the issuance and prevailing 
market rates measured by reference to LIBOR.  The Credit Facilities provide liquidity support for issuances under the 
Company’s commercial paper programs, and can also be used for working capital and other general corporate purposes.  The 
availability of the Credit Facilities as standby liquidity facilities to repay maturing commercial paper is an important factor in 
maintaining the existing credit ratings of the Company’s commercial paper programs.  The Company expects to limit any 
borrowings under the Credit Facilities to amounts that would leave sufficient available borrowing capacity under such facilities 
to allow the Company to borrow, if needed, to repay all of the outstanding commercial paper as it matures.  As commercial 
paper obligations mature, the Company anticipates issuing additional short-term commercial paper obligations to refinance all 
or part of these borrowings.  As of December 31, 2016, borrowings outstanding under the Company’s U.S. and euro 
commercial paper programs had a weighted average annual interest rate of 0.3% and a weighted average remaining maturity of 
approximately 37 days.  The Company has classified approximately $4.0 billion of its borrowings outstanding under the 
commercial paper programs as of December 31, 2016 as long-term debt in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet as 
the Company had the intent and ability, as supported by availability under the 5-Year Credit Facility referenced above, to 
refinance these borrowings for at least one year from the balance sheet date.

Under the Credit Facilities, borrowings (other than bid loans under the 5-Year Credit Facility) bear interest at a rate equal to (at 
the Company’s option) either (1) a LIBOR-based rate (the “LIBOR-Based Rate”), or (2) the highest of (a) the Federal funds 
rate plus 0.5%, (b) the prime rate and (c) the LIBOR-Based Rate plus 1%, plus in each case a specified margin that, in the case 
of the 5-Year Credit Facility, varies according to the Company’s long-term debt credit rating.  In addition to certain initial fees 
the Company paid with respect to the 5-Year Credit Facility at inception of the facility, the Company is obligated to pay an 
annual commitment or facility fee under each Credit Facility that, in the case of the 5-Year Credit Facility, varies according to 
the Company’s long-term debt credit rating.  Each of the Credit Facilities requires the Company to maintain a consolidated 
leverage ratio (as defined in the respective facility) of 0.65 to 1.00 or less, and also contains customary representations, 
warranties, conditions precedent, events of default, indemnities and affirmative and negative covenants.  As of December 31, 
2016, no borrowings were outstanding under either of the Credit Facilities and the Company was in compliance with all 
covenants under each facility.  The nonperformance by any member of either Credit Facility syndicate would reduce the 
maximum capacity of such Credit Facility by such member’s commitment amount.

The Company’s ability to access the commercial paper market, and the related costs of these borrowings, is affected by the 
strength of the Company’s credit rating and market conditions.  Any downgrade in the Company’s credit rating would increase 
the cost of borrowings under the Company’s commercial paper program and the 5-Year Credit Facility, and could limit or 
preclude the Company’s ability to issue commercial paper.  If the Company’s access to the commercial paper market is 
adversely affected due to a credit downgrade, change in market conditions or otherwise, the Company expects it would rely on 
a combination of available cash, operating cash flow and the Credit Facilities to provide short-term funding.  In such event, the 
cost of borrowings under the Credit Facilities could be higher than the cost of commercial paper borrowings.

In addition to the Credit Facilities, the Company has also entered into reimbursement agreements with various commercial 
banks to support the issuance of letters of credit.

80

Long-Term Indebtedness

The following summarizes the key terms for the Company’s long-term debt as of December 31, 2016:

Stated 
Annual 
Interest Rate

three-month
EURIBOR
+ 0.45%

Issue Price

Issue Date

Maturity Date

100%

July 8, 2015

June 30, 2017

0.0%

100.14% December 8, 2015

December 8, 2017

1.65%

1.0%

99.866% September 15, 2015

September 15, 2018

99.696%

July 8, 2015

July 8, 2019

2.4%

99.757% September 15, 2015

September 15, 2020

5.0%

see below

not
applicable

not
applicable

not applicable

June 15, 2020

January 22, 2001

January 22, 2021

January 22 and July
22

0.352%

100% February 28, 2016

March 16, 2021

September 16

1.7%

0.5%

2.5%

99.651%

July 8, 2015

January 4, 2022

100.924% December 8, 2015

December 8, 2023

99.878%

July 8, 2015

July 8, 2025

3.35%

99.857% September 15, 2015

September 15, 2025

1.125%

101.303% December 8, 2015

December 8, 2028

499.3

4.375%

99.784% September 15, 2015

September 15, 2045

Interest Payment 
Dates (in arrears)

March 30, June 30,
September 30 and
December 30

December 8

March 15 and
September 15

July 8

March 15 and
September 15

June 15 and
December 15

January 4

December 8

July 8

March 15 and
September 15

December 8

March 15 and
September 15

Outstanding
Balance as of
December 31,
2016

526.0

98.0

498.1

628.6

496.8

402.6

68.1

255.6

836.5

532.3

836.8

495.8

108.8

2017 Euronotes (1)
2017 CHF Bonds (2)

$

2018 U.S. Notes (3)
2019 Euronotes (1)

2020 U.S. Notes (3)
2020 Assumed Pall 
Notes (5)

2021 LYONs
2021 Yen Notes (4)
2022 Euronotes (1)
2023 CHF Bonds (2)
2025 Euronotes (1)

2025 U.S. Notes (3)
2028 CHF Bonds (2)

2045 U.S. Notes (3)
U.S. dollar and euro-
denominated
commercial paper

Other

Total debt

5,861.1

124.6

various

various

various

various

various

various

various

various

various

various

$

12,269.0

(1) The net proceeds, after underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses, of approximately €2.7 billion  (approximately $3.0
billion based on currency exchange rates as of the date of issuance) from these notes were used to pay a portion of the purchase price for
the Pall Acquisition.

(2) The net proceeds, including the related premium, and after underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses, of

approximately CHF 755 million ($732 million based on currency exchange rates as of date of issuance) from these bonds were used to
repay a portion of the commercial paper issued to finance the Pall Acquisition.

(3) The net proceeds, after underwriting discounts and commissions and offering expenses, of approximately $2.0 billion from these notes

were used to repay a portion of the commercial paper issued to finance the Pall Acquisition.

(4) The net proceeds, after offering expenses, of approximately ¥29.9 billion (approximately $262 million based on currency exchange rates as

of the date of issuance) from these notes were used to repay a portion of the commercial paper borrowings issued to finance the Pall
Acquisition.

(5) In connection with the Pall Acquisition, the Company acquired senior unsecured notes previously issued by Pall with an aggregate

principal amount of $375 million.  In accordance with accounting for business combinations, the Assumed Pall Notes were recorded at
their fair value of $417 million on the date of acquisition and for accounting purposes, interest charges on these notes recorded in the
Company’s Consolidated Statement of Earnings reflect an effective interest rate of approximately 2.9% per year.

LYONs

In 2001, the Company issued $830 million (value at maturity) in LYONs.  The net proceeds to the Company were $505 million, 
of which approximately $100 million was used to pay down debt and the balance was used for general corporate purposes, 
including acquisitions.  The LYONs originally carry a yield to maturity of 2.375% (with contingent interest payable as 
described below).  Pursuant to the terms of the indenture that governs the Company’s LYONs, effective as of the record date of 
the distribution of the Fortive shares, the conversion ratio of the LYONs was adjusted so that each $1,000 of principal amount 
at maturity may be converted into 38.1998 shares of Danaher common stock at any time on or before the maturity date of 
January 22, 2021.

81

During the year ended December 31, 2016, holders of certain of the Company’s LYONs converted such LYONs into an 
aggregate of approximately 250 thousand shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.01 per share.  The Company’s 
deferred tax liability associated with the book and tax basis difference in the converted LYONs of $3 million was transferred to 
additional paid-in capital as a result of the conversions.

As of December 31, 2016, an aggregate of approximately 21 million shares of the Company’s common stock had been issued 
upon conversion of LYONs.  As of December 31, 2016, the accreted value of the outstanding LYONs was lower than the traded 
market value of the underlying common stock issuable upon conversion.  The Company may redeem all or a portion of the 
LYONs for cash at any time at scheduled redemption prices.

Under the terms of the LYONs, the Company pays contingent interest to the holders of LYONs during any six-month period 
from January 23 to July 22 and from July 23 to January 22 if the average market price of a LYON for a specified measurement 
period equals 120% or more of the sum of the issue price and accrued original issue discount for such LYON.  The amount of 
contingent interest to be paid with respect to any quarterly period is equal to the higher of either 0.0315% of the bonds’ average 
market price during the specified measurement period or the amount of the cash dividend paid on Danaher’s common stock 
during such quarterly period multiplied by the number of shares issuable upon conversion of a LYON.  The Company paid $1 
million, $1 million and $2 million of contingent interest on the LYONs for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 
and 2014, respectively.  Except for the contingent interest described above, the Company will not pay interest on the LYONs 
prior to maturity.

Long-Term Indebtedness Related to the Fortive Separation

In June 2016, the Company received net cash distributions of approximately $3.0 billion from Fortive as consideration for the 
Company’s contribution of assets to Fortive in connection with the Separation.  Fortive financed these cash payments through 
issuance of approximately $3.4 billion of debt, consisting of $500 million aggregate principal amount of borrowings under a 
three-year, senior unsecured term loan facility with variable interest rates (the “Term Loan Facility”), $393 million of 
commercial paper borrowings supported by a five-year, $1.5 billion senior unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving 
Credit Facility” and together with the Term Loan Facility the “Fortive Credit Facilities”), $300 million aggregate principal 
amount of 1.8% senior unsecured notes due 2019, $750 million aggregate principal amount of 2.35% senior unsecured notes 
due 2021, $900 million aggregate principal amount of 3.15% senior unsecured notes due 2026 and $550 million aggregate 
principal amount of 4.3% senior unsecured notes due 2046 (collectively, the “Fortive Debt”).  Danaher initially guaranteed the 
Fortive Debt, and the guarantee terminated effective as of the Distribution Date.  As of July 2, 2016 in connection with the 
Separation, the Fortive Debt was transferred to Fortive and is no longer reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial 
statements. 

2016 Long-Term Debt Repayments

The Company used a portion of the proceeds from the Fortive Distribution to repay the $500 million aggregate principal 
amount of 2016 Notes that matured in June 2016 and to redeem approximately $1.9 billion in aggregate principal amount of 
outstanding indebtedness in August 2016 (consisting of the Redeemed Notes).  Danaher also paid an aggregate of $188 million 
in make-whole premiums in connection with the August 2016 redemptions, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  The payment of 
these make-whole premiums, net of certain deferred gains of $9 million, are reflected as a loss on early extinguishment of 
borrowings in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  The Company has used and intends to use the balance 
of the cash proceeds it received from Fortive to fund certain of the Company’s regular, quarterly cash dividends to 
shareholders. 

The Company repaid the CHF 120 million aggregate principal amount of the 2016 Bonds upon their maturity in October 2016 
using available cash.

Covenants and Redemption Provisions Applicable to Notes

With respect to the 2020 Assumed Pall Notes, the 2019, 2022 and 2025 Euronotes and the 2018, 2020, 2025 and 2045 U.S. 
Notes, at any time prior to the applicable maturity date (or in certain cases three months prior to the maturity date), the 
Company may redeem the applicable series of notes in whole or in part, by paying the principal amount and the “make-whole” 
premium specified in the applicable indenture, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  With respect to each of the 2017, 2023 and 
2028 CHF Bonds at any time after 85% or more of the applicable bonds have been redeemed or purchased and canceled, the 
Company may redeem some or all of the remaining bonds for their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest.  With 
respect to the 2017, 2019, 2022 and 2025 Euronotes and the 2017, 2023 and 2028 CHF Bonds, the Company may redeem such 
notes and bonds upon the occurrence of specified, adverse changes in tax laws, or interpretations under such laws, at a 
redemption price equal to the principal amount of the bonds to be redeemed.

82

If a change of control triggering event occurs with respect to any of the 2020 Assumed Pall Notes, the 2017, 2019, 2022 and 
2025 Euronotes, the 2018, 2020, 2025 and 2045 U.S. Notes or the 2017, 2023 and 2028 CHF Bonds, each holder of such notes 
may require the Company to repurchase some or all of such notes and bonds at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal 
amount of the notes and bonds, plus accrued and unpaid interest.  A change of control triggering event means the occurrence of 
both a change of control and a rating event, each as defined in the applicable indenture or comparable governing document.  
Except in connection with a change of control triggering event, the Company does not have any credit rating downgrade 
triggers that would accelerate the maturity of a material amount of outstanding debt.

The respective indentures under which the above-described notes and bonds were issued contain customary covenants 
including, for example, limits on the incurrence of secured debt and sale/leaseback transactions.  None of these covenants are 
considered restrictive to the Company’s operations and as of December 31, 2016, the Company was in compliance with all of 
its debt covenants.

Other

The Company’s minimum principal payments for the next five years are as follows ($ in millions):

2017

2018

2019
2020

2021

Thereafter

$

2,594.8

496.4

627.2
4,899.2

323.0

3,328.4

The Company made interest payments of $212 million, $126 million and $118 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

NOTE 10.  PENSION BENEFIT PLANS

The Company has noncontributory defined benefit pension plans which cover certain of its U.S. employees.  During 2012, all 
remaining benefit accruals under the U.S. plans ceased.  The Company also has noncontributory defined benefit pension plans 
which cover certain of its non-U.S. employees, and under certain of these plans, benefit accruals continue.  In general, the 
Company’s policy is to fund these plans based on considerations relating to legal requirements, underlying asset returns, the 
plan’s funded status, the anticipated tax deductibility of the contribution, local practices, market conditions, interest rates and 
other factors.

83

The following sets forth the funded status of the U.S. and non-U.S. plans as of the most recent actuarial valuations using 
measurement dates of December 31 ($ in millions):

Change in pension benefit obligation:

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

Service cost

Interest cost

Employee contributions

Benefits and other expenses paid

Acquisitions and other

Actuarial loss (gain)

Amendments, settlements and curtailments

Foreign exchange rate impact

Benefit obligation at end of year

Change in plan assets:

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

Actual return on plan assets

Employer contributions

Employee contributions

Amendments and settlements

Benefits and other expenses paid

Acquisitions

Foreign exchange rate impact

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

Funded status

U.S. Pension Benefits

Non-U.S. Pension Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

$

2,603.9

$

2,484.7

$

1,449.3

$

1,171.7

9.0

89.7

—
(204.8)
(7.4)
67.7

—

—

9.6

101.1

—
(192.9)
324.9
(112.5)
(11.0)
—

2,558.1

2,603.9

1,892.6

122.7

57.7

—

—
(204.8)
—

—

1,886.3
(21.3)
49.4

—

—
(192.9)
171.1

—

1,868.2
(689.9) $

1,892.6
(711.3) $

$

36.4

32.8

8.6
(48.4)
—

174.1
(25.9)
(133.9)
1,493.0

1,025.9

134.3

43.5

8.6
(7.3)
(48.4)
—
(113.7)
1,042.9
(450.1) $

42.0

29.4

8.2
(36.7)
431.4
(42.3)
(79.6)
(74.8)
1,449.3

747.6

11.1

42.2

8.2
(57.0)
(36.7)
355.8
(45.3)
1,025.9
(423.4)

Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at date of measurement:

Discount rate

Rate of compensation increase

Components of net periodic pension cost (benefit):

U.S. Plans

Non-U.S. Plans

2016

2015

2016

2015

4.1%

4.0%

4.4%

4.0%

1.8%

2.9%

2.6%

2.9%

($ in millions)
Service cost

Interest cost

Expected return on plan assets

Amortization of prior service credit

Amortization of net loss
Curtailment and settlement gains recognized
Net periodic pension (benefit) cost

U.S. Pension Benefits

Non-U.S. Pension Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

$

$

9.0

$

9.6

$

36.4

$

89.7
(132.6)
—

24.6
(0.7)
(10.0) $

101.1
(136.0)
—

28.9
(9.3)
(5.7) $

32.8
(40.2)
(0.3)
7.8
(0.3)
36.2

$

42.0

29.4
(34.2)
(0.1)
9.9
(0.8)
46.2

Net periodic pension (benefits) costs are included in cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses in the 
accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

84

Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic pension cost (benefit) at date of measurement:

Discount rate

Expected long-term return on plan assets

Rate of compensation increase

U.S. Plans

Non-U.S. Plans

2016

2015

2016

2015

4.4%

7.0%

N/A

4.0%

7.5%

N/A

2.6%

4.1%

2.9%

2.3%

3.9%

3.0%

The discount rate reflects the market rate on December 31 for high-quality fixed-income investments with maturities 
corresponding to the Company’s benefit obligations and is subject to change each year.  For non-U.S. plans, rates appropriate 
for each plan are determined based on investment-grade instruments with maturities approximately equal to the average 
expected benefit payout under the plan.  During 2016, the Company updated the mortality assumptions used to estimate the 
projected benefit obligation to reflect updated mortality tables.

Effective December 31, 2015, the Company changed its estimate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic 
benefit cost for its U.S. and non-U.S. pension and other postretirement benefit plans.  Previously, the Company estimated the 
service and interest cost components utilizing a single weighted-average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to 
measure the benefit obligation.  The new estimate utilizes a full yield curve approach in the estimation of these components by 
applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the benefit obligation to their underlying 
projected cash flows.  The new estimate provides a more precise measurement of service and interest costs by improving the 
correlation between projected benefit cash flows and their corresponding spot rates.  The change does not affect the 
measurement of the Company’s U.S. and non-U.S. pension and other postretirement benefit obligations and it is accounted for 
as a change in accounting estimate that is inseparable from a change in accounting principle, which is applied prospectively.  
For the year ended December 31, 2016, the change in estimate reduced U.S. and non-U.S. pension and other postretirement net 
periodic benefit plan cost by $25 million when compared to the prior methodology.

Following the Pall Acquisition, the Company froze and discontinued all future accruals to the Pall pension plan, which 
necessitated a remeasurement of the plan obligations and resulted in a curtailment gain of $11 million ($9 million, net of tax) in 
2015.

Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2016 are the following amounts that have not 
yet been recognized in net periodic pension cost: unrecognized prior service credits of $2 million ($1 million, net of tax) and 
unrecognized actuarial losses of approximately $1.0 billion ($649 million, net of tax).  The unrecognized losses and prior 
service credits, net, is calculated as the difference between the actuarially determined projected benefit obligation and the value 
of the plan assets less accrued pension costs as of December 31, 2016.  The prior service credits and actuarial losses included in 
accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and expected to be recognized in net periodic pension costs during the year 
ending December 31, 2017 is $0.3 million ($0.2 million, net of tax) and $34 million ($22 million, net of tax), respectively.  No 
plan assets are expected to be returned to the Company during the year ending December 31, 2017.

Selection of Expected Rate of Return on Assets

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company used an expected long-term rate of return assumption of 7.0% for its U.S. 
defined benefit pension plan while for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company used an expected long-term 
rate of return assumption of 7.5% for its U.S. defined benefit pension plan.  The Company intends to use an expected long-term 
rate of return assumption of 7.0% for 2017 for its U.S. plan.  This expected rate of return reflects the asset allocation of the 
plan, and is based primarily on broad, publicly traded equity and fixed-income indices and forward-looking estimates of active 
portfolio and investment management.  Long-term rate of return on asset assumptions for the non-U.S. plans were determined 
on a plan-by-plan basis based on the composition of assets and ranged from 1.1% to 5.8% and 1.1% to 6.0% in 2016 and 2015, 
respectively, with a weighted average rate of return assumption of 4.1% and 3.9% in 2016 and 2015, respectively.  

Plan Assets

The U.S. plan’s goal is to maintain between 60% and 70% of its assets in equity portfolios, which are invested in individual 
equity securities or funds that are expected to mirror broad market returns for equity securities or in assets with characteristics 
similar to equity investments, such as venture capital funds and partnerships.  Asset holdings are periodically rebalanced when 
equity holdings are outside this range.  The balance of the U.S. plan asset portfolio is invested in bond funds, real estate funds, 
various absolute and real return funds and private equity funds.  Non-U.S. plan assets are invested in various insurance 
contracts, equity and debt securities as determined by the administrator of each plan.  The value of the plan assets directly 
affects the funded status of the Company’s pension plans recorded in the consolidated financial statements.

85

The Company has some investments that are valued using Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as the practical expedient.  In addition, 
some of the investments valued using NAV as the practical expedient have limits on their redemption to monthly, quarterly, 
semiannually or annually and require up to 90 days prior written notice.  These investments valued using NAV consist of 
mutual funds, common collective trusts, venture capital funds, partnerships, and other private investments, which allow the 
Company to allocate investments across a broad array of types of funds and diversify the portfolio.

The fair values of the Company’s pension plan assets for both the U.S. and non-U.S. plans as of December 31, 2016, by asset 
category were as follows ($ in millions):

Cash and equivalents

Equity securities:

Common stock

Preferred stock

Fixed income securities:

Corporate bonds

Government issued

Mutual funds

Insurance contracts

Total
Investments measured at NAV (a):
Mutual funds

Insurance contracts

Common collective trusts

Venture capital, partnerships and other private
investments

Total assets at fair value

Quoted Prices in
Active Market
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

Total

$

23.7

$

— $

— $

23.7

347.5

4.3

—

—

315.1

—

23.4

—

62.9

82.9

162.6

260.3

$

690.6

$

592.1

$

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

370.9

4.3

62.9

82.9

477.7

260.3

1,282.7

289.1

70.2

697.8

571.3

2,911.1

$

(a)  The fair value amounts presented in the table above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the total plan assets.

86

The fair values of the Company’s pension plan assets for both the U.S. and non-U.S. plans as of December 31, 2015, by asset 
category were as follows ($ in millions):

Cash and equivalents

Equity securities:

Common stock

Preferred stock

Fixed income securities:

Corporate bonds

Government issued

Mutual funds

Insurance contracts

Total
Investments measured at NAV (a):
Mutual funds
Insurance contracts

Common collective trusts

Venture capital, partnerships and other private
investments

Total assets at fair value

Quoted Prices in
Active Market
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

Total

$

20.1

$

— $

— $

20.1

249.4

2.6

—

—

357.4

—

24.5

—

98.8

80.5

188.8

232.8

$

629.5

$

625.4

$

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

273.9

2.6

98.8

80.5

546.2

232.8

1,254.9

257.6
70.9

742.5

592.6

2,918.5

$

(a)  The fair value amounts presented in the table above are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the total plan assets.

Preferred stock and common stock traded on an active market, as well as mutual funds are valued at the quoted closing price 
reported on the active market on which the individual securities are traded.  Preferred stock, common stock, corporate bonds, 
U.S. government securities and mutual funds that are not traded on an active market are valued at quoted prices reported by 
investment brokers and dealers based on the underlying terms of the security and comparison to similar securities traded on an 
active market.

Common/collective trusts are valued based on the plan’s interest, represented by investment units, in the underlying 
investments held within the trust that are traded in an active market by the trustee.

Venture capital, partnerships and other private investments are valued using the NAV based on the information provided by the 
asset fund managers, which reflects the plan’s share of the fair value of the net assets of the investment.  Depending on the 
nature of the assets, the underlying investments are valued using a combination of either discounted cash flows, earnings and 
market multiples, third-party appraisals or through reference to the quoted market prices of the underlying investments held by 
the venture, partnership or private entity where available.  Valuation adjustments reflect changes in operating results, financial 
condition, or prospects of the applicable portfolio company.

The methods described above may produce a fair value estimate that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective 
of future fair values.  Furthermore, while the Company believes the valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with the 
methods used by other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of 
certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.

Expected Contributions

During 2016, the Company contributed $58 million to its U.S. defined benefit pension plan and $44 million to its non-U.S. 
defined benefit pension plans.  During 2017, the Company’s cash contribution requirements for its U.S. and its non-U.S. 
defined benefit pension plans are expected to be approximately $35 million and $40 million, respectively.

87

The following sets forth benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, expected to be paid by the 
plans in the periods indicated ($ in millions):

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022 – 2026

Other Matters

U.S. Pension
Plans

Non-U.S.
Pension Plans

All Pension
Plans

$

177.1

$

177.3

177.2

179.2

179.8

860.7

$

43.1

49.5

46.7

46.4

51.9

220.2

226.8

223.9

225.6

231.7

279.9

1,140.6

Substantially all employees not covered by defined benefit plans are covered by defined contribution plans, which generally 
provide for Company funding based on a percentage of compensation.

A limited number of the Company’s subsidiaries participate in multiemployer defined benefit and contribution plans, primarily 
outside of the United States, that require the Company to periodically contribute funds to the plan.  The risks of participating in 
a multiemployer plan differ from the risks of participating in a single-employer plan in the following respects: (1) assets 
contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating 
employers, (2) if a participating employer ceases contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be required 
to be borne by the remaining participating employers and (3) if the Company elects to stop participating in the plan, the 
Company may be required to pay the plan an amount based on the unfunded status of the plan.  None of the multiemployer 
plans in which the Company’s subsidiaries participate are considered to be quantitatively or qualitatively significant, either 
individually or in the aggregate.  In addition, contributions made to these plans during 2016, 2015 and 2014 were not 
considered significant, either individually or in the aggregate.

Expense for all defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans amounted to $177 million, $154 million and $132 
million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

NOTE 11.  OTHER POSTRETIREMENT EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for some of its 
retired employees in the United States.  Certain employees may become eligible for these benefits as they reach normal 
retirement age while working for the Company.

The following sets forth the funded status of the domestic plans as of the most recent actuarial valuations using measurement 
dates of December 31 ($ in millions):

Change in benefit obligation:

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

Service cost

Interest cost

Amendments, curtailments and other

Actuarial gain

Acquisitions

Retiree contributions

Benefits paid
Benefit obligation at end of year

Change in plan assets:

Fair value of plan assets

Funded status

88

2016

2015

$

193.4

$

0.7

6.6
(6.5)
(5.0)
—

3.2
(17.8)
174.6

221.4

1.1

8.4
(3.6)
(22.7)
5.0

3.6
(19.8)
193.4

—
(174.6) $

—
(193.4)

$

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, $158 million and $175 million, respectively, of the total underfunded status of the plan 
was recognized as long-term accrued postretirement liability since it was not expected to be funded within one year.

Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at date of measurement:

Discount rate

Medical trend rate – initial

Medical trend rate – grading period

Medical trend rate – ultimate

2016

2015

3.9%

6.5%

4.2%

6.8%

21 years

22 years

4.5%

4.5%

Effect of a one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates:

($ in millions)
Effect on the total of service and interest cost components

Effect on postretirement medical benefit obligation

1% Increase

1% Decrease

$

$

0.3

5.3

(0.3)
(4.7)

The medical trend rate used to determine the postretirement benefit obligation was 6.5% for 2016.  The rate decreases gradually 
to an ultimate rate of 4.5% in 2037 and remains at that level thereafter.  The trend rate is a significant factor in determining the 
amounts reported.

Components of net periodic benefit cost:

($ in millions)
Service cost

Interest cost

Amortization of net loss

Amortization of prior service credit

Net periodic benefit cost

2016

2015

$

$

0.7

6.6

—
(3.1)
4.2

$

$

1.1

8.4

1.0
(3.1)
7.4

Net periodic benefit costs are included in cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2016 are the following amounts that have not 
yet been recognized in net periodic benefit cost: unrecognized prior service credits of $24 million ($15 million, net of tax) and 
unrecognized actuarial losses of $14 million ($9 million, net of tax).  The unrecognized losses and prior service credits, net, is 
calculated as the difference between the actuarially determined projected benefit obligation and the value of the plan assets less 
accrued benefit costs as of December 31, 2016.  The prior service credits and actuarial losses included in accumulated other 
comprehensive income (loss) and expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit costs during the year ending December 31, 
2017 is $3 million ($2 million, net of tax) and $0.1 million ($0.1 million, net of tax), respectively.

The following sets forth benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, expected to be paid in the 
periods indicated ($ in millions):

2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022 – 2026

$

16.7
16.3
15.8
15.1
14.4
61.4

89

NOTE 12.  INCOME TAXES 

Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes for the years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

United States

International

Total

2016

2015

2014

$

$

647.7

1,963.6

2,611.3

$

$

505.5

1,533.9

2,039.4

$

$

455.7

1,630.5

2,086.2

The provision for income taxes from continuing operations for the years ended December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

Current:

Federal U.S.

Non-U.S.

State and local

Deferred:

Federal U.S.
Non-U.S.

State and local
Income tax provision

2016

2015

2014

$

237.2

$

213.4

$

542.9

61.7

(237.5)
(104.2)
(42.2)
457.9

$

273.0
(9.5)

(83.8)
(121.5)
21.1

$

292.7

$

23.6

241.2
(19.2)

206.9
(43.9)
38.9

447.5

90

During 2015 the Company adopted ASU 2015-17, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes 
(“ASU 2015-17”) on a prospective basis; therefore, all deferred tax assets and liabilities have been classified as noncurrent in 
the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Noncurrent deferred tax assets and noncurrent deferred tax liabilities are 
included in other assets and other long-term liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Net 
deferred income tax liabilities for discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $87 million and is 
reflected in current assets, discontinued operations and other long-term liabilities, discontinued operations in the accompanying 
Consolidated Balance Sheet.  Deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 were as follows ($ in millions):

Deferred tax assets:

Allowance for doubtful accounts

Inventories

Pension and postretirement benefits

Environmental and regulatory compliance

Other accruals and prepayments

Stock-based compensation expense

Tax credit and loss carryforwards

Valuation allowances
Total deferred tax asset

Deferred tax liabilities:

Property, plant and equipment

Insurance, including self-insurance

Basis difference in LYONs

Goodwill and other intangibles

Unrealized gains on marketable securities

Total deferred tax liability

Net deferred tax liability

2016

2015

$

22.4

$

102.8

392.4

29.9

211.1

89.3

1,095.9
(306.5)
1,637.3

(41.4)
(786.4)
(13.1)
(3,645.3)
(2.9)
(4,489.1)
(2,851.8) $

$

27.7

107.1

415.7

31.7

405.2

128.8

1,075.4
(215.0)
1,976.6

(194.1)
(1,107.3)
(9.1)
(3,704.8)
(68.0)
(5,083.3)
(3,106.7)

The Company evaluates the future realizability of tax credits and loss carryforwards considering the anticipated future earnings 
of the Company’s subsidiaries as well as tax planning strategies in the associated jurisdictions.  Deferred taxes associated with 
U.S. entities consist of net deferred tax liabilities of approximately $2.5 billion and $2.7 billion as of December 31, 2016 and 
2015, respectively.  Deferred taxes associated with non-U.S. entities consist of net deferred tax liabilities of $374 million and 
$367 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  During 2016, the Company’s valuation allowance increased by 
$92 million, $21 million due to acquisitions and the remainder due to certain tax benefits triggered in 2016 that are not 
expected to be realized.

The effective income tax rate from continuing operations for the years ended December 31 varies from the U.S. statutory 
federal income tax rate as follows:

Statutory federal income tax rate

Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:

State income taxes (net of federal income tax benefit)

Foreign income taxed at lower rate than U.S. statutory rate

Resolution and expiration of statutes of limitation of uncertain tax positions

Permanent foreign exchange losses

Research credits, uncertain tax positions and other
Effective income tax rate

Percentage of Pretax Earnings

2016

2015

2014

35.0 %

35.0 %

35.0 %

0.6 %

(10.2)%

(3.1)%
(8.2)%

3.4 %

17.5 %

0.7 %

(17.1)%

(0.7)%
(4.6)%

1.1 %

14.4 %

0.5 %

(18.4)%

2.9 %
— %

1.5 %

21.5 %

91

The Company’s effective tax rate for each of 2016, 2015 and 2014 differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35.0% due 
principally to the Company’s earnings outside the United States that are indefinitely reinvested and taxed at rates lower than the 
U.S. federal statutory rate.

•

•

•

The effective tax rate of 17.5% in 2016 includes 350 basis points of net tax benefits from permanent foreign exchange
losses and the release of reserves upon the expiration of statutes of limitation and audit settlements, partially offset by
income tax expense related to repatriation of earnings and legal entity realignments associated with the Separation and
changes in estimates associated with prior period uncertain tax positions.

The effective tax rate of 14.4% in 2015 includes 290 basis points of net tax benefits from permanent foreign exchange
losses, releases of valuation allowances related to foreign operating losses and the release of reserves upon the
expiration of statutes of limitation, partially offset by changes in estimates associated with prior period uncertain tax
positions.

The effective tax rate of 21.5% in 2014 includes 250 basis points of tax expense for audit settlements in various
jurisdictions, partially offset by the release of valuation allowances and the release of reserves upon the expiration of
statutes of limitation.

The Company made income tax payments related to both continuing and discontinued operations of $767 million, $584 million 
and $569 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  Current income taxes payable related to both continuing and 
discontinued operations has been reduced by $99 million, $147 million, and $82 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, 
for tax deductions attributable to stock-based compensation, of which, the excess tax benefit over the amount recorded for 
financial reporting purposes for both continuing and discontinued operations was $50 million, $88 million and $50 million, 
respectively.  The excess tax benefits realized have been recorded as increases to additional paid-in capital and are reflected as a 
financing cash inflow in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Included in deferred income taxes related to continuing operations as of December 31, 2016 are tax benefits for U.S. and non-
U.S. net operating loss carryforwards totaling $757 million ($240 million of which the Company does not expect to realize and 
have corresponding valuation allowances).  Certain of the losses can be carried forward indefinitely and others can be carried 
forward to various dates from 2017 through 2036.  In addition, the Company had general business and foreign tax credit 
carryforwards related to continuing operations of $339 million ($24 million of which the Company does not expect to realize 
and have corresponding valuation allowances) as of December 31, 2016, which can be carried forward to various dates from 
2017 to 2025.  In addition, as of December 31, 2016, the Company had $42 million of valuation allowances related to other 
deferred tax asset balances that are not more likely than not of being realized.

As of December 31, 2016, gross unrecognized tax benefits related to continuing operations totaled $992 million ($933 million, 
net of the impact of $179 million of indirect tax benefits offset by $120 million associated with potential interest and penalties).  
As of December 31, 2015, gross unrecognized tax benefits related to both continuing and discontinued operations totaled $990 
million ($905 million, net of the impact of $233 million of indirect tax benefits offset by $148 million associated with potential 
interest and penalties).  The Company recognized approximately $47 million, $39 million and $44 million in potential interest 
and penalties related to both continuing and discontinued operations associated with uncertain tax positions during 2016, 2015 
and 2014, respectively.  To the extent unrecognized tax benefits (including interest and penalties) are not assessed with respect 
to uncertain tax positions, approximately $933 million would be reduced and reflected as a reduction of the overall income tax 
provision in future periods.  Unrecognized tax benefits and associated accrued interest and penalties are included in taxes, 
income and other accrued expenses as detailed in Note 8.

92

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding amounts accrued for potential 
interest and penalties related to both continuing and discontinued operations, is as follows ($ in millions):

2016

2015

2014

Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year

$

990.2

$

728.5

$

Additions based on tax positions related to the current year

Additions for tax positions of prior years

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

Acquisitions, divestitures and other

Lapse of statute of limitations

Settlements

Effect of foreign currency translation

Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year

80.0

154.3
(7.0)
(41.5)
(124.0)
(45.3)
(14.5)
992.2

$

73.3

135.3
(10.0)
140.6
(26.3)
(18.9)
(32.3)
990.2

$

$

689.0

91.5

172.5
(43.7)
36.6
(36.3)
(149.7)
(31.4)
728.5

The Company conducts business globally, and files numerous consolidated and separate income tax returns in the United States 
federal, state and foreign jurisdictions.  The countries in which the Company has a material presence that have significantly 
lower statutory tax rates than the United States include China, Denmark, Germany, Singapore, Switzerland and the United 
Kingdom.  The Company’s ability to obtain a tax benefit from lower statutory tax rates outside of the United States depends on 
its levels of taxable income in these foreign countries and the amount of foreign earnings which are indefinitely reinvested in 
those countries.  The Company believes that a change in the statutory tax rate of any individual foreign country would not have 
a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements given the geographic dispersion of the Company’s taxable 
income.

The Company and its subsidiaries are routinely examined by various domestic and international taxing authorities.  The Internal 
Revenue Service (“IRS”) has completed substantially all of the examinations of the Company’s federal income tax returns 
through 2010 and is currently examining certain of the Company’s federal income tax returns for 2011 through 2013.  In 
addition, the Company has subsidiaries in Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, 
India, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and various other countries, states and provinces that 
are currently under audit for years ranging from 2004 through 2015.

Tax authorities in Denmark have raised significant issues related to interest accrued by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.  
On December 10, 2013, the Company received assessments from the Danish tax authority (“SKAT”) totaling approximately 
DKK 1.4 billion (approximately $195 million based on exchange rates as of December 31, 2016) including interest through 
December 31, 2016, imposing withholding tax relating to interest accrued in Denmark on borrowings from certain of the 
Company’s subsidiaries for the years 2004-2009.  The Company is currently in discussions with SKAT and anticipates 
receiving an assessment for years 2010-2012 totaling approximately DKK 814 million (approximately $115 million based on 
exchange rates as of December 31, 2016).  Management believes the positions the Company has taken in Denmark are in 
accordance with the relevant tax laws and is vigorously defending its positions.  The Company appealed these assessments with 
the National Tax Tribunal in 2014 and intends on pursuing this matter through the European Court of Justice should this appeal 
be unsuccessful.  The ultimate resolution of this matter is uncertain, could take many years, and could result in a material 
adverse impact to the Company’s financial statements, including its effective tax rate.

As previously disclosed, German tax authorities had raised issues related to the deductibility and taxability of interest accrued 
by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries.  In the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company entered into a settlement agreement with 
the German tax authorities to resolve these open matters through 2014.  The Company recorded €49 million (approximately 
$60 million based on exchange rates as of December 31, 2014) of expense for taxes and interest related to this settlement 
during the fourth quarter of 2014.

Management estimates that it is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits related to continuing 
operations may be reduced by approximately $250 million within 12 months as a result of resolution of worldwide tax matters, 
payments of tax audit settlements and/or statute expirations.

The Company operates in various non-U.S. jurisdictions where income tax incentives and rulings have been granted for 
specific periods of time.  In Switzerland, the Company has various tax rulings and tax holiday arrangements which reduce the 
overall effective tax rate of the Company.  The tax holidays expire between 2018 and 2020.  In Singapore, the Company 
operates under various tax incentive agreements that provide for reduced tax rates.  Subject to the Company satisfying certain 
requirements, the agreements expire in the years 2019 and 2022.  The Company has satisfied the conditions enumerated in 

93

these agreements to date.  Included in the consolidated financial statements are tax benefits of $61 million, $33 million, and 
$16 million (or $0.09, $0.05 and $0.02 per diluted share) for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively, from these rulings and tax 
holidays.

As of December 31, 2016, the Company held $648 million of cash and cash equivalents outside of the United States.  While 
repatriation of some cash held outside the United States may be restricted by local laws, most of the Company’s foreign cash 
balances could be repatriated to the United States but, under current law, could be subject to U.S. federal income taxes, less 
applicable foreign tax credits.  For most of its foreign subsidiaries, the Company makes an election regarding the amount of 
earnings intended for indefinite reinvestment, with the balance available to be repatriated to the United States.  A deferred tax 
liability has been accrued for the funds that are available to be repatriated to the United States.  No provisions for U.S. income 
taxes have been made with respect to earnings that are planned to be reinvested indefinitely outside the United States, and the 
amount of U.S. income taxes that may be applicable to such earnings is not readily determinable given the various tax planning 
alternatives the Company could employ if it repatriated these earnings.  The cash that the Company’s foreign subsidiaries hold 
for indefinite reinvestment is generally used to finance foreign operations and investments, including acquisitions.  As of 
December 31, 2016, the total amount of earnings planned to be reinvested indefinitely and the basis difference in investments 
outside of the United States for which deferred taxes have not been provided was approximately $23.0 billion.

NOTE 13.  NONOPERATING INCOME (EXPENSE) 

The Company received $265 million of cash proceeds from the sale of certain marketable equity securities during 2016.  The 
Company recorded a pretax gain related to this sale of $223 million ($140 million after-tax or $0.20 per diluted share).

In the third quarter of 2016, the Company paid $188 million of make-whole premiums associated with the early extinguishment 
of the Redeemed Notes.  The Company recorded a loss on extinguishment of these borrowings, net of certain deferred gains, of 
$179 million ($112 million after-tax or $0.16 per diluted share).

During 2015, the Company received cash proceeds of $43 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $12 million ($8 million after-tax or $0.01 per diluted share).

During 2014, the Company received cash proceeds of $167 million from the sale of certain marketable equity securities and 
recorded a pretax gain related to these sales of $123 million ($77 million after-tax or $0.11 per diluted share).

NOTE 14.  RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER RELATED CHARGES 

During 2016, the Company recorded pretax restructuring and other related charges totaling $152 million.  Substantially all 
restructuring activities initiated in 2016 were completed by December 31, 2016 resulting in $111 million of employee 
severance and related charges, $30 million of facility exit and other related charges and $11 million related to an impairment of 
a trade name within the Dental segment.  The Company expects substantially all cash payments associated with remaining 
termination benefits will be paid during 2017.  During 2015, the Company recorded pretax restructuring and other related 
charges totaling $98 million.  Substantially all planned restructuring activities related to the 2015 plans were completed by 
December 31, 2015 resulting in approximately $81 million of employee severance and related charges and $17 million of 
facility exit and other related charges.  During 2014, the Company recorded pretax restructuring and other related charges 
totaling $102 million.  Substantially all planned restructuring activities related to the 2014 plans were completed by 
December 31, 2014 resulting in approximately $79 million of employee severance and related charges and $23 million of 
facility exit and other related charges.

The nature of the Company’s restructuring and related activities initiated in 2016, 2015 and 2014 were broadly consistent 
throughout the Company’s reportable segments and focused on improvements in operational efficiency through targeted 
workforce reductions and facility consolidations and closures.  These costs were incurred to position the Company to provide 
superior products and services to its customers in a cost efficient manner, and taking into consideration broad economic 
uncertainties.

In conjunction with the closing of facilities, certain inventory was written off as unusable in future operating locations.  This 
inventory consisted primarily of component parts and raw materials, which were either redundant to inventory at the facilities 
being merged or were not economically feasible to relocate since the inventory was purchased to operate on equipment and 
tooling which was not being relocated.  In addition, asset impairment charges have been recorded to reduce the carrying 
amounts of the long-lived assets that will be sold or disposed of to their estimated fair values.  Charges for the asset impairment 
reduce the carrying amount of the long-lived assets to their estimated salvage value in connection with the decision to dispose 
of such assets.

94

Restructuring and other related charges recorded for the years ended December 31 by segment were as follows ($ in millions):

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

2016

2015

2014

$

$

$

40.5

62.2

34.3

15.4

152.4

$

27.5

33.6

25.3

11.1

97.5

$

$

17.5

32.6

21.4

30.8

102.3

The table below summarizes the Company’s accrual balance and utilization by type of restructuring cost associated with the 
2016 and 2015 actions ($ in millions):

Balance, January 1, 2015

Costs incurred
Paid/settled
Balance, December 31, 2015
Costs incurred
Paid/settled
Balance, December 31, 2016

Employee
Severance and
Related

Facility Exit and
Related

Total

$

$

73.9
80.3
(88.6)
65.6
111.0
(131.3)
45.3

$

$

13.0
17.2
(16.3)
13.9
41.4
(43.5)
11.8

$

$

86.9
97.5
(104.9)
79.5
152.4
(174.8)
57.1

The restructuring and other related charges incurred during 2016 include cash charges of $140 million and $12 million of 
noncash charges.  The restructuring and other related charges incurred during 2015 and 2014 include cash charges of $94 
million and $92 million and $4 million and $10 million of noncash charges, respectively.  These charges are reflected in the 
following captions in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings ($ in millions):

Cost of sales

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Total

NOTE 15.  LEASES AND COMMITMENTS

2016

2015

2014

$

$

25.4

127.0

152.4

$

$

31.9

65.6

97.5

$

$

32.1

70.2

102.3

The Company’s operating leases extend for varying periods of time up to 20 years and, in some cases, contain renewal options 
that would extend existing terms beyond 20 years.  Total rent expense for all operating leases was $220 million, $209 million 
and $181 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.  

The Company’s future minimum rental payments for all operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms 
in excess of one year are as follows ($ in millions):

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021
Thereafter

$

187.0

148.6

118.5

88.4

60.6
137.9

The Company generally accrues estimated warranty costs at the time of sale.  In general, manufactured products are warranted 
against defects in material and workmanship when properly used for their intended purpose, installed correctly, and 
appropriately maintained.  Warranty periods depend on the nature of the product and range from 90 days up to the life of the 
product.  The amount of the accrued warranty liability is determined based on historical information such as past experience, 

95

product failure rates or number of units repaired, estimated cost of material and labor, and in certain instances estimated 
property damage.  The accrued warranty liability is reviewed on a quarterly basis and may be adjusted as additional information 
regarding expected warranty costs becomes known.

The following is a rollforward of the Company’s accrued warranty liability ($ in millions):

Balance, January 1

Accruals for warranties issued during the year

Settlements made

Additions due to acquisitions

Effect of foreign currency translation

Balance, December 31

2016

2015

$

$

73.8

$

62.3
(61.2)
1.4
(0.5)
75.8

$

73.0

58.9
(62.7)
7.8
(3.2)
73.8

NOTE 16.  LITIGATION AND CONTINGENCIES

The Company is, from time to time, subject to a variety of litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings incidental to its 
business (or the business operations of previously owned entities).  These matters primarily involve claims for damages arising 
out of the use of the Company’s products and services and claims relating to intellectual property matters, employment matters, 
tax matters, commercial disputes, competition and sales and trading practices, environmental matters, personal injury, insurance 
coverage and acquisition or divestiture-related matters, as well as regulatory investigations or enforcement.  The Company may 
also become subject to lawsuits as a result of past or future acquisitions or as a result of liabilities retained from, or 
representations, warranties or indemnities provided in connection with, divested businesses.  Some of these lawsuits may 
include claims for punitive, consequential and/or compensatory damages, as well as injunctive relief.  Based upon the 
Company’s experience, current information and applicable law, it does not believe it is reasonably possible that any amounts it 
may be required to pay in connection with litigation and other legal and regulatory proceedings in excess of its reserves as of 
December 31, 2016 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

While the Company maintains general, products, property, workers’ compensation, automobile, cargo, aviation, crime, 
fiduciary and directors’ and officers’ liability insurance (and has acquired rights under similar policies in connection with 
certain acquisitions) up to certain limits that cover certain of these claims, this insurance may be insufficient or unavailable to 
cover such losses.  For general, products and property liability and most other insured risks, the Company purchases outside 
insurance coverage only for severe losses and must establish and maintain reserves with respect to amounts within the self-
insured retention.  In addition, while the Company believes it is entitled to indemnification from third-parties for some of these 
claims, these rights may also be insufficient or unavailable to cover such losses.

The Company records a liability in the consolidated financial statements for loss contingencies when a loss is known or 
considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated.  If the reasonable estimate of a known or probable loss is a 
range, and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other, the minimum amount of the range is accrued.  If a 
loss does not meet the known or probable level but is reasonably possible and a loss or range of loss can be reasonably 
estimated, the estimated loss or range of loss is disclosed.  The Company’s reserves consist of specific reserves for individual 
claims and additional amounts for anticipated developments of these claims as well as for incurred but not yet reported claims.  
The specific reserves for individual known claims are quantified with the assistance of legal counsel and outside risk 
professionals where appropriate.  In addition, outside risk professionals assist in the determination of reserves for incurred but 
not yet reported claims through evaluation of the Company’s specific loss history, actual claims reported and industry trends 
among statistical and other factors.  Reserve estimates may be adjusted as additional information regarding a claim becomes 
known.  Because most contingencies are resolved over long periods of time, liabilities may change in the future due to new 
developments (including litigation developments, the discovery of new facts, changes in legislation and outcomes of similar 
cases), changes in assumptions or changes in the Company’s settlement strategy.  While the Company actively pursues 
financial recoveries from insurance providers and indemnifying parties, it does not recognize any recoveries until realized or 
until such time as a sustained pattern of collections is established related to historical matters of a similar nature and magnitude.  
If the Company’s self-insurance and litigation reserves prove inadequate, it would be required to incur an expense equal to the 
amount of the loss incurred in excess of the reserves, which would adversely affect the Company’s financial statements.

In addition, the Company’s operations, products and services are subject to environmental laws and regulations, which impose 
limitations on the discharge of pollutants into the environment, establish standards for the use, generation, treatment, storage 
and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes and impose end-of-life disposal and take-back programs.  A number of the 

96

Company’s operations involve the handling, manufacturing, use or sale of substances that are or could be classified as 
hazardous materials within the meaning of applicable laws.  The Company must also comply with various health and safety 
regulations in both the United States and abroad in connection with the Company’s operations.  Compliance with these laws 
and regulations has not had and, based on current information and the applicable laws and regulations currently in effect, is not 
expected to have a material effect on the Company’s capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position, and the Company 
does not anticipate material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities.

In addition to environmental compliance costs, the Company from time to time incurs costs related to alleged damages 
associated with past or current waste disposal practices or other hazardous materials handling practices.  For example, 
generators of hazardous substances found in disposal sites at which environmental problems are alleged to exist, as well as the 
current and former owners of those sites and certain other classes of persons, are subject to claims brought by state and federal 
regulatory agencies pursuant to statutory authority.  The Company has received notification from the U.S. Environmental 
Protection Agency, and from state and non-U.S. environmental agencies, that conditions at certain sites where the Company 
and others previously disposed of hazardous wastes and/or are or were property owners require clean-up and other possible 
remedial action, including sites where the Company has been identified as a potentially responsible party under U.S. federal 
and state environmental laws.  The Company has projects underway at a number of current and former facilities, in both the 
United States and abroad, to investigate and remediate environmental contamination resulting from past operations.  
Remediation activities generally relate to soil and/or groundwater contamination and may include pre-remedial activities such 
as fact-finding and investigation, risk assessment, feasibility study and/or design, as well as remediation actions such as 
contaminant removal, monitoring and/or installation, operation and maintenance of longer-term remediation systems.  The 
Company is also from time to time party to personal injury or other claims brought by private parties alleging injury due to the 
presence of, or exposure to, hazardous substances.

The Company has recorded a provision for environmental investigation and remediation and environmental-related claims with 
respect to sites owned or formerly owned by the Company and its subsidiaries and third-party sites where the Company has 
been determined to be a potentially responsible party.  The Company generally makes an assessment of the costs involved for 
its remediation efforts based on environmental studies, as well as its prior experience with similar sites.  The ultimate cost of 
site cleanup is difficult to predict given the uncertainties of the Company’s involvement in certain sites, uncertainties regarding 
the extent of the required cleanup, the availability of alternative cleanup methods, variations in the interpretation of applicable 
laws and regulations, the possibility of insurance recoveries with respect to certain sites and the fact that imposition of joint and 
several liability with right of contribution is possible under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and 
Liability Act of 1980 and other environmental laws and regulations.  If the Company determines that potential liability for a 
particular site or with respect to a personal injury claim is known or considered probable and reasonably estimable, the 
Company accrues the total estimated loss, including investigation and remediation costs, associated with the site or claim.  As 
of December 31, 2016, the Company had a reserve of $159 million for environmental matters which are known or considered 
probable and reasonably estimable (of which $126 million are noncurrent), which reflects the Company’s best estimate of the 
costs to be incurred with respect to such matters.

All reserves have been recorded without giving effect to any possible future third-party recoveries.  While the Company 
actively pursues insurance recoveries, as well as recoveries from other potentially responsible parties, it does not recognize any 
insurance recoveries for environmental liability claims until realized or until such time as a sustained pattern of collections is 
established related to historical matters of a similar nature and magnitude.

The Company’s Restated Certificate of Incorporation requires it to indemnify to the full extent authorized or permitted by law 
any person made, or threatened to be made a party to any action or proceeding by reason of his or her service as a director or 
officer of the Company, or by reason of serving at the request of the Company as a director or officer of any other entity, 
subject to limited exceptions.  Danaher’s Amended and Restated By-laws provide for similar indemnification rights.  In 
addition, Danaher has executed with each director and executive officer of Danaher Corporation an indemnification agreement 
which provides for substantially similar indemnification rights and under which Danaher has agreed to pay expenses in advance 
of the final disposition of any such indemnifiable proceeding.  While the Company maintains insurance for this type of liability, 
a significant deductible applies to this coverage and any such liability could exceed the amount of the insurance coverage.

As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company had approximately $799 million and $831 million, respectively, of 
guarantees consisting primarily of outstanding standby letters of credit, bank guarantees and performance and bid bonds.  These 
guarantees have been provided in connection with certain arrangements with vendors, customers, insurance providers, 
financing counterparties and governmental entities to secure the Company’s obligations and/or performance requirements 
related to specific transactions.  The Company believes that if the obligations under these instruments were triggered, it would 
not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

97

NOTE 17.  STOCK TRANSACTIONS AND STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

On July 16, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a repurchase program (the “Repurchase Program”) authorizing 
the repurchase of up to 20 million shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time on the open market or in privately 
negotiated transactions.  There is no expiration date for the Repurchase Program, and the timing and amount of any shares 
repurchased under the program will be determined by the Company’s management based on its evaluation of market conditions 
and other factors.  The Repurchase Program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.  Any repurchased shares will be 
available for use in connection with the Company’s equity compensation plans (or any successor plan) and for other corporate 
purposes.  As of December 31, 2016, 20 million shares remained available for repurchase pursuant to the Repurchase Program.  
The Company expects to fund any future stock repurchases using the Company’s available cash balances or proceeds from the 
issuance of debt.

Except in connection with the disposition of the Company’s communications business to NetScout in 2015, neither the 
Company nor any “affiliated purchaser” repurchased any shares of Company common stock during 2016, 2015 or 2014.  Refer 
to Note 3 for discussion of the 26 million shares of Danaher common stock tendered to and repurchased by the Company in 
connection with the disposition of the Company’s communications business to NetScout.

Stock options have been issued to directors, officers and other employees under the Company’s 1998 Stock Option Plan and 
2007 Stock Incentive Plan and RSUs and PSUs have been issued under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan.  In addition, in 
connection with the 2007 Tektronix acquisition, the 2015 Pall Acquisition and the 2016 Cepheid Acquisition, the Company 
assumed certain outstanding stock options and RSUs, as applicable, that had been awarded under the stock compensation plans 
of the respective, acquired businesses.  These plans (the “Assumed Plans”) operate in a similar manner to the Company’s 2007 
Stock Incentive Plan and 1998 Stock Option Plan, and no further equity awards will be issued under 1998 Stock Option Plan or 
any of the Assumed Plans.  The 2007 Stock Incentive Plan provides for the grant of stock options, stock appreciation rights, 
RSUs, restricted stock, PSUs or any other stock-based award.  A total of approximately 76 million shares of Danaher common 
stock have been authorized for issuance under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan, of which no more than 23 million shares may be 
granted in any form other than stock options or stock appreciation rights.  As of December 31, 2016, approximately 27 million 
shares of the Company’s common stock remain available for issuance under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan.  In addition, the 
Company may grant up to 6 million shares of Danaher common stock under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan based on the shares 
that were available for grant under Pall’s shareholder-approved stock compensation plan at the time the Company acquired Pall.

Stock options granted under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan and the 1998 Stock Option Plan generally vest pro rata over a five-
year period and terminate 10 years from the grant date, though the specific terms of each grant are determined by the 
Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board (the “Compensation Committee”).  The Company’s executive officers and 
certain other employees have been awarded options with different vesting criteria, and options granted to outside directors are 
fully vested as of the grant date.  Option exercise prices for options granted by the Company under these plans equal the closing 
price of the Company’s common stock on the NYSE on the date of grant.  Option exercise prices for any options outstanding 
under the Assumed Plans were based on the closing price of the applicable acquired company’s common stock on the date of 
grant.  In connection with the Company’s assumption of these options, the number of shares underlying each option and 
exercise price of each option were adjusted to reflect the substitution of the Company’s stock for the stock of the applicable 
acquired company.

RSUs issued under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan provide for the issuance of a share of the Company’s common stock at no 
cost to the holder.  The RSUs that have been granted to employees under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan generally provide for 
time-based vesting over a five-year period, although executive officers and certain other employees have been awarded RSUs 
with different time-based vesting criteria, and RSUs granted to members of the Company’s senior management are also subject 
to performance-based vesting criteria.  The RSUs that have been granted to directors under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan vest 
on the earlier of the first anniversary of the grant date or the date of, and immediately prior to, the next annual meeting of the 
Company’s shareholders following the grant date, but the underlying shares are not issued until the earlier of the director’s 
death or the first day of the seventh month following the director’s retirement from the Board.  Prior to vesting, RSUs granted 
under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan do not have dividend equivalent rights, do not have voting rights and the shares underlying 
the RSUs are not considered issued and outstanding.  With respect to outstanding RSUs granted under the Assumed Plans, in 
connection with the Company’s assumption of these RSUs the number of shares underlying each RSU were adjusted to reflect 
the substitution of the Company’s stock for the stock of the applicable acquired company, and certain of these RSUs have 
dividend equivalent rights.

98

In 2015, the Company introduced into its executive officer equity compensation program PSUs that vest based on the 
Company’s total shareholder return ranking relative to the S&P 500 Index over a three-year performance period and are subject 
to an additional two-year holding period.  In 2016 and 2015 one-half of the annual equity awards granted to the Company’s 
executive officers were granted as stock options, one-quarter were granted as RSUs and one-quarter were granted as PSUs.  
The PSUs were issued under the Company’s 2007 Stock Incentive Plan.

In connection with the Fortive Separation and pursuant to the anti-dilution provisions of the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan, the 
Company made certain adjustments to the exercise price and the number of shares underlying stock-based compensation 
awards with the intention of preserving the intrinsic value of the awards prior to the Separation.  Accordingly, the number of 
shares underlying each stock-based award outstanding as of the date of the Separation was multiplied by a factor of 1.32 and 
the related exercise price for stock options was divided by a factor of 1.32 which resulted in no increase in the intrinsic value of 
awards outstanding.  The stock-based compensation awards continue to vest over their original vesting period.  These 
adjustments to the Company’s stock-based compensation awards did not result in additional compensation expense.  Stock-
based compensation awards that were held by employees who transferred to Fortive in connection with the Separation were 
canceled and replaced by awards issued by Fortive.

In connection with the NetScout transaction discussed in Note 3, the Company agreed to: (i) allow stock options held by 
employees of the Company’s communications business that were scheduled to vest between the closing date and August 4, 
2015 to vest in accordance with their terms and remain exercisable for up to 90 days following such vesting date, and (ii) allow 
RSUs held by employees of the Company’s communications business that were scheduled to vest between the closing date and 
August 4, 2015 to vest in accordance with their terms.  All other outstanding, unvested awards held by employees who 
transferred with the communications business were canceled and replaced by awards issued by NetScout.  The related stock 
compensation expense for these awards in the year ended December 31, 2014 of $6 million has been included in the results of 
discontinued operations in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

The equity compensation awards granted by the Company generally vest only if the employee is employed by the Company (or 
in the case of directors, the director continues to serve on the Company Board) on the vesting date or in other limited 
circumstances.  To cover the exercise of options and vesting of RSUs and PSUs, the Company generally issues new shares from 
its authorized but unissued share pool, although it may instead issue treasury shares in certain circumstances.

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation by measuring the cost of employee services received in exchange for all 
equity awards granted based on the fair value of the award as of the grant date.  The Company recognizes the compensation 
expense over the requisite service period (which is generally the vesting period but may be shorter than the vesting period if the 
employee becomes retirement eligible before the end of the vesting period).  The fair value for RSU awards was calculated 
using the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, adjusted for the fact that RSUs (other than certain 
RSUs granted under the Assumed Plans) do not accrue dividends.  The fair value of the PSU awards was calculated using a 
Monte Carlo pricing model.  The fair value of the options granted was calculated using a Black-Scholes Merton option pricing 
model (“Black-Scholes”).

The following summarizes the assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model to value options granted during the years ended 
December 31:

Risk-free interest rate

Weighted average volatility

Dividend yield

Expected years until exercise

2016

2015

2014

1.2 – 1.8%

1.6 – 2.2%

1.7 – 2.4%

24.3%

0.6%

24.3%

0.6%

22.4%

0.5%

5.5 – 8.0

5.5 – 8.0

5.5 – 8.0

The Black-Scholes model incorporates assumptions to value stock-based awards.  The risk-free rate of interest for periods 
within the contractual life of the option is based on a zero-coupon U.S. government instrument whose maturity period equals or 
approximates the option’s expected term.  Expected volatility is based on implied volatility from traded options on the 
Company’s stock and historical volatility of the Company’s stock.  The dividend yield is calculated by dividing the Company’s 
annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly dividend rate, by the closing stock price on the grant date.  To estimate the 
option exercise timing used in the valuation model (which impacts the risk-free interest rate and the expected years until 
exercise), in addition to considering the vesting period and contractual term of the option, the Company analyzes and considers 
actual historical exercise experience for previously granted options.  The Company stratifies its employee population into 
multiple groups for option valuation and attribution purposes based upon distinctive patterns of forfeiture rates and option 

99

holding periods, as indicated by the ranges set forth in the table above for the risk-free interest rate and the expected years until 
exercise.

The amount of stock-based compensation expense recognized during a period is also based on the portion of the awards that are 
ultimately expected to vest.  The Company estimates pre-vesting forfeitures at the time of grant by analyzing historical data and 
revises those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.  Ultimately, the total expense 
recognized over the vesting period will equal the fair value of awards that actually vest.

The following summarizes the components of the Company’s continuing operations stock-based compensation expense for the 
years ended December 31 ($ in millions):

RSUs/PSUs:

Pretax compensation expense

Income tax benefit

RSU/PSU expense, net of income taxes

Stock options:

Pretax compensation expense

Income tax benefit

Stock option expense, net of income taxes

Total stock-based compensation:

Pretax compensation expense

Income tax benefit

Total stock-based compensation expense, net of income taxes

2016

2015

2014

$

$

$

85.9
(25.3)
60.6

43.9
(13.6)
30.3

129.8
(38.9)
90.9

$

$

69.7
(22.1)
47.6

34.1
(10.7)
23.4

103.8
(32.8)
71.0

$

52.1
(14.7)
37.4

32.6
(9.4)
23.2

84.7
(24.1)
60.6

Stock-based compensation has been recognized as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses in the 
accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings.  As of December 31, 2016, $132 million of total unrecognized 
compensation cost related to RSUs/PSUs is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately two 
years.  As of December 31, 2016, $113 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to 
be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately three years.  Future compensation amounts will be adjusted for 
any changes in estimated forfeitures.

100

The following summarizes option activity under the Company’s stock plans (in millions, except weighted exercise price and 
number of years):

Options

Weighted Average
Exercise Price

Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

Outstanding as of January 1, 2014 (a)

30.7

$

Granted (a)
Exercised (a)
Cancelled/forfeited (a)

Outstanding as of December 31, 2014 (a)

Granted (a)
Exercised (a)
Cancelled/forfeited (a)

Outstanding as of December 31, 2015 (a)

Granted

Exercised
Cancelled/forfeited
Adjustment due to Fortive Separation (b)

Outstanding as of December 31, 2016

Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 
2016 (c)
Vested as of December 31, 2016

4.8
(4.5)
(1.0)
30.0

4.1
(7.8)
(1.4)
24.9

5.7
(5.3)
(1.2)
(5.2)
18.9

18.2

8.8

$

$

32.48

58.50

27.38

44.92

37.01

66.64

28.40

51.55

43.75

67.52

33.45

73.21

50.44

50.07

49.62

37.00

6

6

4

$

$

$

522.4

515.4

358.6

(a) The outstanding options as of December 31, 2015 and the option activity prior to December 31, 2015 (except those options canceled as part

of the Separation as noted below) have been adjusted by a factor of 1.32, as noted above, due to the Separation.

(b) The “Adjustment due to Fortive Separation” reflects the cancellation of options which were outstanding as of July 2, 2016 and held by

Fortive employees, which have been converted to Fortive options as part of the Separation.

(c)  The “expected to vest” options are the net unvested options that remain after applying the forfeiture rate assumption to total unvested

options.

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic value (the difference between the 
Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of 2016 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money 
options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on December 31, 
2016.  The amount of aggregate intrinsic value will change based on the price of the Company’s common stock. 

Options outstanding as of December 31, 2016 are summarized below (in millions, except price per share and number of years):

Exercise Price
$19.89 to $31.85

$31.86 to $43.95

$43.96 to $56.70

$56.71 to $65.95

$65.96 to $80.92

Outstanding

Average
Exercise Price

Average
Remaining Life
(in years)

Exercisable

Shares

Average
Exercise Price

Shares

$

4.1

3.4

2.7

6.3

2.4

26.52

38.88

50.69

63.79

69.84

2

5

6

8

9

$

4.1

2.7

0.9

0.7

0.4

26.52

38.59

49.80

60.12

67.99

The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $210 
million, $313 million and $154 million, respectively.  Exercise of options during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 
2014 resulted in cash receipts of $161 million, $223 million, and $125 million, respectively.  Upon exercise of the award by the 
employee, the Company derives a tax deduction measured by the excess of the market value over the grant price at the date of 
exercise.  The Company realized a tax benefit of $61 million, $101 million, and $46 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, 
respectively, related to the exercise of employee stock options.  The net income tax benefit in excess of the expense recorded 

101

for financial reporting purposes (the “excess tax benefit”) has been recorded as an increase to additional paid-in capital and is 
reflected as a financing cash inflow in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

The following summarizes information on unvested RSU and PSU activity (in millions, except weighted average grant-date fair 
value):

Unvested as of January 1, 2014 (a)

Granted (a)
Vested (a)
Forfeited (a)

Unvested as of December 31, 2014 (a)

Granted (a)
Vested (a)
Forfeited (a)

Unvested as of December 31, 2015 (a)

Granted

Vested
Adjustment due to Fortive Separation (b)
Forfeited

Unvested as of December 31, 2016

Number of RSUs
/PSUs

Weighted Average
Grant-Date 
Fair Value

6.5

$

2.0
(1.9)
(0.5)
6.1

2.9
(2.1)
(0.8)
6.1

1.9
(1.8)
(1.2)
(0.5)
4.5

38.40

54.42

32.15

44.48

45.18

65.66

45.00

52.56

53.93

66.15

50.64

58.24

28.79

62.16

(a)  The unvested RSUs and PSUs as of December 31, 2015 and the RSU and PSU activity in the periods prior to December 31, 2015 (except those RSUs and 

PSUs canceled as part of the Separation as noted below) have been adjusted by a factor of 1.32, as noted above, due to the Separation.

(b)  The “Adjustment due to Fortive Separation” reflects the cancellation of RSUs and PSUs which were outstanding as of July 2, 2016 and held by Fortive

employees which have been converted to Fortive RSUs and PSUs as part of the Separation.

The Company realized a tax benefit of $38 million, $46 million and $36 million in the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 
and 2014, respectively, related to the vesting of RSUs.  The excess tax benefit attributable to RSUs has been recorded as an 
increase to additional paid-in capital and is reflected as a financing cash inflow in the accompanying Consolidated Statements 
of Cash Flows.

In connection with the exercise of certain stock options and the vesting of RSUs previously issued by the Company, a number 
of shares sufficient to fund statutory minimum tax withholding requirements has been withheld from the total shares issued or 
released to the award holder (though under the terms of the applicable plan, the shares are considered to have been issued and 
are not added back to the pool of shares available for grant).  During the year ended December 31, 2016, 668 thousand shares 
with an aggregate value of $48 million were withheld to satisfy the requirement.  During the year ended December 31, 2015, 
677 thousand shares with an aggregate value of $60 million were withheld to satisfy the requirement.  The withholding is 
treated as a reduction in additional paid-in capital in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity.

NOTE 18.  NET EARNINGS PER SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Basic net earnings per share (“EPS”) from continuing operations is calculated by dividing net earnings from continuing 
operations by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the applicable period.  Diluted net EPS from 
continuing operations is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding increased by the 
number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued and 
reduced by the number of shares the Company could have repurchased with the proceeds from the issuance of the potentially 
dilutive shares.  For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, 1 million, 2 million and 2 million options to purchase 
shares, respectively, were not included in the diluted earnings per share calculation as the impact of their inclusion would have 
been anti-dilutive.

102

Information related to the calculation of net earnings from continuing operations per share of common stock is summarized as 
follows ($ and shares in millions, except per share amounts):

For the year ended December 31, 2016

Basic EPS

Adjustment for interest on convertible debentures

Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options and vesting
of dilutive RSUs and PSUs

Incremental shares from assumed conversion of the convertible
debentures

Diluted EPS

For the year ended December 31, 2015
Basic EPS

Adjustment for interest on convertible debentures
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options and vesting
of dilutive RSUs and PSUs

Incremental shares from assumed conversion of the convertible
debentures

Diluted EPS

For the year ended December 31, 2014

Basic EPS

Net Earnings from
Continuing
Operations
(Numerator)

Shares
(Denominator)

Per Share
Amount

$

2,153.4

691.2

$

3.12

1.8

—

—

—

6.0

2.6

2,155.2

699.8

$

3.08

1,746.7

698.1

$

2.50

2.2

—

—

—

7.7

2.7

1,748.9

708.5

$

2.47

1,638.7

702.2

$

2.33

$

$

$

$

Adjustment for interest on convertible debentures
Incremental shares from assumed exercise of dilutive options and vesting
of dilutive RSUs and PSUs

Incremental shares from assumed conversion of the convertible
debentures

3.3

—

—

—

9.1

4.8

Diluted EPS

$

1,642.0

716.1

$

2.29

103

NOTE 19.  SEGMENT INFORMATION

Before the Separation, the Company operated and reported its results in five separate business segments consisting of the 
Test & Measurement, Environmental, Life Sciences & Diagnostics, Dental and Industrial Technologies segments.  The 
Company reevaluated its business segments after the Separation, and the Company now operates and reports its results in four 
separate business segments consisting of the Life Sciences, Diagnostics, Dental and Environmental & Applied Solutions 
segments.  When determining the reportable segments, the Company aggregated operating segments based on their similar 
economic and operating characteristics.  Operating profit represents total revenues less operating expenses, excluding other 
expense, interest and income taxes.  The identifiable assets by segment are those used in each segment’s operations.  Inter-
segment amounts are not significant and are eliminated to arrive at consolidated totals.

Detailed segment data for the years ended December 31 is as follows ($ in millions):

Sales:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Total

Operating profit:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Other
Total

Identifiable assets:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Other

Discontinued operations
Total

Depreciation and amortization:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions

Other

Total

2016

2015

2014

$

5,365.9

$

3,314.6

$

5,038.3

2,785.4

3,692.8

4,832.5

2,736.8

3,549.8

2,511.5

4,618.8

2,193.1

3,543.5

$

$

$

$

$

$

16,882.4

$

14,433.7

$

12,866.9

818.9

$

329.2

$

786.4

419.4

870.0
(143.8)
2,750.9

$

746.2

370.4

866.6
(150.2)
2,162.2

$

19,875.9

$

19,658.4

$

14,159.6

5,772.2

4,172.9

1,314.7

9,848.2

5,906.9

4,223.5

1,309.7

368.5

725.0

304.4

781.8
(134.7)
2,045.0

3,962.3

9,836.5

6,224.3

4,147.8

3,615.2

—
45,295.3

$

7,275.5
48,222.2

$

9,205.6
36,991.7

426.2

$

210.1

$

481.5

127.2

86.7

6.5

449.7

132.0

82.2

6.8

101.1

437.8

85.0

88.6

5.6

$

1,128.1

$

880.8

$

718.1

104

Capital expenditures, gross:

Life Sciences

Diagnostics

Dental

Environmental & Applied Solutions
Other

Total

Operations in Geographical Areas:

($ in millions)
Sales:

United States

China

Germany
Japan

All other (each country individually less than 5% of total sales)

Total

Property, plant and equipment, net:

United States

Germany

United Kingdom

All other (each country individually less than 5% of total property, plant
and equipment, net)

2016

2015

2014

$

109.7

$

62.3

$

374.3

49.1

51.0

5.5

336.8

53.3

58.4

2.1

39.6

351.2

24.4

49.9

0.3

$

589.6

$

512.9

$

465.4

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

6,377.4

$

5,678.3

$

1,799.1

1,084.6
864.7

6,756.6

1,552.9

858.4
668.5

5,675.6

4,821.6

1,288.3

863.5
584.8

5,308.7

16,882.4

$

14,433.7

$

12,866.9

$

$

1,198.4

$

1,189.6

$

190.8

140.6

824.2

192.9

165.5

754.7

791.8

159.0

57.3

657.7

1,665.8

Total

$

2,354.0

$

2,302.7

$

Sales by Major Product Group:

($ in millions)

Analytical and physical instrumentation

Research and medical products

Dental products

Product identification

Total

For the Year Ended December 31

2016

2015

2014

$

2,088.9

$

2,014.4

$

10,366.7

2,785.4

1,641.4

8,110.9

2,736.8

1,571.6

1,967.7

7,094.9

2,193.1

1,611.2

$

16,882.4

$

14,433.7

$

12,866.9

105

NOTE 20.  QUARTERLY DATA-UNAUDITED

($ in millions, except per share data)
2016:
Sales

Gross profit

Operating profit

Net earnings from continuing operations

Net earnings (loss) from discontinued
operations

Net earnings

Net earnings per share from continuing
operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings (loss) per share from discontinued
operations:

Basic
Diluted

Net earnings per share:

Basic
Diluted

2015:
Sales

Gross profit

Operating profit

Net earnings from continuing operations

Net earnings from discontinued operations

Net earnings

Net earnings per share from continuing
operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per share from discontinued
operations:

Basic

Diluted

Net earnings per share:

Basic

Diluted

$

$

$

$
$

$
$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

1st Quarter

2nd Quarter

3rd Quarter

4th Quarter

3,924.1

2,167.3

613.1

585.8

172.6

758.4

0.85

0.84

0.25
0.25

1.10
1.09

3,192.2

1,741.6

447.7

347.9

221.9

569.8

0.49

0.48

0.31

0.31

$

$

$

$
$

$
$

$

$

$

$

$

0.81 * $

0.79

$

4,241.9

2,381.3

$

710.1

418.0

238.7

656.7

0.60

0.60

0.35
0.34

0.95
0.94

3,406.3

1,878.9

582.9

497.9

197.8

695.7

0.70

0.69

0.28

0.27

0.98

$

$

$
$

$
$

$

$

$

$

$

$

4,132.1

2,286.0

699.1

402.6

(11.0)
391.6

0.58

0.57

(0.02)
(0.02)

$

$

$

$
$

4,584.3

2,500.0

728.6

747.0

—

747.0

1.08 **

1.07

—
—

0.57 * $
0.56 * $

1.08 **
1.07 **

3,512.2

1,893.4

480.0

379.9

1,023.4

1,403.3

0.55

0.54

1.49

1.46

2.04

$

$

$

$

$

$

4,323.0

2,257.2

651.6

521.0

167.6

688.6

0.76

0.75 **

0.24 **

0.24 **

1.00 **

0.99 **

0.97 * $

2.01 * $

* Net earnings per share amount does not add due to rounding.
** Net earnings per share amounts do not add across to the full year amount due to rounding.

106

ITEM 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE

Not applicable.

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, and Executive 
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and 
procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended 
(the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on such evaluation, the Company’s President 
and Chief Executive Officer, and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, have concluded that, as of the end of 
such period, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

Management’s annual report on its internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 
15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) and the independent registered public accounting firm’s audit report on the effectiveness of 
Danaher’s internal control over financial reporting are included in the Company’s financial statements for the year ended 
December 31, 2016 included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, under the headings “Report of Management on 
Danaher Corporation’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting” and “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting 
Firm,” respectively, and are incorporated herein by reference.

The Company completed the acquisition of Cepheid on November 4, 2016.  Since the Company has not yet fully incorporated 
the internal controls and procedures of Cepheid into the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, management 
excluded Cepheid from its assessment of the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of 
December 31, 2016.  Cepheid constituted approximately 10% of the Company’s total assets as of December 31, 2016 and 
accounted for approximately 1% of the Company’s total revenues for the year then ended.

There have been no changes in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s 
most recent completed quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s 
internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.

PART III

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Other than the information below, the information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled 
Proposal 1–Election of Directors of Danaher, Corporate Governance and Other Information–Section 16(a) Beneficial 
Ownership Reporting Compliance in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 annual meeting of shareholders and from 
the information under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant” in Part I hereof.  No nominee for director was selected 
pursuant to any arrangement or understanding between the nominee and any person other than the Company pursuant to which 
such person is or was to be selected as a director or nominee.

Code of Ethics

Danaher adopted a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers (including Danaher’s principal executive officer, 
principal financial officer and principal accounting officer) and employees, known as the Standards of Conduct.  The Standards 
of Conduct are available in the “Investors – Corporate Governance” section of its website at www.danaher.com.

Danaher intends to disclose any amendment to the Standards of Conduct that relates to any element of the code of ethics 
definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of Regulation S-K, and any waiver from a provision of the Standards of Conduct granted 
to any director, principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, or any of its other executive 
officers, in the “Investors – Corporate Governance” section of its website, at www.danaher.com, within four business days 
following the date of such amendment or waiver.

107

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Director Compensation, 
Compensation Discussion and Analysis, Compensation Committee Report, Compensation Tables and Summary of 
Employment Agreements and Plans in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 annual meeting of shareholders (provided 
that the Compensation Committee Report shall not be deemed to be “filed”).

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND 
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Beneficial Ownership of Danaher 
Common Stock by Directors, Officers and Principal Shareholders and Proposal 3 - Approval of Amendments to the Danaher 
Corporation 2007 Stock Incentive Plan and Material Terms of the Plan’s Performance Goals - Equity Compensation Plan 
Information in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 annual meeting of shareholders.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the sections entitled Director Independence and 
Related Person Transactions in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 annual meeting of shareholders.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the section entitled Proposal 2 - Ratification of 
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm in the Proxy Statement for the Company’s 2017 annual meeting of 
shareholders.

108

PART IV

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

a) The following documents are filed as part of this report.

(1) Financial Statements.  The financial statements are set forth under “Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary

Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(2) Schedules.  An index of Exhibits and Schedules is on page 110 of this report.  Schedules other than those listed below
have been omitted from this Annual Report on Form 10-K because they are not required, are not applicable or the
required information is included in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

(3) Exhibits.  The exhibits listed in the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this

Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 16.  FORM 10-K SUMMARY

Not applicable.

109

DANAHER CORPORATION
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SUPPLEMENTARY DATA AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE

Schedule:
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

Exhibit Number

Description

EXHIBIT INDEX

Page Number in
Form 10-K

119

2.1

2.2

3.1

3.2

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of May 
12, 2015, by and among Danaher Corporation, 
Pentagon Merger Sub, Inc. and Pall Corporation+

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on May 13, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Separation and Distribution Agreement, dated as 
of July 1, 2016, by and between Danaher 
Corporation and Fortive Corporation +

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Danaher
Corporation

Amended and Restated By-laws of Danaher
Corporation

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 29, 2012
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed December 6, 2016 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Senior Indenture dated as of December 11, 2007
by and between Danaher Corporation and The
Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A. as trustee
(“Senior Indenture”)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Supplemental Indenture to Senior Indenture, dated
as of December 11, 2007, by and between Danaher
Corporation and The Bank of New York Trust
Company, N.A. as trustee relating to the 5.625%
Senior Notes Due 2018

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Supplemental Indenture to Senior Indenture, dated
as of March 5, 2009, by and between Danaher
Corporation and The Bank of New York Mellon
Trust Company, N.A. as trustee relating to the
5.4% Senior Notes due 2019

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.4 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Supplemental Indenture to Senior Indenture, dated
as of June 23, 2011, by and between Danaher
Corporation and The Bank of New York Mellon
Trust Company, N.A. as trustee relating to the
2.3% Senior Notes due 2016

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.10 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

110

4.5

4.6

4.7

4.8

4.9

4.10

4.11

Supplemental Indenture to Senior Indenture, dated
as of June 23, 2011, by and between Danaher
Corporation and The Bank of New York Mellon
Trust Company, N.A. as trustee relating to the
3.9% Senior Notes due 2021

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.12 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Supplemental Indenture to Senior Indenture, dated
as of September 15, 2015, by and between
Danaher Corporation and The Bank of New York
Mellon Trust Company, N.A. as trustee relating to
the 1.650% Senior Notes due 2018, 2.400% Senior
Notes due 2020, 3.350% Senior Notes due 2025
and 4.375% Senior Notes due 2045

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed September 15, 2015 (Commission File
Number: 1-8089)

Indenture dated as of July 8, 2015, by and between
Danaher Corporation, as guarantor, DH Europe
Finance S.A., as issuer, and The Bank of New
York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. as trustee
(“Danaher International Indenture”)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on July 8, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

First Supplemental Indenture to Danaher
International Indenture, dated as of July 8, 2015,
by and between Danaher Corporation, as
guarantor, DH Europe Finance S.A., as issuer, and
The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company,
N.A. as trustee relating to the Floating Rate Senior
Notes due 2017, the 1.000% Senior Notes due
2019, the 1.700% Senior Notes due 2022 and the
2.500% Senior Notes due 2025

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on July 8, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Paying and Calculation Agency Agreement, dated
as of July 8, 2015, by and among Danaher
International, Danaher Corporation, and The Bank
of New York Mellon, London Branch, as paying
and calculation agent

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.3 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on July 8, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Indenture, dated as of June 20, 2016, between
Fortive Corporation, as issuer, and The Bank of
New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Danaher
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on
June 21, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Guarantee, dated as of June 20, 2016, made by
Danaher Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Danaher
Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on
June 21, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.1

Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock Incentive Plan,
as amended*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Registration Statement on
Form S-8 filed on September 14, 2016
(Commission File Number: 333-213631)

10.2

10.3

Danaher Corporation Non-Employee Directors’
Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended, a sub-
plan under the 2007 Stock Incentive Plan*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2008
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Amended Form of Election to Defer under the
Danaher Corporation Non-Employee Directors’
Deferred Compensation Plan*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2008
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

111

10.4

10.5

Form of Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock
Incentive Plan Stock Option Agreement for Non-
Employee Directors*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 3, 2015
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Form of Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock
Incentive Plan RSU Agreement for Non-Employee
Directors*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 3, 2015
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.6

Form of Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock
Incentive Plan Stock Option Agreement*

10.7

Form of Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock
Incentive Plan RSU Agreement*

10.8

Form of Danaher Corporation 2007 Stock
Incentive Plan Performance Stock Unit
Agreement*

10.9

Amended and Restated Danaher Corporation 1998
Stock Option Plan*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.6 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 3, 2015
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.4 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended September 26, 2014
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.10

10.11

Form of Grant Acceptance Agreement under
Amended and Restated Danaher Corporation 1998
Stock Option Plan*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2004
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Danaher Corporation & Subsidiaries Amended
and Restated Executive Deferred Incentive
Program*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Registration Statement on
Form S-8 filed on September 14, 2016
(Commission File Number: 333-213631)

10.12

Danaher Corporation 2007 Executive Cash
Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended*

10.13

Danaher Corporation Senior Leader Severance
Pay Plan*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on May 9, 2012 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended March 29, 2013
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.14

Agreement Regarding Competition and Protection 
of Proprietary Interests by and between Danaher 
Corporation and Thomas P. Joyce, Jr., dated March 
16, 2009* (1)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.16 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2014
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

112

10.15

10.16

10.17

10.18

10.19

10.20

10.21

10.22

10.23

Amendment to Agreement Regarding Competition
and Protection of Proprietary Interests by and
between Danaher Corporation and Thomas P.
Joyce, Jr., dated September 11, 2014*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on September 15, 2014 (Commission File
Number: 1-8089)

Agreement Regarding Competition and Protection
of Proprietary Interests by and between Danaher
Corporation and Angela S. Lalor dated March 23,
2012*

Letter Agreement by and between Danaher
Corporation and Angela S. Lalor, dated March 19,
2012*

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.14 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2012
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Agreement Regarding Competition and Protection
of Proprietary Interests by and between Danaher
Corporation and Brian W. Ellis dated December 7,
2015*

Letter Agreement by and between Danaher
Corporation and Brian W. Ellis, dated November
20, 2015*

Agreement Regarding Competition and Protection
of Proprietary Interests by and between Danaher
Corporation and Rainer Blair, dated May 2, 2010*

Description of compensation arrangements for
non-management directors*

Credit Agreement, dated as of July 10, 2015,
among Danaher Corporation, Bank of America,
N.A., as Administrative Agent and a Swing Line
lender, Citibank, N.A. as Syndication Agent,
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., The
Bank Of Tokyo - Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., BNP
Paribas Securities Corp., US Bank National
Association, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. and
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC as Joint Lead
Arrangers and Joint Book Managers, and the other
lenders referred to therein

Credit Agreement, dated as of July 10, 2015,
among Danaher Corporation, Citibank, N.A. as
Administrative Agent, Bank of America, N.A., as
Syndication Agent, Deutsche Bank Securities
Corp. and Barclays Bank Plc, as Documentation
Agents, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill
Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated,
Deutsche Bank Securities Corp. and Barclays
Bank Plc, as Joint Lead Arrangers and Joint
Bookrunners and the other lenders referred to
therein

113

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on July 10, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on July 10, 2015 (Commission File Number:
1-8089)

10.24

10.25

10.26

10.27

10.28

10.29

Credit Agreement, dated as of June 16, 2016,
among Fortive Corporation and certain of its
subsidiaries party thereto, Danaher Corporation,
Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent
and a Swing Line Lender, and the lenders referred
to therein

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-
K, filed on June 21, 2016 (Commission File
Number: 1-8089)

Credit Agreement, dated as of October 24, 2016,
among Danaher Corporation, Morgan Stanley
Senior Funding, Inc. as Administrative Agent,
Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner, and the
other lenders referred to therein

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to
Danaher Corporation’s Current Report on Form 8-K
filed on October 24, 2016 (Commission File
Number: 1-8089)

Management Agreement dated February 23, 2012 
by and between FJ900, Inc. and Joust Capital III, 
LLC (2)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.25 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Interchange Agreement dated July 22, 2011 by and 
between Danaher Corporation and Joust Capital 
III, LLC (3)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.10 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2011
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Aircraft Time Sharing Agreement by and between 
Danaher Corporation and Thomas P. Joyce, Jr., 
dated May 7, 2014 *(4)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended June 27, 2014
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

Amendment No. 1 to Aircraft Time Sharing 
Agreement by and between Danaher Corporation 
and Thomas P. Joyce, Jr., dated July 1, 2016 *(4)

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.7 to
Danaher Corporation’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended July 1, 2016
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.30

Form of Director and Officer Indemnification
Agreement

Incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.35 to
Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-
K for the year ended December 31, 2008
(Commission File Number: 1-8089)

10.31

10.32

10.33

10.34

Employee Matters Agreement, dated as of July 1,
2016, by and between Danaher Corporation and
Fortive Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654)

Tax Matters Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016,
by and between Danaher Corporation and Fortive
Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654)

Transition Services Agreement, dated as of July 1,
2016, by and between Danaher Corporation and
Fortive Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654)

Intellectual Property Matters Agreement, dated as
of July 1, 2016, by and between Danaher
Corporation and Fortive Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654)

114

10.35

DBS License Agreement, dated as of July 1, 2016
by and between Danaher Corporation and Fortive
Corporation

Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to
Amendment No. 1 to Fortive Corporation’s
Registration Statement on Form 10, filed on March
3, 2016 (Commission File Number: 1-37654)

11.1

Computation of per-share earnings (5)

12.1

Calculation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

21.1

Subsidiaries of Registrant

23.1

31.1

31.2

32.1

32.2

Consent of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firm

Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant
to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted
pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002

Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant
to Item 601(b)(31) of Regulation S-K, as adopted
pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002

Certification of Chief Executive Officer, Pursuant
to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Certification of Chief Financial Officer, Pursuant
to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document (6)

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (6)

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase 
Document (6)

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase 
Document (6)

101.LAB

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase 
Document (6)

101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation 
Linkbase Document (6)

115

Danaher is a party to additional long-term debt instruments under which, in each case, the total amount of debt authorized does 
not exceed 10% of the total assets of Danaher and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. Pursuant to paragraph 4(iii)(A) of 
Item 601(b) of Regulation S-K, Danaher agrees to furnish a copy of such instruments to the Securities and Exchange 
Commission upon request.

+

*

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

The schedules have been omitted from this filing pursuant to Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. Danaher will
furnish copies of such schedules to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.

Indicates management contract or compensatory plan, contract or arrangement.

In accordance with Instruction 2 to Item 601(a)(4) of Regulation S-K, Danaher has entered into agreements with
each of Daniel L. Comas and William K. Daniel II that are substantially identical in all material respects to the
form of agreement referenced as Exhibit 10.14 except as to the name of the counterparty.

In accordance with Instruction 2 to Item 601(a)(4) of Regulation S-K, FJ900, Inc. (a subsidiary of Danaher) has
entered into a management agreement with Joust Capital II, LLC that is substantially identical in all material
respects to the form of agreement referenced as Exhibit 10.26, except as to the referenced aircraft and the name
of the counterparty.

In accordance with Instruction 2 to Item 601(a)(4) of Regulation S-K, Danaher Corporation or a subsidiary
thereof has entered into additional interchange agreements with each of Joust Capital II, LLC and Joust Capital
III, LLC that are substantially identical in all material respects to the form of agreement attached as 10.27,
except as to the referenced aircraft and, in certain cases, the name of the counterparty.

In accordance with Instruction 2 to Item 601(a)(4) of Regulation S-K, Danaher Corporation has entered into an
aircraft time sharing agreement and related amendment with Daniel L. Comas that are substantially identical in
all material respects to the forms of agreement referenced as Exhibit 10.28 and Exhibit 10.29, respectively,
except as to the name of the counterparty.

Refer to Note 18, “Net Earnings Per Share from Continuing Operations”, to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.

Attached as Exhibit 101 to this report are the following documents formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business
Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, (ii) Consolidated
Statements of Earnings for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (iii) Consolidated Statements of
Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (iv) Consolidated Statements
of Stockholders’ Equity for the years December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash
Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements.

116

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this 
report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

SIGNATURES

Date: February 21, 2017

DANAHER CORPORATION

By:

/s/ THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.

Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this annual report has been signed below by the following 
persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated:

Name, Title and Signature

Date

/s/ STEVEN M. RALES

Steven M. Rales
Chairman of the Board

/s/ MITCHELL P. RALES

Mitchell P. Rales

Chairman of the Executive Committee

/s/ DONALD J. EHRLICH

Donald J. Ehrlich

Director

/s/ LINDA HEFNER FILLER

Linda Hefner Filler

Director

/s/ ROBERT J. HUGIN

Robert J. Hugin

Director

/s/ THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.

Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

/s/ TERI LIST-STOLL

Teri List-Stoll

Director

/s/ WALTER G. LOHR, JR.

Walter G. Lohr, Jr.

Director

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

117

/s/ JOHN T. SCHWIETERS

John T. Schwieters

Director

/s/ ALAN G. SPOON

Alan G. Spoon

Director

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

/s/ RAYMOND C. STEVENS, Ph.D.

February 21, 2017

Raymond C. Stevens

Director

/s/ ELIAS A. ZERHOUNI, M.D.

Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D.

Director

/s/ DANIEL L. COMAS

Daniel L. Comas

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

/s/ ROBERT S. LUTZ

Robert S. Lutz

Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

118

I, Thomas P. Joyce, Jr., certify that:

CERTIFICATION

1. 

 I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Danaher Corporation; 

Exhibit 31.1

2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 

necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not 
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in 
all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods 
presented in this report;

4.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and 

procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as 
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a.  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated 
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is 
being prepared;

b.  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 

designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c.  Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by 
this report based on such evaluation; and

d.  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; 
and

5.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons 
performing the equivalent functions):

a.  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial 

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and 
report financial information; and

b.  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 21, 2017

/s/ Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.

By:
Name: Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.
Title:

President and Chief Executive Officer

 
I, Daniel L. Comas, certify that:

CERTIFICATION

1. 

 I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Danaher Corporation; 

Exhibit 31.2

2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 

necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not 
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in 
all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods 
presented in this report;

4.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and 

procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as 
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a.  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated 
subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is 
being prepared;

b.  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 

designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c.  Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by 
this report based on such evaluation; and

d.  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; 
and

5.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons 
performing the equivalent functions):

a.  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial 

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and 
report financial information; and

b.  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 21, 2017

/s/ Daniel L. Comas

By:
Name: Daniel L. Comas
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Exhibit 32.1

I, Thomas P. Joyce, Jr., certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley 
Act of 2002, that to my knowledge, Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
December 31, 2016 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and 
that information contained in such Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition 
and results of operations of Danaher Corporation.

Date: February 21, 2017

/s/ Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.

By:
Name: Thomas P. Joyce, Jr.
Title:

President and Chief Executive Officer

This certification accompanies the Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
and shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that 
section. This certification shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the 
Exchange Act, except to the extent that Danaher Corporation specifically incorporates it by reference.

 
CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Exhibit 32.2

I, Daniel L. Comas, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 
of 2002, that to my knowledge, Danaher Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 
2016 fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that 
information contained in such Annual Report on Form 10-K fairly presents in all material respects the financial condition and 
results of operations of Danaher Corporation.

Date: February 21, 2017

/s/ Daniel L. Comas

By:
Name: Daniel L. Comas
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

This certification accompanies the Annual Report on Form 10-K pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 
and shall not be deemed filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or otherwise subject to the liability of that 
section. This certification shall not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act or the 
Exchange Act, except to the extent that Danaher Corporation specifically incorporates it by reference.

SUPPLEMENTAL RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION TO 
CORRESPONDING FINANCIAL INFORMATION PRESENTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GAAP

CORE (OR ORGANIC) REVENUE GROWTH

Core (non-GAAP) 

Acquisitions (non-GAAP) 

Impact of currency translation (non-GAAP) 

Total revenue growth (GAAP) 

FREE CASH FLOW

($ in millions) 

Year Ended 12/31/16 vs. Year Ended 12/31/15

3.0%

15.0%

(1.0)%

17.0%

Year Ended 12/31/16 

Year Ended 12/31/15

Operating cash flows from continuing operations (GAAP) 

$3,087.5 

Payments for property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures) 
from continuing operations (GAAP) 

Free cash flow from continuing operations (non-GAAP) 

(589.6) 

$2,497.9 

$2,832.2

(512.9)

$2,319.3

RATIO OF FREE CASH FLOW TO NET EARNINGS

($ in millions) 

Year Ended 12/31/16 

Year Ended 12/31/15

Free cash flow from continuing operations from above (non-GAAP) 

Net earnings from continuing operations (GAAP) 

Free cash flow from continuing operations to net earnings  
from continuing operations conversion ratio (non-GAAP) 

$2,497.9 

$2,153.4 

1.16 

$2,319.3

$1,746.7

1.33

YEAR-OVER-YEAR CORE OPERATING MARGIN CHANGES

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Operating Profit Margins from Continuing Operations (GAAP)

15.00%

Full year 2016 impact from operating profit margins of businesses that have been owned for less than 
one year or were disposed of during such period and did not qualify as discontinued operations

Acquisition-related transaction costs deemed significant*, change in control payments and restructuring 
charges, and fair value adjustments to inventory and deferred revenue, in each case primarily related to 
the acquisition of Cepheid and incurred in 2016.

Acquisition-related transaction costs deemed significant*, change in control payments, and fair value 
adjustments to inventory and deferred revenue, net of the impact of freezing pension benefits, in each 
case related to the acquisition of Pall Corporation and incurred in 2015.

2016 gains on resolution of acquisition-related matters

Fair value adjustments to Nobel Biocare acquisition-related inventory incurred in 2015

Year-over year core operating profit margin changes for full year 2016 (defined as all year-over-year 
operating profit margin changes other than the changes identified in the line items above) (non-GAAP)

 (0.50)

 (0.50)

 0.90

0.10

0.15

1.15

Year Ended December 31, 2016 Operating Profit Margins from Continuing Operations (GAAP)

16.30%

*  The Company deems acquisition-related transaction costs incurred in a given period to be significant (generally relating to the Company’s larger 

acquisitions) if it determines that such costs exceed the range of acquisition-related transaction costs typical for Danaher in a given period.

 
COMPARISON OF 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE 
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN

The following graph compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total shareholder return in Danaher 

common  stock  during  the  five  years  ended  December  31,  2016  with  the  cumulative  total  return  of  the  S&P  500 

Index, the S&P 500 Industrials Index (the “Previous Year Index”) and the S&P 500 Health Care Index and the S&P 

500 Industrials Index on a combined basis (the “Current Year Index”). In July 2016, Danaher completed the spin-off 

of its former Test & Measurement segment, Industrial Technologies segment (excluding the product identification 

businesses) and retail/commercial petroleum business (the cumulative returns of our common stock set forth below 

have  been  adjusted  to  reflect  the  spin-off).  As  a  result  of  the  spin-off,  we  reassessed  our  peer  index.  We  have 

determined that the companies included in the Current Year Index more closely match our company characteristics 

than just the companies included in the S&P 500 Industrials Index, which we previously used as our peer index. The 

comparison below assumes $1.00 was invested on December 31, 2011 in Danaher common stock and in each of the 

above indices with reinvestment of dividends. The graph is not deemed to be “soliciting material” or to be “filed” 

with the SEC or subject to the SEC’s proxy rules or to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 

1934, except to the extent that Danaher specifically requests that such information be treated as soliciting material or 

specifically incorporates it by reference into a filing under the Securities Act or the Securities Exchange Act.

Danaher Corporation

S&P 500

Previous Year Index 

Current Year Index 

2.25

2.00

1.75

1.50

1.25

1.00

12/31/2011

12/31/2012

12/31/2013

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/11

12/31/12

12/31/13

12/31/14

12/31/15

12/31/16

Danaher  
Corporation

S&P 500 

Previous Year  
Index 

Current Year  
Index 

1.00

1.19

1.65

1.84

2.00

2.23

1.00

1.16

1.54

1.75

1.77

1.98

1.00

1.15

1.62

1.78

1.74

2.06

1.00

1.18

1.67

1.98

2.05

2.16

DIRECTORS

DONALD J. EHRLICH
Former President and  
Chief Executive Officer 
Schwab Corporation

LINDA HEFNER FILLER
President of  
Retail Products and  
Chief Merchandising Officer 
Walgreen Co.

ROBERT J. HUGIN
Executive Chairman of  
the Board of Directors  
Celgene Corporation 

THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.
President and  
Chief Executive Officer 
Danaher Corporation

TERI LIST-STOLL
Executive Vice President,  
Chief Financial Officer 
Gap Inc.

WALTER G. LOHR, JR.
Retired Partner 
Hogan Lovells

MITCHELL P. RALES
Chairman of the  
Executive Committee 
Danaher Corporation

STEVEN M. RALES
Chairman of the Board 
Danaher Corporation

JOHN T. SCHWIETERS
Principal - Perseus Realty, LLC

ALAN G. SPOON
Partner Emeritus 
Polaris Partners

RAYMOND C. STEVENS, PH.D.
Provost Professor 
Biological Sciences and Chemistry 
Director of The Bridge Institute 
The University of Southern California

ELIAS A. ZERHOUNI, M.D.
President, Global Research  
and Development 
Sanofi S.A.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

STEVEN M. RALES
Chairman of the Board

MITCHELL P. RALES
Chairman of the  
Executive Committee

DANIEL L. COMAS
Executive Vice President  
and Chief Financial Officer

ANGELA S. LALOR
Senior Vice President  
Human Resources

WILLIAM K. DANIEL, II
Executive Vice President

ROBERT S. LUTZ
Senior Vice President 
Chief Accounting Officer

DANIEL A. RASKAS
Senior Vice President  
Corporate Development

THOMAS P. JOYCE, JR.
President and  
Chief Executive Officer

BRIAN W. ELLIS
Senior Vice President  
and General Counsel

RAINER M. BLAIR
Executive Vice President

WILLIAM H. KING
Senior Vice President  
Strategic Development

OUR TRANSFER AGENT

Computershare can help you with a variety of shareholder-related services, including change of address,  
lost stock certificates, transfer of stock to another person and additional administrative services.  
Computershare can be reached at:

 P.O. Box 30170, College Station, TX 77842-3170 
Toll-free: 800.568.3476 | Outside the U.S.: +1.312.588.4991  |  www.computershare.com

INVESTOR RELATIONS

This annual report, along with a variety of other financial materials, can be viewed at www.danaher.com.  
Additional inquiries can be directed to Danaher Investor Relations:

 2200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 800W, Washington, DC 20037 
Phone: 202.828.0850  |  Fax: 202.828.0860  |  E-mail: investor.relations@danaher.com

ANNUAL MEETING

Danaher’s annual shareholder meeting will be held on May 9, 2017 in Washington, DC.  
Shareholders who would like to attend the meeting should register with Investor Relations  
by calling 202.828.0850 or via e-mail at investor.relations@danaher.com.

AUDITORS

Ernst & Young LLP, McLean, Virginia

STOCK LISTING

New York Stock Exchange Symbol: DHR