NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) Jan. 17, 2001--Standard&Poor's today assigned its single-'A'-plus rating to Danaher Corp.'s $450 million (proceeds) zero-coupon, liquid-yield option notes due 2021. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its ratings on the company (see list below). The proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, including potential acquisitions. The company's outstanding debt totaled $805 million at Sept. 30, 2000. The ratings on Danaher reflect the company's above-average business profile combined with a sound balance sheet, strong cash flow generation, and a moderately conservative financial policy. Danaher is a leading domestic manufacturer of mechanics' hand tools and automotive specialty tools. In addition, the company has many strong niche positions and environmental controls. Although
