10-K

QuickLinks -- Click here to rapidly navigate through this document

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

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

For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002

or

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

For the transition period from                              to                             

Commission File No. 1-9344

AIRGAS, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware	56-0732648
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
259 North Radnor-Chester Road, Suite 100 Radnor, Pennsylvania	19087-5283
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

(610) 687-5253
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

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

Title of Each Class	Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share	New York Stock Exchange

        Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act: None.

        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 ý    No o

        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. o

        The aggregate market value of the 64,925,699 shares of voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was approximately $1.11 billion computed by reference to the closing price of such stock on the New York Stock Exchange on June 17, 2002. For purposes of this calculation, only executive officers and directors were deemed to be affiliates.

        The number of shares of common stock outstanding as of June 17, 2002 was 70,975,662.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

        The Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held July 31, 2002 is partially incorporated by reference into Part III. Those portions of the Proxy Statement included in response to Item 402(k) and Item 402(l) of Regulation S-K are not incorporated by reference into Part III.

AIRGAS, INC.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item No.		Page
PART I
1.	Business	3
	General	3
	Distribution	3
	Gas Operations	4
	Airgas Growth Strategies	5
	Regulatory and Environmental Matters	6
	Insurance	6
	Employees	6
	Patents, Trademarks and Licenses	6
	Executive Officers of the Company	7
2.	Properties	8
3.	Legal Proceedings	9
4.	Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders	9
PART II
5.	Market for the Company's Common Stock and Related Stockholder Matters	10
6.	Selected Financial Data	11
7.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	13
7A.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	30
8.	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	32
9.	Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	32
PART III
10.	Directors and Executive Officers of the Company	32
11.	Executive Compensation	32
12.	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management	32
13.	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions	32
PART IV
14.	Exhibits, Financial Statements Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K	33
Signatures		36

2

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.

GENERAL

        Airgas, Inc. and subsidiaries ("Airgas" or the "Company") is the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases (delivered in "packaged" or cylinder form), and welding, safety and related products ("hardgoods"). Airgas also produces dry ice, liquid carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and specialty gases for distribution throughout the United States. Airgas' integrated network of approximately 800 locations includes branches, retail stores, packaged gas fill plants, specialty gas labs, production facilities and distribution centers. Airgas also distributes its products and services to its diversified customer base through eBusiness, catalog and telemarketing channels. Sales were $1.64 billion, $1.63 billion, and $1.54 billion in fiscal years 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively.

        The Company's two operating segments are Distribution and Gas Operations. Financial information by business segment can be found in Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" ("MD&A"), and Note 23 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." Descriptions of the operating segments are as follows:

DISTRIBUTION

        The Distribution segment accounts for approximately 90% of consolidated sales and reflects the distribution of industrial, medical and specialty gases, and hardgoods. The Distribution segment also includes the equity affiliate earnings related to the Company's investment in National Welders Supply Company, Inc., which is a producer and distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases and hardgoods.

Principal Products and Services

        The Distribution segment's principal products and services include packaged and small bulk gases, gas cylinder and welding equipment rental and hardgoods. Gas sales include industrial, medical and specialty gases such as: nitrogen, oxygen, argon, helium, acetylene, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, hydrogen, welding gases, ultra high purity grades and special application blends. Rent is derived from gas cylinders, cryogenic liquid containers, bulk storage tanks and through the rental of welding equipment. Gas and rent represented approximately 47%, 44%, and 42% of the Distribution segment's sales in each of the fiscal years 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Hardgoods consist of welding supplies and equipment, safety products, and industrial tools and supplies. In each of the fiscal years 2002, 2001, and 2000, hardgoods sales represented approximately 53%, 56%, and 58% of the Distribution segment's sales, respectively (see Note 23 of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding segment sales).

Principal Markets and Methods of Distribution

        The Company believes the market for industrial, medical and specialty gases in the United States is approximately $9.4 billion annually. The industry has three principal modes of distribution: on-site supply, bulk or merchant supply and cylinder ("packaged gas") supply. In the U.S. market, on-site supply accounts for approximately 25% of sales, bulk or merchant supply accounts for approximately 35% of sales, and packaged gas supply accounts for the remaining 40% or $3.8 billion in sales. Airgas' market focus has been on the packaged gas segment of the market and on small bulk customers. Generally, packaged gas distributors also distribute welding products. The Company believes the U.S. market for welding products to be approximately $3.9 billion annually.

        Airgas is the largest distributor of packaged gases and welding products in the United States with approximately a 19% market share. The Company's competitors in this market are approximately 900

3

independent distributors that serve approximately 50% of the market through a fragmented distribution network. Large distributors, including vertically integrated gas producers such as Praxair, Inc. ("Praxair"), Liquid Air Corporation of America ("Air Liquide"), and BOC Gases Group ("BOC Gases"), serve the remaining 31% of the packaged gas market. The Company also sells safety equipment. The United States market for safety equipment is approximately $6 billion, of which Airgas' share is approximately 4%.

Customer Base

        The Company's customer base is broad and includes many major industries. The Company estimates the following industry segments account for the indicated percentages of the Company's total sales:

•

Manufacturing (50%)—principally producers of fabricated metal products (13%), industrial and transportation equipment (9%), chemical products (6%), primary metal products (6%), and food and beverage manufacturing (4%);

•

Service Sector (13%)—principally medical and health services (8%);

•

Wholesale Trade (9%),

•

Agriculture and Mining (7%);

•

Construction (7%);

•

Retail Consumer Establishments (6%);

•

Transportation and Utilities (4%); and

•

All Other (4%).

Suppliers

        The Company purchases industrial, medical and specialty gases pursuant to requirements contracts from national and regional producers of industrial gases. In connection with the acquisition of the U.S. packaged gas operations of Air Products and Chemical ("Air Products"), the Company entered into a 15-year supply agreement under which Air Products will supply at least 35% of the Company's bulk liquid nitrogen, oxygen and argon requirements. Additionally, the Company will purchase helium from Air Products under the terms of the supply agreement. The Company also manufactures certain gases, including acetylene, nitrous oxide, nitrogen, oxygen and argon. The Company believes, that if a contractual arrangement with any supplier of gases or other raw materials was terminated, it would be able to locate alternative sources of supply without disruption of service. The Company purchases hardgoods from major manufacturers and suppliers. For certain products, the Company has negotiated national purchasing arrangements. The Company believes that if an arrangement with any supplier of hardgoods was terminated, it would be able to arrange comparable alternative supply arrangements.

GAS OPERATIONS

        The Gas Operations segment produces and distributes certain gas products, principally dry ice, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and specialty gases. The Company also operates two air separation plants that produce oxygen, nitrogen and argon which are sold to on-site customers and to the Distribution segment. A description of the businesses included in the Gas Operations segment are as follows:

Dry Ice

        The Company is a producer and distributor of dry ice in the United States. Customers include food processors, food service, pharmaceutical and biotech industries, wholesale trade and grocery and other retail outlets. The dry ice business generally experiences a higher level of sales during the warmer

4

months. The Company's carbon dioxide requirements (dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide) are purchased from the vertically integrated producers of carbon dioxide and from internal production sources.

Carbon Dioxide

        The Company is a producer and distributor of liquid carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide requirements are met by eight Company-owned production facilities, a 50%-owned joint venture and purchases from vertically integrated gas producers of carbon dioxide. The joint venture also produces and sells liquid carbon dioxide to other producers of industrial gases. The Company believes the United States bulk supply market for liquid carbon dioxide is approximately $475 million annually. The largest customer segments include chemical producers and manufacturers of foods and beverages. The Company primarily competes with three major carbon dioxide companies, Praxair, BOC Gases and Air Liquide, which produce over 70% of the merchant carbon dioxide volumes in the United States.

Specialty and Other Gases

        The Company operates 8 National labs, full scale testing and blending facilities, which blend various special application gas mixes, ultra high purity grade gases, pure hydrocarbon mixtures, EPA protocol gases, and vehicle emission standard gases. Gas mixtures are used in process control, final product qualification and emissions monitoring. Specialty gases produced are primarily sold to the Distribution segment (see Note 23 of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosure related to segment sales). The third-party customer base for these products consists primarily of environmental-related businesses, manufacturers of electronics, governmental entities, petroleum refiners, pharmaceutical companies and automotive businesses. Gas Operations also provides technical support to 54 regional labs, limited scale testing and blending facilities, which are operated by the Distribution segment. The national and regional labs perform testing and certification services for gas purity.

Nitrous Oxide

        The Company is a manufacturer of nitrous oxide gas. Nitrous oxide is used as an anesthetic in the medical and dental fields, as a propellant in the packaged food business and is utilized in the manufacturing process of certain high technology electronics industries. The Company's market focus includes bulk customers as well as sales to the Distribution segment. The Company purchases the raw materials utilized in its nitrous oxide production pursuant to contracts with major manufacturers and suppliers.

Suppliers

        The Company believes that if a contractual arrangement with any Gas Operations segment supplier was terminated, it would not have a material adverse effect on operations. However, two of the Company's 15 dry ice production facilities are located on property owned by BOC Gases. If the current arrangements with BOC Gases were terminated, the Company's dry ice production capabilities may be reduced.

AIRGAS GROWTH STRATEGIES

        The Company's strategic objectives are to establish itself as the low-cost supplier in the industry and drive market-leading sales growth by leveraging its national distribution infrastructure. To meet these objectives, the Company has established the following strategic initiatives:

•

increasing market penetration by growing the strategic account business (sales to large customers with multiple locations), increasing account penetration by selling more products to existing customers, strengthening sales leadership training and leveraging the market presence of acquisitions; migrating customers to the appropriate distribution channel by leveraging the Company's safety telesales capabilities, expanding its second-generation eBusiness capability and providing sales training on channel management;

5

•

improving supply chain efficiencies through optimizing the routing and scheduling of trucks, more efficient cylinder filling and management, controlling procurement and enhancing the operations of the Company's five regional distribution centers;

•

implementing redesigned business processes that standardize and centralize certain support functions of the Company's matrix organization structure; and

•

Acquiring core packaged gas distribution.

        These strategic objectives are designed to facilitate organic sales and earnings growth. The Company will also continue to supplement its internal growth strategies through core business acquisitions.

REGULATORY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

        The Company's subsidiaries are subject to federal and state laws and regulations adopted for the protection of the environment and the health and safety of employees and users of the Company's products. The Company has programs for the operation and design of its facilities to achieve compliance with applicable environmental regulations. The Company believes that it is in compliance, in all material respects, with such laws and regulations. Expenditures for environmental purposes during fiscal 2002 were not material.

INSURANCE

        The Company has established insurance programs to cover workers' compensation, business automobile, general and products liability. These programs have self-insured retention of $500,000 per occurrence and an aggregate limit of $1.5 million of claims in excess of $500,000. The Company accrues estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on the Company's historical loss experience.

EMPLOYEES

        On March 31, 2002, the Company employed approximately 8,500 employees of whom approximately 5% were covered by collective bargaining agreements. The Company believes it has good relations with its employees and has not experienced a significant strike or work stoppage in over ten years.

PATENTS, TRADEMARKS AND LICENSES

        The Company holds trademark registrations for "Airgas," "Red-D-Arc," "RED-D-ARC WELDERENTAL," "Gold Gas," "Stainless Mix," "Steelmix," "Alummix," "Powersource," and "VAWELD." The Company has trademarks pending for "RADNOR," "RADNOR Industrial Products," "RADNOR Safety Products," and "RADNOR Welding Products," its private-label product brands. The Company believes that its businesses as a whole are not materially dependent upon any single patent, trademark or license.

6

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY

        The executive officers of the Company are as follows:

Name	Age	Position
Peter McCausland(1)	52	Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Glenn M. Fischer	51	President and Chief Operating Officer
Roger F. Millay	44	Senior Vice President—Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Andrew R. Cichocki	39	Senior Vice President—Human Resources
Robert A. Dougherty	44	Senior Vice President—Information Services and Chief Information Officer
Gordon L. Keen, Jr.	57	Senior Vice President—Law and Corporate Development
Michael L. Molinini	51	Senior Vice President—Hardgoods Operations
Ted R. Schulte	51	Senior Vice President—Gas Operations
Patrick M. Visintainer	38	Senior Vice President—Sales
Alfred B. Crichton	54	Division President—West
B. Shaun Powers	50	Division President—East
Dean A. Bertolino	33	Vice President and General Counsel

(1)

Member of the Board of Directors

        Mr. McCausland has been Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since May 1987. Mr. McCausland has also served as President from June 1986 to August 1988, from April 1993 to November 1995, and from April 1997 to December 1998. In May 1997, Mr. McCausland was elected to the board of directors of Hercules Inc., a worldwide manufacturer of chemical specialty products. He also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships.

        Mr. Fischer has been President and Chief Operating Officer since November 2000. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Fischer served as President of BOC Gases—North America from 1997 to 2000 and as Executive Vice President of BOC Gases—Americas from 1995 to 1997.

        Mr. Millay has been Senior Vice President—Finance and Chief Financial Officer since November 1999. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Millay served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Transport International Pool, a division of General Electric Capital Corporation, from May 1995 to October 1999.

        Mr. Cichocki was appointed Senior Vice President—Human Resources in May 2002. Prior to that time, Mr. Cichocki served as Senior Vice President—Project One from February 2001 to April 2002, Senior Vice President—Business Operations and Planning from January 1999 to January 2001, Vice President—Corporate Development from April 1997 to December 1998 and as Assistant Vice President—Corporate Development from August 1992 to March 1997. In his current position, Mr. Cichocki replaced Mr. Giangrasso who had served as Senior Vice President—Human Resources since May 2001.

        Mr. Dougherty has been Senior Vice President—Information Services and Chief Information Officer since joining Airgas in January 2001. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Dougherty served as Vice President and Chief Information Officer from August 1998 to December 2000 and as Director of Information Systems from November 1993 to July 1998 of Subaru of America, Inc.

        Mr. Keen has been Senior Vice President—Law and Corporate Development since April 1997. Prior to that time, Mr. Keen served as Vice President—Corporate Development from January 1992 to March 1997.

        Mr. Molinini has been Senior Vice President—Hardgoods Operations since August 2000. Prior to that time, Mr. Molinini served as Vice President—Hardgoods Operations from August 1999 to

7

July 2000 and as Vice President—Airgas Direct Industrial from April 1997 to July 1999. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Molinini served as Vice President of Marketing of National Welders Supply Company since 1991.

        Mr. Schulte has been Senior Vice President—Gas Operations since August 2000. Prior to that time, Mr. Schulte served as Vice President—Gas Operations from November 1998 to July 2000 and as President of Airgas Carbonic from November 1997 to October 1998. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Schulte served as Senior Vice President of Energetic Solutions, the US subsidiary of ICI Explosives, from June 1997 to October 1997 and as Vice President Industrial Gas Sales of Arcadian Corporation from 1992 through June 1997.

        Mr. Visintainer has been Senior Vice President—Sales since January 1999. Prior to that time, Mr. Visintainer served as Vice President—Sales and Marketing from February 1998 to December 1998 and as President of one of the Company's subsidiaries from April 1996 to January 1998. Until March 1996, he was employed by BOC Gases and served in various field positions including National Sales Manager—Industrial/Specialty Gases and National Accounts Manager.

        Mr. Crichton has been Division President—West since February 1993. Prior to that time, Mr. Crichton served in various leadership positions since joining the Company in 1988 and has more than 30 years of experience in the industrial gas industry.

        Mr. Powers has been Division President—East since joining Airgas in April 2001. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Powers served as Senior Vice President of Industrial Gases at AGA from October 1995 to March 2001. Mr. Powers' career also includes 17 years with Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. where he served in various leadership positions.

        Mr. Bertolino has been Vice President and General Counsel since December 2001. Prior to joining Airgas, Mr. Bertolino served as Assistant General Counsel of The BOC Group, Inc. from 1999 to 2001 and as an Associate with the law firm of Brown & Wood LLP from 1994 to 1999.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.

        The principal executive offices of the Company are located in leased space in Radnor, Pennsylvania.

        The Company's Distribution segment operates a network of multiple use facilities consisting of approximately 610 branch stores, 54 regional gas laboratories, 17 acetylene manufacturing facilities, 5 regional distribution centers, 180 cylinder fill plants and various customer call centers. The Distribution segment conducts business in 46 states. The Company owns approximately 28% of these facilities. The remaining facilities are primarily leased from third parties. A limited number of facilities leased from employees are on terms consistent with commercial rental rates prevailing in the surrounding rental market.

        The Company's Gas Operations' segment consists of businesses, located throughout the United States, which operate approximately 40 branch locations, 8 liquid carbon dioxide and 15 dry ice production facilities, 2 air separation plants, 8 national gas laboratories, and 3 nitrous oxide production facilities. The Company owns approximately 25% of these facilities. The remaining facilities are leased from third parties.

        The Company's distribution network was expanded through the addition of 88 locations acquired from Air Products during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002. The additional facilities are included in the description above.

        During fiscal 2002, the Company's production facilities operated at approximately 75% of capacity based on an average daily production shift of 16 hours.

        The Company believes that its facilities are adequate for its present needs and that its properties are generally in good condition, well maintained and suitable for their intended use.

8

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

        In July 1996, Praxair, Inc. ("Praxair") filed suit against the Company in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, alleging tortious interference with business or contractual relations with respect to Praxair's right of first refusal agreement with the majority shareholders of National Welders Supply Company, Inc. ("National Welders") in connection with the Company's formation of a joint venture with National Welders. In June 1998, Praxair filed a motion to dismiss its own action in Alabama and commenced another action in the Superior Court of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, alleging substantially the same tortious interference by the Company. The North Carolina action also alleged breach of contract against National Welders and certain shareholders of National Welders and unfair trade practices and conspiracy against all the defendants. In April 2002, the Company and Praxair entered into an agreement to settle the litigation in order to avoid the time and expense of a lengthy trial. Each party denied any wrongdoing or liability and Praxair agreed to an early termination of the right of first refusal. As a result of the settlement, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company recorded a charge to earnings, net of previously established reserves related to the litigation, of $8.5 million. In fiscal 2001, the Company recorded a charge of $6.9 million for costs associated with defending the Praxair lawsuit.

        In fiscal 1997, the Company announced it was the victim of a fraudulent breach of contract by a third-party supplier of refrigerant gases and recorded a special charge related to product losses and costs associated with the Company's efforts to investigate the fraud and pursue recoveries. In March 2001, the Company reached a final settlement with its insurance carriers resulting in insurance recoveries of $4 million. The insurance settlement, net of associated legal expenses, was reflected in special charge recoveries in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings included in Item 8.

        In fiscal 2000, the Company recorded a $7.5 million charge representing an estimate of the overall costs associated with the defense and settlement of certain class action lawsuits pertaining to hazardous material charges paid to the Company by customers. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, a settlement agreement and approving court orders covering all such class actions against the Company became final, and the Company reversed $1.1 million of the previously accrued defense and settlement costs.

        The Company is involved in various legal and regulatory proceedings that have arisen in the ordinary course of its business and have not been fully adjudicated. These actions, when ultimately concluded and determined, will not, in the opinion of management, have a material adverse effect upon the Company's consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

        No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002.

9

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE COMPANY'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

        The Company's common stock (the "common stock") is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: ARG). The following table sets forth, for each quarter during the last two fiscal years, the high and low closing price per share for the common stock as reported by the New York Stock Exchange:

	High		Low
Fiscal 2002
First Quarter	$	11.90	$	7.52
Second Quarter		14.31		10.34
Third Quarter		15.65		12.79
Fourth Quarter		20.61		14.54
Fiscal 2001
First Quarter	$	8.31	$	4.63
Second Quarter		6.81		5.13
Third Quarter		8.44		5.88
Fourth Quarter		9.70		6.75

        The closing sale price of the Company's common stock as reported by the New York Stock Exchange on June 17, 2002, was $17.10 per share. As of June 17, 2002, there were approximately 21,500 shareholders of record of the Company's common stock.

        The present policy of the Company is to retain earnings to provide funds for the operation and expansion of its business and not to pay cash dividends on its common stock. Any payment of future dividends and the amounts thereof will depend upon the Company's earnings, financial condition, loan covenants, capital requirements and other factors deemed relevant by management and the Company's Board of Directors.

10

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

        Selected financial data for the Company are presented in the table below and should be read in conjunction with Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in Item 7 and the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in Item 8 herein.

(In thousands, except per share amounts):

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002(1)			2001(2)		2000(3)			1999(4)			1998(5)
Operating Results:
Net sales	$	1,636,047		$	1,628,901	$	1,542,334		$	1,561,218		$	1,447,990
Depreciation and amortization(6)		72,945			86,754		89,308			87,926			76,670
Special charges (recoveries), net		—			3,643		(2,829	)		(1,000	)		4,950
Operating income		125,033			107,949		106,731			112,996			118,948
Interest expense, net		47,013			60,207		57,560			60,298			53,290
Discount on securitization of trade receivables		4,846			1,303		—			—			—
Other income, net		1,382			242		17,862			26,621			1,940
Income taxes		29,806			20,718		31,551			34,437			29,989
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		(59,000	)		—		(590	)		—			—
Net earnings (loss)		(10,415	)		28,223		38,283			51,924			40,540
Basic earnings (loss) per share	$	(.15	)	$	.43	$	.55		$	.74		$	.59
Diluted earnings (loss) per share	$	(.15	)	$	.42	$	.54		$	.72		$	.57
Balance Sheet Data:
Working capital	$	82,212		$	53,690	$	189,194		$	165,416		$	141,276
Total assets		1,717,057			1,581,290		1,739,331			1,698,472			1,641,474
Current portion of long-term debt		2,456			72,945		20,071			19,645			12,150
Long-term debt		764,124			620,664		857,422			847,841			830,845
Other non-current liabilities		30,343			22,446		28,998			23,585			36,842
Stockholders' equity(7)		503,086			496,849		472,507			470,945			426,873
Capital expenditures		58,297			65,910		65,211			101,638			124,725

(1)

As discussed in "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and in the notes to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, the results for fiscal 2002 include: (a) a non-cash after-tax charge of $59 million as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the write-down of goodwill to its fair value; (b) a litigation charge of $8.5 million ($5.7 million after-tax) related to the Praxair litigation settlement; and (c) a net non-recurring gain of $1.9 million ($120 thousand after-tax) related to divestitures and a write-down of a business held for sale to its net realizable value.

(2)

As discussed in "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and in the notes to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, the results for fiscal 2001 include: (a) net special charges of $3.6 million ($2.3 million after-tax), (b) litigation charges, net, of $5.3 million ($3.4 million after-tax), and (c) asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates of $700 thousand after-tax. The decrease in working capital was partially attributable to a trade receivables securitization program entered into during fiscal 2001 and the classification of $50 million of medium-term notes maturing September 2001 as a component of "Current Liabilities." Cash proceeds of approximately $73.2 million from the securitization program were used to reduce long-term debt.

11

(3)

As discussed in "Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and in the notes to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, the results for fiscal 2000 include: (a) special charge recoveries of $2.8 million ($1.7 million after-tax), (b) divestiture gains of $17.5 million ($8.6 million after-tax), (c) a litigation charge of $7.5 million ($4.8 million after-tax), (d) an inventory write-down of $3.8 million ($2.2 million after-tax), and (e) an after-tax charge of $590 thousand representing a change in accounting principle.

(4)

The results for fiscal 1999 include: (a) special charge recoveries of $1.0 million ($575 thousand after-tax), (b) divestiture gains of $25.5 million ($15 million after-tax), and (c) a $1.8 million after-tax non-recurring gain relating to insurance proceeds recorded by an equity affiliate.

(5)

The results for fiscal 1998 include: (a) special charges of $22.4 million ($14.3 million after-tax) which consisted of severance, exit costs for the closure of duplicate facilities, the impairment write-down of property, equipment and related goodwill and a write-down related to the divestiture of several non-core businesses, offset by a one-time net gain related to an acquisition break-up fee of $3 million ($1.9 million after-tax), (b) a non-recurring gain of $14.5 million ($9.4 million after-tax) from the partial recovery of refrigerant losses, and (c) a non-recurring gain of $1.5 million ($980 thousand after-tax) on the sale of a non-core business.

(6)

Fiscal 2002 excludes the amortization of goodwill in accordance with SFAS 142.

(7)

The Company has not paid any dividends on its common stock.

12

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

ITEM 7.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: 2002 COMPARED TO 2001

OVERVIEW

        The Company's net sales for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2002 were $1.64 billion compared to $1.63 billion in the prior year. Fiscal 2002 was marked by continued slowing of the U.S. economy, particularly in relation to industrial and manufacturing markets. Despite the weak economic environment, the Company was successful in maintaining sales through its focus on strategic sales initiatives, including account penetration through the sale of safety products and sales to strategic account customers. The Company also continued to implement selective price increases and a discount and contract management program during fiscal 2002 that helped offset rising costs related to purchased gases, personnel costs, insurance and process improvement initiatives. Excluding the effect of the items outlined below, net earnings were $.78 per diluted share in fiscal 2002 compared to $.72 per diluted share in fiscal 2001, adjusted for comparative purposes to exclude the amortization of goodwill. Results as reported in fiscal 2002 were a net loss of $10.4 million, or a loss of $.15 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $28.2 million, or $.42 per diluted share, in fiscal 2001.

        As discussed in the "Income Statement Commentary" below, fiscal 2002 results were affected by the following:

•

a non-cash after-tax charge of $59 million representing the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle,



•

a litigation settlement charge of $8.5 million ($5.7 million after-tax), and



•

a net non-recurring gain of $1.9 million ($120 thousand after-tax) resulting from divestitures and a write down of a business held for sale to its net realizable value.

        Fiscal 2001 results were affected by the following:

•

net special charges of $3.6 million ($2.3 million after-tax),



•

litigation charges, net, of $5.3 million ($3.4 million after-tax), and



•

asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates of $700 thousand after-tax.

        Fiscal 2002 was a significant year for the Company. In February 2002, the Company completed the largest acquisition in its 20-year history with the acquisition of the majority of Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.'s ("Air Products") U.S. packaged gas business for cash of $241 million, including transaction costs, (the "Air Products acquisition"). The acquisition included 88 locations in 30 states associated with the filling and distribution of cylinders, liquid dewars, tube trailers, and other containers of industrial gases and non-electronic specialty gases, and the selling of welding hardgoods. The acquired business generates annual sales of approximately $223 million and employs nearly 1,100 people. The Company expects that the Air Products acquisition will be accretive to earnings and return on capital in fiscal 2003. In September 2001, the Company also acquired six distributor locations from Air Liquide America Corporation ("Air Liquide") for $11 million. In a separate transaction in October 2001, the Company sold two of its nitrous oxide facilities to Air Liquide for cash proceeds of $10 million.

        The Company entered into an agreement with Praxair, Inc. ("Praxair") settling the litigation brought by Praxair against the Company in July 1996. The litigation alleged tortious interference with Praxair's right of first refusal agreement with National Welders Supply Company, Inc. The parties

13

entered into the settlement agreement in order to avoid the time and expense of a lengthy trial, which was scheduled to begin in July 2002. The settlement resulted in the Company recognizing a charge of $8.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002.

        In July 2001, the Company refinanced its revolving credit facilities to extend the term to 2006. Concurrent with the financing, the Company issued $225 million of 9.125% senior subordinated notes. In conjunction with the Air Products acquisition, the Company also obtained a $100 million term loan from a syndicate of lenders. These transactions enabled the Company to finance the Air Products acquisition entirely with senior bank debt. In fiscal 2002, exclusive of acquisition and divestiture activity and the Company's trade receivables securitization, the Company reduced total debt by $118 million. The ability to reduce debt is indicative of the strong cash flow characteristics of the Company's business.

        On April 1, 2001, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. SFAS 142 requires goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives to no longer be amortized, but instead be tested for impairment at least annually. With the adoption of SFAS 142, the Company used new criteria to assess whether goodwill associated with its business units was impaired. The valuation indicated that goodwill associated with the Company's tool business was impaired, which resulted in the recognition of a $59 million non-cash charge as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. The impaired goodwill was not deductible for taxes, and accordingly, no tax benefit was recorded in relation to the charge.

        As prescribed by SFAS 142, fiscal 2002 results exclude the amortization of goodwill. For comparability to prior periods, certain discussions in the Management's Discussion and Analysis present fiscal 2001 results adjusted to exclude the amortization of goodwill. The actual results as reported in fiscal 2001 are presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8. Additionally, Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements provides a reconciliation between the fiscal 2001 reported results and the adjusted results discussed in the Management's Discussion and Analysis.

INCOME STATEMENT COMMENTARY

Net Sales

        Net sales increased 0.4% in fiscal 2002 compared to 2001, reflecting same-store sales growth of 0.2%. The Company calculates same-store sales based on a comparison of current period sales to prior period sales, adjusted for acquisitions and divestitures.

	2002		2001		Increase
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	1,494,267	$	1,487,422	$	6,845	0.5	%
Gas Operations		141,780		141,479		301	0.2	%
	$	1,636,047	$	1,628,901	$	7,146	0.4	%

        The Distribution segment's principal products and services include industrial, medical and specialty gases, equipment rental and hardgoods. Industrial gases consist of packaged and small bulk gases. Equipment rental fees are generally charged on cylinders, cryogenic liquid containers, bulk tanks and welding equipment. Hardgoods consist of welding supplies and equipment, safety products, and industrial tools and supplies. Sales of the Distribution segment increased $6.8 million driven by acquisitions partially offset by a decline in same-store sales. Fiscal 2002 acquisitions contributed sales of $22.6 million. Distribution same-store sales decreased $15.8 million (-0.6%) resulting from a decline in hardgoods same-store sales of $59.9 million (-6.7%), partially offset by gas and rent sales growth of $44.1 million (7.1%). The decline in hardgoods same-store sales resulted from lower sales volumes of

14

industrial tools and welding products reflecting the weak industrial and manufacturing environment, particularly with regard to metal fabrication and machinery industries. The decrease in hardgoods sales was correlated with the decline in non-tech industrial production during fiscal 2002. Partially offsetting the decline in tools and welding hardgoods, sales of safety products grew 4% to $258 million compared to the prior year reflecting continued success of account penetration initiatives and growth through the Company's telemarketing sales channel. Gas and rent same-store sales growth was driven by price increases during the year in response to rising costs and by growth derived from strategic sales initiatives. Growth in strategic gas sales was driven by higher volumes of medical, specialty and bulk gases. Rental revenue was also favorably impacted by a 12% increase in welder equipment rentals from the Company's expansion of its rental welder fleet. Sales to strategic account customers (sales to large customers with multiple locations) grew 10% to $165 million in fiscal 2002 reflecting the Company's success in leveraging its broad distribution network to service large customers. The Company has followed a strategy of focusing on strategic sales initiatives to drive sales growth and market penetration in the industries that it serves.

        The Gas Operations segment's sales primarily include dry ice and carbon dioxide that are used for cooling and the production of food, beverages and chemical products. In addition, the segment includes businesses that produce and distribute specialty gases and nitrous oxide. Gas Operations' sales were flat as same-store sales growth was offset by divestiture activity. Same-store sales increased $7.4 million (5.9%) driven by price increases to help offset rising costs and higher volumes of liquid carbon dioxide and dry ice. Divestiture activity consisted of the sale of two nitrous oxide plants in fiscal 2002 and the divestiture of the Jackson Dome carbon dioxide reserves and associated pipeline (the "Jackson Dome pipeline") in January 2001.

Gross Profits

        Gross profits, excluding depreciation expense, increased 4.6% in fiscal 2002 compared to 2001. The gross profit margin increased 200 basis points to 50% in fiscal 2002 as compared to 48% in the prior year.

	2002		2001		Increase
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	724,173	$	689,999	$	34,174	5.0	%
Gas Operations		93,121		91,702		1,419	1.5	%
	$	817,294	$	781,701	$	35,593	4.6	%

        Distribution gross profits increased $34.2 million from both same-store gross profit growth and acquisition activity. The Distribution segment's gross profit margin of 48.5% in fiscal 2002 increased 210 basis points from 46.4% in the prior year. The improved margin was primarily due to a shift in sales mix towards higher margin gas and rent sales as well as price increases and a discount management program. The shift in sales mix was driven principally by strategic sales initiatives and declining hardgoods sales. Gas and rent comprised 47.3% of Distribution sales compared to 43.5% in the prior year.

        Gas Operations' gross profits increased $1.4 million primarily from same-store gross profit growth of $5.5 million partially offset by divestiture activity. Same-store gross profit growth reflected higher volumes and pricing for liquid carbon dioxide and dry ice. Gas Operations' gross profit margin of 65.7% increased 90 basis points from 64.8% in the prior year, reflecting volume gains leveraging fixed manufacturing costs and price increases.

15

Operating Expenses

        Selling, distribution and administrative expenses ("SD&A") consist of personnel and related costs, distribution and warehouse costs, occupancy expenses and other selling, general and administrative expenses. SD&A expenses increased $36 million (6.2%) compared to the prior fiscal year primarily from net acquisition and divestiture activity and higher costs associated with personnel, health and workers' compensation insurance, costs associated with the Company's Project One initiative and litigation. The Project One initiative began in the second half of fiscal 2001 and is focused on improving certain operational and administrative processes. On a same-store basis, SD&A expenses increased by approximately $27 million (5%) in fiscal 2002 compared to fiscal 2001. Higher litigation costs resulted from a litigation settlement, discussed below. As a percentage of net sales, SD&A expenses increased 210 basis points to 37.9% from 35.8% in fiscal 2001.

        Litigation costs were $11 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $7.5 million in fiscal 2001. Fiscal 2002 included a charge of $8.5 million, net of previously established reserves, to settle litigation brought by Praxair, a competitor, against the Company in July 1996. Fiscal 2001 included a charge of $6.9 million for costs to defend against the lawsuit brought by Praxair.

        Amortization expense was $8.2 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $23.8 million in fiscal 2001. On April 1, 2001, the Company adopted SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Under the new pronouncement, goodwill is no longer amortized, but instead is tested for impairment at least annually. Fiscal 2002 amortization expense relates to non-competition agreements, which are amortized over the terms of the respective agreements. Depreciation expense of $64.8 million in fiscal 2002 increased 3% compared to fiscal 2001.

Operating Income

        Operating income increased 2.2% in fiscal 2002 as compared to 2001, adjusted to exclude the amortization of goodwill. Fiscal 2001 operating income reflects special charges, net, of $3.6 million consisting of a charge associated with a cost reduction plan partially offset by a special charge recovery from an insurance settlement. Excluding special charges in fiscal 2001, operating income decreased approximately 1% in fiscal 2002.

	2002		2001(a)			Increase (Decrease)					As Reported 2001
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	103,430	$	104,506		$	(1,076	)	(1.0	)%	$	92,186
Gas Operations		21,603		21,523			80		0.4	%		19,406
Special Charges		—		(3,643	)		3,643		—			(3,643	)
	$	125,033	$	122,386		$	2,647		2.2	%	$	107,949

(a)

Fiscal 2001 operating income has been adjusted for comparative purposes to exclude the amortization of goodwill in connection with the fiscal 2002 adoption of SFAS 142.

        The Distribution segment's operating income margin of 6.9% in fiscal 2002 decreased slightly from 7.0% in fiscal 2001, as adjusted. The relatively stable operating income margin year over year reflected the Company's success in raising prices to offset higher operating expenses.

        The Gas Operations segment's operating income margin was flat at 15.2% in both fiscal 2002 and fiscal 2001, as adjusted. Higher gross profits from volume and price increases in fiscal 2002 offset the divestiture of the Jackson Dome pipeline and the two nitrous oxide plants, both of which had higher than average operating margins reflected in the prior year's results.

16

Interest Expense and Discount on Securitization of Trade Receivables

        Interest expense, net, and the discount on securitization of trade receivables totaled $51.9 million representing a decrease of $9.7 million (-15.7%) compared to the prior fiscal year. The decrease resulted primarily from lower average debt levels. The decrease in average debt levels was attributable to cash flow provided from operations and proceeds from the divestiture of the Jackson Dome pipeline in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001. Although the Air Products acquisition increased debt levels at the end of fiscal 2002, average debt levels during fiscal 2002 were approximately $130 million lower than fiscal 2001. Weighted-average financing costs were slightly lower in the current year compared to the prior year as higher rates of fixed cost debt associated with the Company's July 2001 debt refinancing were offset by lower prevailing market rates related to variable rate debt.

        The Company participates in a securitization agreement with two commercial banks to sell up to $175 million of qualifying trade receivables. The amount of outstanding receivables under the agreement was $134 million and $73 million at March 31, 2002 and March 31, 2001, respectively. Net proceeds from the sale of trade receivables were used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities. The discount on the securitization of trade receivables represents the difference between the carrying value of the receivables and the proceeds from their sale. The amount of the discount varies on a monthly basis depending on the amount of receivables sold and market rates.

        As discussed in "Liquidity and Capital Resources" and in Item 7A "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk," the Company manages its exposure to interest rate risk of certain borrowings through participation in interest rate swap agreements. Including the effect of the interest rate swap agreements, the Company's ratio of fixed to variable interest rates at March 31, 2002 was 48% fixed to 52% variable. A majority of the Company's variable rate debt is based on a spread over the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). Based on the Company's outstanding variable rate debt and credit rating at March 31, 2002, for every increase in LIBOR of 25 basis points, it is estimated that the Company's annual interest expense would increase approximately $1 million.

Other Income, net

        Other income, net, totaled $1.4 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $242 thousand in fiscal 2001. Fiscal 2002 includes a net non-recurring gain of $1.9 million consisting of a $7.4 million gain on the divestiture of two nitrous oxide plants partially offset by a $3.6 million charge to write down a business unit held for sale to its net realizable value and a $1.9 million loss resulting from an indemnity claim related to a prior period divestiture.

Equity in Earnings of Unconsolidated Affiliates

        Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates of $3.8 million was relatively flat compared to $4.0 million in fiscal 2001, adjusted for comparative purposes to exclude goodwill amortization. Fiscal 2001 includes after-tax charges of $700 thousand related to asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates. Including goodwill amortization, equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates as reported in fiscal 2001 was $2.3 million.

Income Tax Expense

        The effective income tax rate was 38.0% of pre-tax earnings in fiscal 2002 compared to 35.5% in fiscal 2001, adjusted for comparative purposes for the impact of SFAS 142. The increase in the effective income tax rate in fiscal 2002 was primarily due to the $3.6 million write-down of a business unit to its net realizable value, which was not deductible for income taxes. The effective income tax rate as reported in fiscal 2001 was 42.3%.

17

Cumulative Effect of a Change in Accounting Principle

        In connection with the adoption of SFAS 142, the Company performed an evaluation of goodwill as of April 1, 2001. The results of the evaluation indicated that goodwill related to one reporting unit, the Company's tool business, was impaired. The Company measured the amount of impairment based on a comparison of the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value. Accordingly, the Company recognized a $59 million non-cash, after-tax charge, recorded as of April 1, 2001, as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the write-down of goodwill of the tool business reporting unit to its fair value. The impaired goodwill was not deductible for taxes, and as a result, no tax benefit was recorded in relation to the charge.

        On April 1, 2001, the Company adopted SFAS 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities, as amended by SFAS No. 137 and 138. SFAS 133 requires all derivatives to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. In accordance with the transition provisions of SFAS 133, the Company recorded the cumulative effect of this accounting change as a liability and a deferred loss of $6.7 million in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of stockholders' equity to recognize, at fair value, interest rate swap agreements that are designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Additionally, the Company recorded an asset and adjusted the carrying value of the hedged portion of its fixed rate debt by $6 million to recognize, at fair value, interest rate swap agreements that are designated as fair value hedging instruments

Net Earnings (Loss)

        The Company recognized a net loss in fiscal 2002 of $10.4 million, or a loss of $.15 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $28.2 million, or $.42 per diluted share, in fiscal 2001.

Air Products Acquisition Integration

        The Air Products acquisition contemplated certain integration activities to optimize the combined operations. Those activities consist of facility exit costs and employee severance related to closing duplicate or overlapping facilities and integration costs related to computer conversions, training and the cost of moving inventory and equipment. Although final cost estimates for those activities are being prepared, the costs to exit existing Airgas facilities and sever employees are expected to be between $2.5 and $3.5 million and will be recognized in a special charge in the first quarter of fiscal 2003. Integration costs are expected to be between $3.5 and $4.5 million and will be recognized in operating expenses as incurred throughout fiscal 2003.

18

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS: 2001 COMPARED TO 2000

OVERVIEW

        The Company's net sales for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2001 were $1.63 billion compared to $1.54 billion in the prior year. Despite a slowing U.S. economy, the Company experienced positive same-store sales growth of 3.1%, continuing the same-store sales growth that began in the fiscal 2000 fourth quarter. The Company's successful strategy of leveraging its distribution network to sign new strategic accounts, pursue cross-selling opportunities and promote strategic products had a favorable impact on net sales. In addition, net sales were positively affected by the prior year acquisition of Mallinckrodt Inc.'s Puritan-Bennett medical gas subsidiary ("Puritan Medical Products"). The Company also implemented price increases during fiscal 2001 that helped to offset rising costs related to purchased gases, salaries and wages, insurance, and distribution. Excluding the effect of the items outlined below, net earnings were $.52 per diluted share in both fiscal 2001 and 2000. Net earnings, as reported, for fiscal 2001 were $28.2 million, or $.42 per diluted share, compared to $38.3 million, or $.54 per diluted share, in fiscal 2000.

        As discussed in the "Income Statement Commentary" below, fiscal 2001 net earnings were affected by the following:

•

net special charges of $3.6 million ($2.3 million after-tax),



•

litigation charges, net, of $5.3 million ($3.4 million after-tax), and



•

asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates of $700 thousand after-tax.

        Fiscal 2000 net earnings were affected by the following:

•

special charge recoveries of $2.8 million ($1.7 million after-tax),



•

divestiture gains of $17.5 million ($8.6 million after-tax),



•

a litigation charge of $7.5 million ($4.8 million after-tax),



•

an inventory write-down of $3.8 million ($2.2 million after-tax), and



•

an after-tax charge of $590 thousand representing a change in accounting principle.

        Additionally in fiscal 2001, the Company reduced total debt by $183.9 million. The ability to reduce debt is indicative of the strong cash flow characteristics of the Company's business. Debt reduction resulted from cash flow from operations, divestitures and a securitization of trade receivables. Operations provided approximately $61 million, divestitures provided approximately $50 million, principally the divestiture of the Jackson Dome carbon dioxide reserves and associated pipeline ("Jackson Dome pipeline"), and the trade receivables securitization program provided approximately $73 million.

19

INCOME STATEMENT COMMENTARY

Net Sales

        Net sales increased 5.6% in fiscal 2001 compared to 2000, driven by same-store sales growth of 3.1% and prior year acquisitions included for a full year in 2001.

	2001		2000		Increase
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	1,487,422	$	1,409,949	$	77,473	5.5	%
Gas Operations		141,479		132,385		9,094	6.9	%
	$	1,628,901	$	1,542,334	$	86,567	5.6	%

        Distribution sales increased $77.5 million as a result of net acquisition and divestiture activity and same-store sales growth. Fiscal 2001 sales increased $43.8 million from seven distributor acquisitions since April 1, 1999, partially offset by a divestiture during fiscal 2000. The most significant of the acquisitions was that of Puritan Medical Products in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000. Distribution same-store sales growth of $33.7 million (2.7%) resulted from gas and rent sales growth of $28.8 million (5.1%) and hardgoods sales growth of $4.9 million (1.0%). Gas and rent same-store sales growth was primarily attributable to higher volumes of strategic products and continued success of certain sales initiatives, such as strategic accounts. Growth in strategic product sales resulted from expansion of the rental welder fleet and improvements in certain gas product sales including medical and specialty gases. Price increases implemented during fiscal 2001 also contributed to gas and rent sales growth. Hardgoods same-store sales growth was driven principally by an increase in safety sales resulting from the successful cross-selling of safety products through the Company's distribution network. Although hardgoods same-store sales growth was positive in fiscal 2001, hardgoods sales slowed in the fiscal third quarter with further contraction in the fourth quarter resulting from the slowing U.S. industrial economy.

        The Gas Operations' sales increased $9.1 million in fiscal 2001 compared to the prior year primarily from same-store sales growth (7.2%). Gas Operations' same-store sales growth resulted from higher volumes of liquid carbon dioxide, dry ice and nitrous oxide. Sales growth was also driven by price increases that were implemented during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001 to help offset the impact of higher energy and distribution costs. The reduction in sales from the divestiture of the Jackson Dome pipeline in fiscal 2001 and the divestiture of operations in Poland and Thailand in fiscal 2000 were offset by nitrous oxide production businesses that were acquired with Puritan Medical Products.

Gross Profits

        Gross profits, excluding depreciation expense, increased 7.7% in fiscal 2001 compared to 2000.

	2001		2000		Increase
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	689,999	$	649,827	$	40,172	6.2	%
Gas Operations		91,702		75,910		15,792	20.8	%
	$	781,701	$	725,737	$	55,964	7.7	%

        Distribution gross profits increased $40.2 million resulting from net acquisition and divestiture activity and same-store gross profits growth. Acquisition and divestiture activity accounted for a net increase in gross profits of $29.0 million, primarily from the acquisition of Puritan Medical Products in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000. Same-store gross profits increased $11.2 million (2.4%) compared to the prior year. Same-store gross profit growth consisted of a $14.4 million (3.7%) increase in gas and rent, partially offset by a decrease in hardgoods gross profits of $3.2 million. Same-store gross profits of

20

gas and rent increased resulting from higher sales volumes and price increases implemented during fiscal 2001. An expanded rental welder fleet also contributed to the increase in gross profits. The Distribution segment's gross profit margin of 46.4% in fiscal 2001 increased 30 basis points from 46.1% in the prior year primarily as a result of a shift in sales mix to higher margin gases. The shift in sales mix was driven principally by higher margin medical gases contributed by Puritan Medical Products. The decline in hardgoods same-store gross profits resulted from general weakness in certain manufacturing and industrial hardgoods markets served by the Company. The decline in hardgoods gross profits was partially mitigated by lower costs from centralized purchasing initiatives and continued growth of higher margin private label products. Private label products reached an annual run rate of $45 million in fiscal 2001 representing a 40% increase over the prior year.

        The Gas Operations segment's gross profits increased $15.8 million primarily from same-store gross profit growth and net acquisition activity. Same-store gross profit growth of $10.5 million (13.4%) resulted primarily from higher sales volumes and price increases of dry ice, liquid carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. Gross profits increased $1.5 million from net acquisition activity, primarily consisting of the prior year acquisition of Puritan Medical Products's nitrous oxide production businesses. In addition, the prior year was adversely affected by an inventory write-down of $3.8 million related to certain specialty gas inventories. Gas Operations' gross profit margin was 64.8% compared to 57.3% in the prior year. The gross profit margin in the prior year reflects the impact of the specialty gas inventory write-down.

Operating Expenses

        Selling, distribution and administrative expenses ("SD&A") increased $50.8 million (9.5%) compared to the prior fiscal year primarily from net acquisition and divestiture activity and higher costs associated with personnel, distribution and insurance. On a same-store basis, SD&A expenses are estimated to have increased approximately $32 million in fiscal 2001 compared to fiscal 2000. Personnel costs were affected by rising salaries and wages driven by a competitive labor market. Higher distribution costs resulted primarily from increases in the price of fuel and energy. Insurance costs were driven by rising medical costs related to workers' compensation and health insurance. The Company implemented a cost reduction plan in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001. The cost reduction plan focused on a reduction in workforce, the closure of 30 branch locations and the planned disposition of certain non-core businesses. As a percentage of net sales, SD&A expenses increased to 35.8% from 34.5% in fiscal 2000.

        Fiscal 2001 SD&A expenses included legal expenses of $7.5 million. Fiscal 2001 legal expenses reflect litigation charges of $5.3 million, net. The net litigation charges consist primarily of a fourth quarter charge of $6.9 million related to a lawsuit brought by a competitor, Praxair, Inc. The charge reflected an estimate of the costs associated with the defense of the lawsuit. The charge was partially offset by the final settlement and reversal of $1.1 million of liabilities established in fiscal 2000 associated with the defense and settlement of class-action lawsuits related to hazardous materials charges. Legal expenses for fiscal 2000 of $9.6 million included a $7.5 million litigation charge representing the Company's original estimate of the costs to defend against and settle the class-action lawsuits.

        Depreciation expense of approximately $63 million remained relatively flat compared to fiscal 2000. Amortization expense of $23.8 million decreased $1.9 million (-7.2%) compared to fiscal 2000 primarily from the expiration of non-compete agreements related to prior acquisitions.

Special Charges (Recoveries)

        Special charges in fiscal 2001 included a charge of $8.5 million related to a cost reduction plan implemented by the Company to improve operating results at certain business units as well as to

21

mitigate rising operating expenses. The fourth quarter 2001 cost reduction charge included severance costs for a reduction in workforce, exit costs for the closure of 30 branch locations and losses associated with the anticipated divestiture of certain non-core businesses. The non-core businesses to be divested generated annual sales of approximately $10 million in fiscal 2001 and were included in the Company's Distribution segment. The charge was partially offset by $4.9 million of special charge recoveries primarily consisting of a favorable insurance settlement associated with the fiscal 1997 special charge. Special charge recoveries in fiscal 2000 consist of $2.8 million primarily from a favorable insurance settlement related to the fiscal 1997 special charge.

Operating Income

        Operating income increased 1.1% in fiscal 2001 compared to 2000. Excluding special (charges) recoveries, operating income increased 7.4%.

	2001			2000		Increase (Decrease)
	(In thousands)
Distribution	$	92,186		$	94,671	$	(2,485	)	(2.6	)%
Gas Operations		19,406			9,231		10,175		110	%
Special (Charges) Recoveries		(3,643	)		2,829		(6,472	)	—
	$	107,949		$	106,731	$	1,218		1.1	%

        The Distribution segment's operating income margin of 6.2% in fiscal 2001 decreased from 6.7% in fiscal 2000 primarily due to higher operating expenses, partially offset by gross profits from same-store sales growth and acquisitions.

        The Gas Operations segment's operating income margin of 13.7% in fiscal 2001 increased from 7.0% in fiscal 2000. Fiscal 2001 results benefited from higher gross profits from same-store sales growth and price increases. The prior year was adversely affected by a $3.8 million inventory write-down of certain specialty gas inventories. Gas Operations' operating income margin was 9.8% in fiscal 2000, excluding the impact of the inventory write-down.

Interest Expense and Discount on Securitization of Trade Receivables

        Interest expense, net, and the discount on securitization of trade receivables totaled $61.5 million and represents an increase of $4 million (6.9%) compared to fiscal 2000. The increase resulted from higher average debt levels, partially offset by lower weighted-average interest rates. The increase in the average debt level in fiscal 2001 was primarily due to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000 acquisition of Puritan Medical Products as well as common stock repurchases during fiscal 2001.

        In December 2000, the Company entered into a trade receivables securitization agreement with two commercial banks. Net proceeds received by the Company through March 31, 2001 were $73.2 million and were used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities. The discount on the securitization of trade receivables of $1.3 million in fiscal 2001 represents the difference between the carrying value of the receivables and the proceeds from their sale. The amount of the discount varies on a monthly basis depending on the amount of receivables sold and market rates.

Other Income, net

        Other income, net, totaled $242 thousand in fiscal 2001 compared to $17.9 million in fiscal 2000. Fiscal 2000 includes a $14.9 million gain from the divestitures of operations in Poland and Thailand.

22

Equity in Earnings of Unconsolidated Affiliates

        Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates of $2.3 million decreased $1.1 million compared to fiscal 2000. The decrease in fiscal 2001 was primarily due to after-tax charges of $700 thousand related to asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates.

Income Tax Expense

        The effective income tax rate was 42.3% of pre-tax earnings in fiscal 2001 compared to 44.8% in 2000. Excluding the tax effect related to certain gains and special charges in both periods, the effective income tax rate was 41.1% of pre-tax earnings in fiscal 2001 compared to 41.5% in 2000.

Cumulative Effect of a Change in Accounting Principle

        Fiscal 2000 includes a charge to net earnings of $590 thousand related to the adoption of Statement of Position 98-5, "Reporting on the Costs of Start-up Activities." The charge primarily resulted from the write-off of start-up costs capitalized in prior fiscal years in connection with the Company's two air separation units.

Net Earnings

        Net earnings in fiscal 2001 were $28.2 million, or $.42 per diluted share, compared to $38.3 million, or $.54 per diluted share, in fiscal 2000.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Fiscal 2002 Cash Flows

        Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $249.4 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $199.0 million in fiscal 2001. Net earnings, adjusted for non-cash items including the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, were $159.2 million compared to $125.1 million in fiscal 2001. The sale of trade receivables under the trade receivables securitization program provided cash of $60.8 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $73.2 million in the prior year. Working capital and other assets and liabilities, net, provided cash of $29.4 million compared to $696 thousand in fiscal 2001, representing a net improvement in cash flow of $28.7 million. Working capital improvement was primarily driven by lower levels of inventory and trade receivables as well as higher outstanding accounts payable. Lower inventory levels resulted from a decline in hardgoods sales, more effective utilization of the Company's centralized distribution centers and initiatives designed to consolidate product lines and vendors. Higher outstanding accounts payable reflected an increase in days payable outstanding to 44 days from 39 days at March 31, 2001. Cash flow provided by operating activities was primarily used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities and fund capital expenditures.

        Cash used in investing activities totaled $294.7 million and primarily consisted of acquisitions and capital expenditures. Acquisitions in fiscal 2002 used cash of $252.5 million and consisted of the fourth quarter acquisition of a majority of Air Products' U.S. packaged gas business and the third quarter acquisition of six gas distributor locations from Air Liquide. Capital expenditures in fiscal 2002 of $58.3 million were 12% lower than the prior year resulting from lower cylinder purchases reflecting effective asset management initiatives. The Company anticipates fiscal 2003 capital spending will fall within a range of $75 to $80 million. Proceeds of $10.2 million were also received from the divestiture of two nitrous oxide plants during fiscal 2002.

        Financing activities provided cash of $45.3 million primarily from borrowings in relation to the Air Products acquisition. Financing activities also included the payment of $12.5 million in financing costs related to the refinancing of the Company's revolving credit facilities, issuance of senior subordinated

23

notes and a term loan obtained in relation to the Air Products acquisition. The reduction in the cash overdraft used cash of $17 million. The cash overdraft represents the balance of outstanding checks. Exclusive of acquisition and divestiture activity and the Company's trade receivables securitization, the Company reduced total debt by $118 million in fiscal 2002. The ability to reduce debt is indicative of the strong cash flow characteristics of the Company's business.

        Cash on hand at the end of each fiscal year is zero. On a daily basis, depository accounts are swept of all available funds. The funds are deposited into a concentration account through which all cash on hand is used to repay debt under the Company's revolving credit facilities.

        The Company will continue to look for appropriate acquisitions of distributors to complement its broad distribution network. Capital expenditures, current debt maturities and any future acquisitions are expected to be funded through the use of cash flow from operations, revolving credit facilities, and other financing alternatives. The Company believes that its sources of financing are adequate for its anticipated needs and that it could arrange additional sources of financing for unanticipated requirements. The cost and terms of any future financing arrangement depend on the market conditions and the Company's financial position at that time.

        The Company does not currently pay dividends.

Financial Instruments

Revolving Credit Facilities

        On July 30, 2001, the Company refinanced its revolving credit facilities due December 5, 2002. The refinanced credit facilities consist of unsecured revolving credit facilities with a syndicate of lenders totaling $367.5 million and $50 million Canadian (U.S. $32 million) under a credit agreement with a maturity date of July 30, 2006. At March 31, 2002, the Company had borrowings under the credit agreement of approximately $208 million and $35 million Canadian (U.S. $21 million). The Company also had commitments under letters of credit supported by the credit agreement of approximately $38 million at March 31, 2002. The credit agreement contains covenants that include the maintenance of certain leverage ratios, a fixed charge ratio, and potential restrictions on certain additional borrowing, the payment of dividends and the repurchase of common stock. Based on restrictions related to certain leverage ratios, the Company had additional borrowing capacity under the revolving credit facilities of approximately $105 million at March 31, 2002. The variable interest rates of the U.S. and Canadian revolving credit facilities are based on the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and Canadian Bankers' Acceptance Rates, respectively. At March 31, 2002, the effective interest rates on borrowings under the revolving credit facilities were 3.98% on U.S. borrowings and 2.15% on Canadian borrowings.

        Borrowings under the revolving credit facilities are guaranteed by certain of the Company's domestic subsidiaries and Canadian borrowings are guaranteed by foreign subsidiaries. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company's credit rating as determined by third-party credit agencies was lowered in response to additional indebtedness related to the Air Products acquisition. The lower credit rating required the Company to pledge 100% of the stock of its domestic guarantor subsidiaries and 65% of the stock of its foreign guarantor subsidiaries for the benefit of the syndicate of lenders. If the Company's credit rating is further reduced, the Company will be required to grant a security interest in substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of the Company for the benefit of the syndicate of lenders.

Term Loan

        In February 2002, the Company completed the acquisition of the majority of Air Products' U.S. packaged gas business for cash of $241 million. In anticipation of the transaction, the Company

24

amended its revolving credit facilities to permit the acquisition and obtained a $100 million term loan. The term loan is due in quarterly installments beginning June 30, 2002 with a final payment due July 30, 2006. The term loan is unsecured and bears a variable interest rate based on LIBOR plus a spread related to the Company's credit rating. At March 31, 2002, the effective interest rate of the term loan was 4.15%. The additional term loan along with the Company's existing revolving credit facilities enabled the Company to finance the Air Products acquisition entirely with senior bank debt.

Senior Subordinated Notes

        On July 30, 2001, concurrent with the refinancing of the revolving credit facilities, the Company issued $225 million of senior subordinated notes (the "Notes") with a maturity date of October 1, 2011. The Notes bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 9.125%, payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year with the first interest payment due April 1, 2002. The Notes were sold in accordance with the provisions of Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"). In October 2001, the Company exchanged the Notes for substantially similar notes registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with the Securities Act. The notes contain covenants that could restrict the payment of dividends, the issuance of preferred stock, and the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens. The notes are guaranteed on a subordinated basis by each of the domestic guarantors under the revolving credit facilities.

Medium-Term Notes

        The Company had the following medium-term notes outstanding at March 31, 2002: $75 million of unsecured notes due March 2004 bearing interest at a fixed rate of 7.14% and $100 million of unsecured notes due September 2006 bearing interest at a fixed rate of 7.75%. At March 31, 2002, the Company's long-term debt also included acquisition notes and other long-term debt instruments of approximately $33 million with interest rates ranging from 7.00% to 9.00%. In the first quarter of fiscal 2003, the Company refinanced $20 million of the acquisition notes with borrowings under its revolving credit facilities.

Interest Rate Swap Agreements

        The Company manages its exposure to changes in market interest rates. At March 31, 2002, the Company was party to a total of 12 interest rate swap agreements. The swap agreements are with major financial institutions and aggregate $323 million in notional principal amount at March 31, 2002. Seven swap agreements with approximately $168 million in notional principal amount require the Company to make fixed interest payments based on an average effective rate of 6.64% and receive variable interest payments from its counterparties based on three-month LIBOR (average rate of 1.93% at March 31, 2002). The remaining term of these swap agreements range from between three months and three years. Five swap agreements with approximately $155 million in notional principal amount require the Company to make variable interest payments based on six-month LIBOR (average rate of 3.78% at March 31, 2002) and receive fixed interest payments from its counterparties based on an average effective rate of 8.05% at March 31, 2002. The remaining term of these swap agreements range from between one and nine years. The Company monitors its positions and the credit ratings of its counterparties, and does not anticipate non-performance by the counterparties. After considering the effect of interest rate swap agreements, the Company's ratio of fixed to variable interest rates was 48% fixed to 52% variable at March 31, 2002.

        A majority of the Company's variable rate debt is based on a spread over LIBOR. Based on the Company's outstanding variable rate debt and credit rating at March 31, 2002, for every increase in LIBOR of 25 basis points, it is estimated that the Company's annual interest expense would increase approximately $1 million.

25

Trade Receivables Securitization

        The Company participates in a securitization agreement with two commercial banks to sell up to $175 million of qualifying trade receivables. The agreement expires in December 2003, but the initial term is subject to renewal provisions contained in the agreement. During fiscal 2002, the Company sold, net of its retained interest, $1.71 billion of trade receivables and remitted to bank conduits, pursuant to a servicing agreement, $1.58 billion in collections on those receivables. The net proceeds were used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities. The amount of outstanding receivables under the agreement was $134 million at March 31, 2002 and $73 million at March 31, 2001.

        The transaction has been accounted for as a sale under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities. Under the agreement, eligible trade receivables are sold to bank conduits through a bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity, which is consolidated for financial reporting purposes. The difference between the proceeds from the sale and the carrying value of the receivables is recognized as "Discount on securitization of trade receivables" in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings and varies on a monthly basis depending on the amount of receivables sold and market rates. The Company retains a subordinated interest in the receivables sold, which is recorded at the receivables' previous carrying value. In accordance with a servicing agreement, the Company services, administers and collects the trade receivables on behalf of the bank conduits. The servicing fees charged to the bank conduits approximate the costs of collections. The Company also maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts on trade receivables that it retains.

Operating Lease with Trust

        The Company leases real estate and certain equipment from a trust established by a commercial bank. The operating leases are structured as a sale-leaseback transaction in which the trust holds title to the properties and equipment included in the leases. The rental payments are based on LIBOR plus an applicable margin and the cost of the property acquired by the trust. At March 31, 2002, the non-cancelable lease obligation of the real estate and equipment lease totaled approximately $43 million. The leases have a five-year term, which expires in October 2004. The Company has guaranteed a residual value of the real estate and the equipment at the end of the lease term of approximately $30 million. A gain of approximately $12 million on the equipment portion of the transaction has been deferred until the expiration of the Company's guarantee of the residual value.

Employee Benefits Trust

        The Company maintains a grantor trust (the "Trust") to fund certain future obligations of the Company's employee benefit and compensation plans. The Company, pursuant to a Common Stock Purchase Agreement, sold shares of common stock to the Trust. During fiscal 1999 through 2001, the Trust purchased a total of approximately 7 million shares of common stock, previously held as treasury stock, from the Company, for approximately $54 million (based on the average market closing price for the five days preceding each transaction). The Company holds promissory notes from the Trust in the amount of each purchase. Shares held by the Trust serve as collateral for the promissory notes and are available to fund certain employee benefit plan obligations as the promissory notes are repaid. The shares held by the Trust are not considered outstanding for earnings per share purposes until they are released from serving as collateral for the promissory notes. Approximately 1.4 million and 1.2 million shares were issued from the Trust for employee benefit programs during fiscal 2002 and 2001, respectively. As of March 31, 2002, the Trust held approximately 4.3 million shares of Company common stock. An independent third-party financial institution serves as the Trustee. The Trustee votes or tenders shares held by the Trust in accordance with instructions received from the participants in the employee benefit and compensation plans funded by the Trust.

26

Inflation

        While the U.S. inflation rate has been relatively modest for several years, rising costs continue to affect the Company's business. The Company strives to minimize the effects of inflation through cost containment and price increases under highly competitive conditions.

OTHER

Critical Accounting Policies

        The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes. Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements describes the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, determining the net carrying value of trade receivables, inventories, goodwill, other intangible assets and business insurance reserves. Actual results could differ from these estimates. The following critical accounting policies are impacted significantly by judgments, assumptions and estimates used in the preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Trade Receivables

        The Company must make estimates of the collectability of its trade receivables. Management has established an allowance for doubtful accounts to adjust the carrying value of trade receivables to fair value based on an estimate of the amount of trade receivables that are uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined based on historical experience, economic trends, and known bankruptcies and problem accounts. Management believes that the allowances for doubtful accounts as of March 31, 2002 and 2001 are adequate.

Inventories

        The Company's inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. The Company writes down its inventory for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon its physical condition as well as assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual demand or market conditions in the future are less favorable than those estimated, additional inventory write-downs may be required.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

        The Company adopted SFAS 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, as of April 1, 2001. SFAS 142 requires goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives will not be amortized, but instead be tested for impairment at least annually. The Company has elected to perform its annual tests for indications of goodwill impairment as of October 31 of each year. The annual impairment test used by the Company consists of a discounted cash flow analysis. The discounted cash flow analysis requires estimates, assumptions and judgments that could be materially different if different estimates, assumptions and judgments were used.

Business Insurance Reserves

        The Company has insurance programs to cover workers' compensation, business automobile, general and products liability. The insurance programs have self-insured retention of $500 thousand per occurrence and an aggregate limit of $1.5 million of claims in excess of $500 thousand. The Company accrues estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on the Company's historical loss experience. Although management believes that the insurance reserves are adequate, the reserve

27

estimates are based on historical experience, which may not be indicative of current and future losses. In addition, the actuarial calculations used to estimate insurance reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. The Company will adjust its insurance reserves, if necessary, in the event that future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.

New Accounting Pronouncements

        In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations. SFAS 143 requires the recognition of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred. A retirement obligation is defined as one in which a legal obligation exists in the future resulting from existing laws, statutes or contracts. The Company is required to adopt SFAS 143 on April 1, 2003. The Company has evaluated SFAS 143 and does not believe its adoption will have a material impact on its results of operations, financial position or liquidity.

        In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. SFAS 144 addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. This Statement requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. SFAS 144 requires companies to separately report discontinued operations and extends that reporting to a component of an entity that either has been disposed of (by sale, abandonment, or in a distribution to owners) or is classified as held for sale. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. The Company was required to adopt SFAS 144 on April 1, 2002. The adoption of SFAS 144 did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Forward-looking Statements

        This report contains statements that are forward looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the Company's strategy of leveraging its distribution network and focusing on strategic sales initiatives to drive sales growth and market penetration in the industries that it serves; the effect of price increases on sales growth and the ability to offset rising costs; the correlation of hardgoods sales with non-tech industrial production; the timing, scope and success of the Project One initiative designed to improve certain operational and administrative processes; the Company's estimate that for every increase in LIBOR of 25 basis points, interest expense will increase approximately $1 million; the ability of the Company to successfully integrate the business acquired from Air Products; the estimate of a fiscal 2003 first quarter special charge of $2.5 to $3.5 million for costs to exit existing Airgas facilities and sever employees; the estimate of integration costs in fiscal 2003 of $3.5 to $4.5 million related to the business acquired from Air Products; the Company's expectation that the Air Products acquisition will be accretive to fiscal 2003 earnings and return on capital; the Company's strong cash flow characteristics and its ability to reduce debt; the Company's estimate of fiscal 2003 capital spending of $75 to $80 million; the identification of acquisition candidates; the funding of capital expenditures, current debt maturities and future acquisitions through the use of cash flow from operations, revolving credit facilities and other financing alternatives; the ability of the Company to arrange additional sources of financing for unanticipated requirements; the effect on the Company of higher interest rates; and performance of counterparties under interest rate swap agreements. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted in any forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to:

28

adverse customer response to the Company's sales initiatives and resulting inability to drive sales growth and market penetration; underlying market conditions; a lack of or lower correlation of hardgoods sales with non-tech industrial production in future periods; the market acceptance of price increases and the inability of price increases and sales growth to offset any increases in costs; the Company's inability to control operating expenses and the potential impact of higher operating expenses in future periods; adverse changes in customer buying patterns; the impact of higher than anticipated consulting expenses on future results; the inability of the Company's Project One initiatives to improve operational and administrative processes; an economic downturn (including adverse changes in the specific markets for the Company's products); higher than estimated interest expense resulting from increases in LIBOR and changes in the Company's credit rating; a higher than estimated special charge in the first quarter of fiscal 2003; higher than estimated costs to integrate the business acquired from Air Products; potential disruption to the Company's business from integration problems associated with the business acquired from Air Products; higher or lower capital spending in fiscal 2003 than that estimated by the Company; inability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or other sources to fund future acquisitions, capital expenditures, current debt maturities and to reduce debt; the inability to identify and successfully integrate acquisition candidates; changes in the Company's debt levels and/or credit rating which prevent the Company from arranging additional financing; the inability to manage interest rate exposure; the effects of competition from independent distributors and vertically integrated gas producers on products, pricing and sales growth; changes in product prices from gas producers and name-brand manufacturers and suppliers of hardgoods; uncertainties regarding accidents or litigation which may arise in the ordinary course of business; and the effects of, and changes in, the economy, monetary and fiscal policies, laws and regulations, inflation and monetary fluctuations and fluctuations in interest rates, both on a national and international basis. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement made herein or that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company.

29

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Interest Rate Risk

        The Company manages its exposure to changes in market interest rates. The interest rate exposure arises primarily from the interest payment terms of the Company's borrowing agreements. Interest rate swap agreements are used to adjust the interest rate risk exposures that are inherent in its portfolio of funding sources. The Company has not, and will not establish any interest risk positions for purposes other than managing the risk associated with its portfolio of funding sources. The Company maintains the ratio of fixed to variable rate debt within parameters established by management under policies approved by the Board of Directors. After the effect of interest rate swap agreements, the ratio of fixed to variable rate debt was 48% to 52% at March 31, 2002. Counterparties to interest rate swap agreements are major financial institutions. The Company has established counterparty credit guidelines and only enters into transactions with financial institutions with long-term credit ratings of 'A' or better. In addition, the Company monitors its position and the credit ratings of its counterparties, thereby minimizing the risk of non-performance by the counterparties.

        The table below summarizes the Company's market risks associated with long-term debt obligations, interest rate swaps and LIBOR-based agreements as of March 31, 2002. For long-term debt obligations, the table presents cash flows related to payments of principal and interest by fiscal year of maturity. For interest rate swaps and LIBOR-based agreements, the table presents the notional amounts underlying the agreements by year of maturity. The notional amounts are used to calculate contractual payments to be exchanged and are not actually paid or received. Fair values were computed using market quotes, if available, or based on discounted cash flows using market interest rates as of the end of the period.

30

		Fiscal Year of Maturity
		2003			2004			2005			2006			2007			Thereafter			Total			Fair Value
(In millions)
Fixed Rate Debt:
Medium-term notes		$	—		$	75		$	—		$	—		$	100		$	—		$	175		$	175
	Interest expense	$	13		$	13		$	8		$	8		$	4		$	—		$	46
	Average interest rate		7.49	%		7.49	%		7.75	%		7.75	%		7.75	%
Acquisition and other notes		$	3		$	2		$	1		$	6		$	21		$	—		$	33		$	33
	Interest expense	$	2		$	1		$	1		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	4
	Average interest rate		7.55	%		7.58	%		7.75	%		7.96	%		8.50	%
Senior subordinated notes		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	225		$	225		$	234
	Interest expense	$	21		$	21		$	21		$	21		$	21		$	92		$	197
	Interest rate		9.125	%		9.125	%		9.125	%		9.125	%		9.125	%		9.125	%
Variable Rate Debt:
Revolving credit facilities		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	229		$	—		$	229		$	229
	Interest expense	$	9		$	9		$	9		$	9		$	4		$	—		$	40
	Interest rate(a)		3.72	%		3.72	%		3.72	%		3.72	%		3.72	%
Term Loan		$	—		$	18		$	22		$	30		$	30		$	—		$	100		$	100
	Interest expense	$	4		$	3		$	3		$	2		$	—		$	—		$	12
	Interest rate(a)		4.15	%		4.15	%		4.15	%		4.15	%		4.15	%
Interest Rate Swaps:
US $ denominated Swaps:
7 Swaps Receive Variable/Pay Fixed
	Notional amounts	$	128		$	—		$	40		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	168		$	5
	Swap payments/(receipts)	$	4		$	2		$	1		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	7
	Variable Receive rate = 1.93% (3 month LIBOR)
	Weighted average pay rate = 6.64%
5 Swaps Receive Fixed/Pay Variable
	Notional amounts	$	—		$	30		$	—		$	—		$	50		$	75		$	155		$	(4	)
	Swap payments/(receipts)	$	(7	)	$	(7	)	$	(5	)	$	(5	)	$	(4	)	$	(13	)	$	(41	)
	Weighted average receive rate = 8.05%
	Variable pay rate = 3.78% (6 month LIBOR)
Other Off-Balance Sheet LIBOR-based agreements:
Operating leases with trust(b)		$	1		$	1		$	41		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	43		$	43
	Lease expense	$	2		$	2		$	2		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	6
Trade receivable securitization(c)		$	—		$	134		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	134		$	134
	Discount on securitization	$	3		$	2		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	5

(a)

The variable rate of U.S. revolving credit facilities and term loan is based on LIBOR as of March 31, 2002. The variable rate of the Canadian dollar portion of the revolving credit facilities is the rate on Canadian Bankers' acceptances as of March 31, 2002.

(b)

The operating lease terminates October 8, 2004, but may be renewed subject to provisions of the lease agreement.

(c)

The three-year agreement expires on December 19, 2003, but the initial term is subject to renewal provisions of the trade receivables securitization agreement.

31

Limitations of the tabular presentation

        As the table incorporates only those interest rate risk exposures that exist as of March 31, 2002, it does not consider those exposures or positions that could arise after that date. In addition, actual cash flows of financial instruments in future periods may differ materially from prospective cash flows presented in the table due to future fluctuations in variable interest rates, debt levels and the Company's credit rating.

Foreign Currency Rate Risk

        Canadian subsidiaries of the Company are funded in part with local currency debt. The Company does not otherwise hedge its exposure to translation gains and losses relating to foreign currency net asset exposures. The Company considers its exposure to foreign currency exchange fluctuations to be immaterial to its consolidated financial position and results of operations.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

        The consolidated financial statements, supplementary information and financial statement schedule of the Company are set forth at pages F-1 to F-47 of the report.

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

        None.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY.

        The biographical information of the Company's directors appearing in the Proxy Statement relating to the Company's 2002 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference. Biographical information relating to the Company's executive officers set forth in Item 1 of Part I of this Form 10-K Report is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

        The information under "Board of Directors and Committees," "Executive Compensation" and "Certain Transactions" appearing in the Proxy Statement relating to the Company's 2002 Annual Meeting of Stockholders is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.

        The information required by this Item is set forth in the sections headed "Security Ownership" and "Equity Compensation Plan Information" under "Executive Compensation" appearing in the Company's Proxy Statement relating to the Company's 2002 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and such information is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.

        None.

32

PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

(a)(1) and (2):

        The response to this portion of Item 14 is submitted as a separate section of this report beginning on page F-1. All other schedules have been omitted as inapplicable, or not required, or because the required information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements or notes thereto.

(a)(3) Exhibits.

        The exhibits required to be filed as part of this annual report on Form 10-K are listed in the attached Index to Exhibits.

(b)

Reports on Form 8-K.

        On January 7, 2002, the Company filed a current report on Form 8-K pursuant to Item 5, announcing an agreement to purchase the majority of the U.S. packaged gas business of Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. ("Air Products").

        On January 25, 2002, the Company filed a current report on Form 8-K pursuant to Item 5, reporting its earnings for the third quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2001.

        On March 15, 2002, the Company filed a current report on Form 8-K pursuant to Items 2 and 7, announcing the completion of its acquisition of the majority of the U.S. packaged gas business of Air Products. The acquisition was financed through borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities and a $100 million term loan with a maturity date of July 30, 2006. The Company also disclosed an agreement to purchase at least 35% of its entire liquid bulk gas requirements from Air Products for the 15-year period ended September 1, 2017.

(c)

Index to Exhibits and Exhibits filed as a part of this report.

Exhibit No.	Description
3.1	Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Airgas, Inc. dated as of August 7, 1995. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's September 30, 1995 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
3.2	Airgas, Inc. By-Laws Amended and Restated through August 2, 1999. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3 to the Company's September 30, 1999 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
4.1	Tenth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of July 30, 2001 among Airgas, Inc., Airgas Canada, Inc., Red-D-Arc Limited, Bank of America, N.A. as U.S. Agent and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce as Canadian Agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's June 30, 2001 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
4.2	First Amendment, dated December 31, 2001, to the Tenth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of July 30, 2001 among Airgas, Inc., Airgas Canada, Inc., Red-D-Arc Limited, Bank of America, N.A. as U.S. Agent and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce as Canadian Agent. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's December 31, 2001 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
4.3	Indenture dated as of August 1, 1996 of Airgas, Inc. to Bank of New York, Trustee. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-23651 dated March 20, 1997).

33

4.4	Form of Airgas, Inc. Medium-Term Note (Fixed Rate). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-23651 dated March 20, 1997).
4.5	Form of Airgas, Inc. Medium-Term Note (Floating Rate). (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-23651 dated March 20, 1997).
4.6	Senior Subordinated Notes. (Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 No. 333-68722 dated September 14, 2001).
	There are no other instruments with respect to long-term debt of the Company that involve indebtedness or securities authorized thereunder exceeding 10 percent of the total assets of the Company and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. The Company agrees to file a copy of any instrument or agreement defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the Company upon request of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
4.7	Rights Agreement, dated as of April 1, 1997, between Airgas, Inc. and The Bank of New York, N.A., as Rights Agent, which includes as Exhibit B thereto the Form of Right Certificate. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1 to the Company's Form 8-A filed on April 28, 1997).
4.8	First Amendment, dated November 12, 1998, to the Rights Agreement dated as of April 1, 1997, between Airgas, Inc. and The Bank of New York. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company's December 31, 1998 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
*10.1	Amended and Restated 1984 Stock Option Plan, as amended effective May 22, 1995. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's September 30, 1995 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
*10.2	1989 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan for Directors (Non-Employees), as amended. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's March 31, 1992 report on Form 10-K).
*10.3	Amendment to the 1989 Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan for Directors (Non-Employees) as amended through August 7, 1995 (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's September 30, 1995 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
*10.4	2001 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 No. 333-69214 dated September 10, 2001).
*10.5	Joint Venture Agreement dated June 28, 1996 between Airgas, Inc. and National Welders Supply Company, Inc. and J.A. Turner, III, and Linerieux B. Turner and Molo Limited Partnership, Turner (1996) Limited partnership, Charitable Remainder Unitrust for James A. Turner, Jr. and Foundation for the Carolinas (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the Company's June 28, 1996 Report on Form 8-K).
*10.6	Letter dated July 24, 1992 between Airgas, Inc. (on behalf of the Nominating and Compensation Committee) and Peter McCausland regarding the severance agreement between the Company and Peter McCausland (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's March 31, 1997 Report on Form 10-K).
*10.7	1997 Stock Option Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's September 30, 1997 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).

34

*10.8	1997 Directors' Stock Option Plan (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's September 30, 1997 Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q).
*10.9	Employee Benefits Trust Agreement, dated March 30, 1999, between Airgas, Inc. and First Union National Bank, as Trustee, which includes as Exhibit 1 thereto the Common Stock Purchase Agreement, dated March 30, 1999, between Airgas,  Inc. and First Union National Bank, as Trustee, and Exhibit 2 thereto the Promissory Note, dated March 31, 1999, between Airgas, Inc. and First Union National Bank, as Trustee. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Company's March 31, 1999 Report on Form 10-K).
*10.10	Employee Benefits Trust Amendment Letter, dated March 7, 2000, between Airgas, Inc. and First Union National Bank, as Trustee (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the Company's March 31, 2000 Report on Form 10-K).
*10.11	Airgas, Inc. Fiscal Year 2002 Executive Bonus Plan dated April 1, 2001. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Company's March 31, 2002 Report on Form 10-K).
*10.12	Airgas, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan dated December 17, 2001. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 No. 333-75258 dated December 17, 2001).
10.13	Asset Purchase Agreement dated January 3, 2002, by and among Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Airgas, Inc. and National Welders Supply Company, Inc. A Liquid Bulk Product Supply Agreement is included as Exhibit E-1 to the Asset Purchase Agreement. (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to Form 8-K dated February 28, 2002).
*10.14	Airgas, Inc. Fiscal Year 2003 Executive Bonus Plan dated April 1, 2002.
*10.15	Change of Control Agreement between Airgas, Inc. and Glenn Fischer dated October 10, 2000. Eleven other Executive Officers, including Peter McCausland, are parties to substantially identical agreements.
11	Statement re: computation of earnings per share.
21	Subsidiaries of the Company.
23	Consent of KPMG LLP.

*

A management contract or compensatory plan required to be filed by Item 14(c) of this Report.

35

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  PETER MCCAUSLAND Peter McCausland Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  PETER MCCAUSLAND (Peter McCausland)	Director, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROGER F. MILLAY (Roger F. Millay)	Senior Vice President—Finance and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  W. THACHER BROWN (W. Thacher Brown)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  FRANK B. FOSTER, III (Frank B. Foster, III)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  JAMES W. HOVEY (James W. Hovey)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  JOHN A.H. SHOBER (John A.H. Shober)	Director	June 21, 2002

36

/s/  PAULA A. SNEED (Paula A. Sneed)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  DAVID M. STOUT (David M. Stout)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  LEE M. THOMAS (Lee M. Thomas)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT L. YOHE (Robert L. Yohe)	Director	June 21, 2002

37

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS EAST, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  JAMES A. MULLER (James A. Muller)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  JOSEPH MICALI (Joseph Micali)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

38

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS GREAT LAKES, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  JOHN MUSSELMAN (John Musselman)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  JIM JOHNSTON (Jim Johnston)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

39

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS MID AMERICA, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  ROBERT HILLIARD (Robert Hilliard)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  LEE CHERRY (Lee Cherry)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

40

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS NORTH CENTRAL, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  JOHN MCDEVITT (John McDevitt)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 7, 2002
/s/  MICHAEL ALLISON (Michael Allison)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 12, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

41

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS SOUTH, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  MICHAEL ROHDE (Michael Rohde)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  JAY SULLIVAN (Jay Sullivan)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

42

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS GULF STATES, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  HENRY B. COKER, III (Henry B. Coker, III)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  RONALD A. ZIENTEK (Ronald A. Zientek)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  B. SHAUN POWERS (B. Shaun Powers)	Director	June 21, 2002

43

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS MID SOUTH, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  MICHAEL DUVALL (Michael Duvall)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  TERRY LODGE (Terry Lodge)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

44

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS INTERMOUNTAIN, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  DANIEL L. TATRO (Daniel L. Tatro)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  TERESA MILLER (Teresa Miller)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 11, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

45

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS NOR PAC, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  MARK CLEMENS (Mark Clemens)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  CURTIS FLAMM (Curtis Flamm)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

46

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS NORTHERN CALIFORNIA & NEVADA, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  JAMES D. MCCARTHY (James D. McCarthy)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  LYNN OATES (Lynn Oates)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

47

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS SOUTHWEST, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  BRENT SPARKS (Brent Sparks)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 7, 2002
/s/  JAY WORLEY (Jay Worley)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 7, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

48

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS WEST, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  MAX D. HOOPER (Max D. Hooper)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  DONALD JENSEN (Donald Jensen)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ALFRED B. CRICHTON (Alfred B. Crichton)	Director	June 21, 2002

49

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS SAFETY, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  DAVID LEVIN (David Levin)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  DONALD CARLINO (Donald Carlino)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

50

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

RUTLAND TOOL & SUPPLY CO., INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  DAVID LEVIN (David Levin)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Financial Officer/ Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

51

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS CARBONIC, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  PHILIP J. FILER (Philip J. Filer)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  CHARLES TOOMEY (Charles Toomey)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

52

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS SPECIALTY GASES, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  WILLIAM RUSSO (William Russo)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 7, 2002
/s/  TODD CURRY (Todd Curry)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

53

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

NITROUS OXIDE CORP. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  RONALD SCOTT (Ronald Scott)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  CHARLES TOOMEY (Charles Toomey)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

54

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

PURITAN MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  TED R. SCHULTE (Ted R. Schulte)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  TODD CURRY (Todd Curry)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

55

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

RED-D-ARC INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  MITCH M. IMIELINSKI (Mitch M. Imielinski)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  STEVEN DARROCH (Steven Darroch)	Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

56

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS REALTY, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President and Director

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  GLENN M. FISCHER (Glenn M. Fischer)	President and Director (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President and Director (Principal Financial Officer/ Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

57

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

ATNL, INC. (Registrant)
By:	/s/  CONNIE S. LINHART Connie S. Linhart President

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  CONNIE S. LINHART (Connie S. Linhart)	President and Treasurer (Principal Executive Officer/Principal Financial Officer/Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  JOSEPH C. SULLIVAN (Joseph C. Sullivan)	Director	June 21, 2002
/s/  PETER CAMPBELL (Peter Campbell)	Director	June 21, 2002

58

SIGNATURES

        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.

Dated: June 21, 2002

AIRGAS DATA, LLC (Registrant)
By:	/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN Robert M. McLaughlin Vice President

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/  CAREY M. VERGER (Carey M. Verger)	President and Member (Principal Executive Officer)	June 21, 2002
/s/  ROBERT M. MCLAUGHLIN (Robert M. McLaughlin)	Vice President (Principal Financial Officer/Principal Accounting Officer)	June 21, 2002

59

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

	Page Reference In Report On Form 10-K
Financial Statements:
Independent Auditors' Report	F-2
Statement of Management's Financial Responsibility	F-3
Consolidated Statements of Earnings for the Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000	F-4
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2002 and 2001	F-5
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000	F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000	F-7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	F-8
Financial Statement Schedule:
Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	F-47

        All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and therefore have been omitted.

F-1

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

The Board of Directors
Airgas, Inc.:

        We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Airgas, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) listed in the accompanying index. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. 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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Airgas, Inc. and subsidiaries as of March 31, 2002 and 2001, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2002, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

        As discussed in note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets and derivative instruments and hedging activities for the year ended March 31, 2002.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
May 6, 2002

F-2

STATEMENT OF MANAGEMENT'S FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

        Management has prepared and is responsible for the integrity and objectivity of the consolidated financial statements and related financial information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The financial statements reflect management's informed judgment and estimation as to the effect of events and transactions that are accounted for or disclosed.

        Management maintains a system of internal control at each business unit. This system is designed to provide reasonable assurance that assets are safeguarded and records properly reflect transactions executed in accordance with management's authorization. The Company also maintains a staff of internal auditors who review and evaluate the system of internal control on a continual basis. In determining the extent of the system of internal control, management recognizes that the cost should not exceed the benefits derived. The evaluation of these factors requires estimates and judgment by management.

        The Company's financial statements have been audited by KPMG LLP, independent auditors. Their Independent Auditors' Report, which is based on an audit made in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, is presented on the previous page. In performing their audit, KPMG LLP considers the Company's internal control structure to the extent they deem necessary in order to plan their audit, determine the nature, timing and extent of tests to be performed and issue their report on the consolidated financial statements.

        The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, consisting solely of non-employee Directors, meets regularly (jointly and separately) with the independent auditors, the internal auditors and management to satisfy itself that they are properly discharging their responsibilities. The auditors have direct access to the Audit Committee.

Airgas, Inc.
/s/  ROGER F. MILLAY Roger F. Millay Senior Vice President—Finance and Chief Financial Officer	/s/  PETER MCCAUSLAND Peter McCausland Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
May 6, 2002

F-3

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

			Years Ended March 31,
			2002			2001			2000
			(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net Sales
Distribution			$	1,494,267		$	1,487,422		$	1,409,949
Gas Operations				141,780			141,479			132,385
		Total net sales		1,636,047			1,628,901			1,542,334
Costs and Expenses
Cost of products sold (excluding depreciation expense)
	Distribution			770,094			797,423			760,122
	Gas Operations			48,659			49,777			56,475
Selling, distribution and administrative expenses				619,316			583,355			532,527
Depreciation				64,785			62,938			63,635
Amortization (Note 7)				8,160			23,816			25,673
Special charges (recoveries), net (Note 3)				—			3,643			(2,829	)
		Total costs and expenses		1,511,014			1,520,952			1,435,603
Operating Income
Distribution				103,430			92,186			94,671
Gas Operations				21,603			19,406			9,231
Special (charges) recoveries, net				—			(3,643	)		2,829
		Total operating income		125,033			107,949			106,731
Interest expense, net (Note 16)				(47,013	)		(60,207	)		(57,560	)
Discount on securitization of trade receivables (Note 12)				(4,846	)		(1,303	)		—
Other income, net (Note 2)				1,382			242			17,862
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates (Note 15)				3,835			2,260			3,391
	Earnings before income taxes and the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			78,391			48,941			70,424
Income taxes (Note 17)				29,806			20,718			31,551
	Earnings before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			48,585			28,223			38,873
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle (Note 1)				(59,000	)		—			(590	)
Net Earnings (Loss)			$	(10,415	)	$	28,223		$	38,283
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Earnings per share before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		$	.71		$	.43		$	.56
	Cumulative effect per share of a change in accounting principle			(.86	)		—			(.01	)
	Net earnings (loss) per share		$	(.15	)	$	.43		$	.55
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Earnings per share before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		$	.69		$	.42		$	.55
	Cumulative effect per share of a change in accounting principle			(.84	)		—			(.01	)
	Net earnings (loss) per share		$	(.15	)	$	.42		$	.54
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic (Note 4)				68,100			66,000			69,200
Diluted (Note 4)				69,900			67,200			70,600
Comprehensive income (loss)			$	(13,663	)	$	27,666		$	38,597

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements, including Note 7 containing
pro forma amounts assuming the retroactive application of SFAS 142.

F-4

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

			March 31,
			2002			2001
			(In thousands, except per share amounts)
ASSETS
Current Assets
Trade receivables, less allowances for doubtful accounts of $8,176 in 2002 and $7,402 in 2001 (Note 12)			$	88,634		$	143,129
Inventories, net (Note 5)				154,045			155,024
Deferred income tax asset, net (Note 17)				13,210			10,143
Prepaid expenses and other current assets				47,654			25,549
		Total current assets		303,543			333,845
Plant and equipment, at cost (Note 6)				1,309,001			1,073,252
Less accumulated depreciation				(415,986	)		(368,606	)
	Plant and equipment, net			893,015			704,646
Goodwill (Note 7)				406,548			440,057
Other intangible assets, net (Note 7)				25,718			29,668
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates (Note 15)				64,626			63,262
Other non-current assets				23,607			9,812
		Total assets	$	1,717,057		$	1,581,290
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities
Accounts payable, trade			$	82,485		$	76,337
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (Note 8)				136,390			130,873
Current portion of long-term debt (Note 9)				2,456			72,945
		Total current liabilities		221,331			280,155
Long-term debt, excluding current portion (Note 9)				764,124			620,664
Deferred income tax liability, net (Note 17)				198,173			161,176
Other non-current liabilities				30,343			22,446
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 20 and 21)				—			—
Stockholders' Equity (Note 13)
Preferred stock, no par value, 20,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding in 2002 and 2001				—			—
Common stock, par value $.01 per share, 200,000 shares authorized, 75,193 and 74,361 shares issued in 2002 and 2001, respectively				752			744
Capital in excess of par value				198,500			188,629
Retained earnings				345,181			355,596
Accumulated other comprehensive loss				(4,401	)		(1,153	)
Treasury stock, 547 and 516 common shares at cost in 2002 and 2001, respectively				(4,289	)		(3,982	)
Employee benefits trust, 4,331 and 5,701 common shares at cost in 2002 and 2001, respectively				(32,657	)		(42,985	)
		Total stockholders' equity		503,086			496,849
		Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	1,717,057		$	1,581,290

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

	Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000
	Shares of Common Stock $.01 Par Value	Common Stock		Capital in Excess of Par Value			Retained Earnings			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Treasury Stock			Employee Benefits Trust
	(In thousands)
Balance—March 31, 1999	72,023.7	$	720	$	190,175		$	289,090		$	(910	)	$	(1,129	)	$	(7,001	)
Net earnings								38,283
Foreign currency translation adjustment											314
Purchase of treasury stock (Note 13)														(45,996	)
Reissuance of treasury stock for stock options exercised (Note 13)					(247	)								424
Shares issued in connection with stock options exercised (Note 14)	544.4		5		1,429
Tax benefit associated with exercise of stock options (Note 17)					1,638
Shares issued in connection with Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Note 14)	575.7		6		4,080
Shares issued from Employee Benefits Trust for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Note 13)					(348	)											1,976
Shares of treasury stock sold to Employee Benefits Trust (Note 13)					(2,834	)								38,266			(35,434	)
Balance—March 31, 2000	73,143.8	$	731	$	193,893		$	327,373		$	(596	)	$	(8,435	)	$	(40,459	)
Net earnings								28,223
Foreign currency translation adjustment											(557	)
Purchase of treasury stock (Note 13)														(11,214	)
Shares issued in connection with a prior year acquisition agreement	787.6		8		(8	)
Shares issued in connection with stock options exercised (Note 14)	429.5		5		1,455
Tax benefit associated with exercise of stock options (Note 17)					800
Shares issued from Employee Benefits Trust for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Note 13)					(3,107	)											8,737
Shares of treasury stock sold to Employee Benefits Trust (Note 13)					(4,404	)								15,667			(11,263	)
Balance—March 31, 2001	74,360.9	$	744	$	188,629		$	355,596		$	(1,153	)	$	(3,982	)	$	(42,985	)
Net loss								(10,415	)
Foreign currency translation adjustment											(1	)
Purchase of treasury stock (Note 13)														(307	)
Shares issued in connection with stock options exercised (Note 14)	832.0		8		5,547												1,885
Tax benefit associated with exercise of stock options (Note 17)					4,330
Shares issued from Employee Benefits Trust for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Note 13)					(1,074	)											8,443
Issuance of warrants (Note 13)					1,068
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting Principle (Note 1)											(6,664	)
Net change in fair value of interest rate swap Agreements (Note 11)											1,740
Net tax benefit of comprehensive income items											1,677
Balance—March 31, 2002	75,192.9	$	752	$	198,500		$	345,181		$	(4,401	)	$	(4,289	)	$	(32,657	)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-6

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002			2001			2000
		(In thousands)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net earnings (loss)		$	(10,415	)	$	28,223		$	38,283
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
	Depreciation and amortization		72,945			86,754			89,308
	Deferred income taxes		34,578			5,152			13,123
	Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates		(3,835	)		(2,260	)		(3,391	)
	Gains on divestitures		(1,916	)		(1,173	)		(17,712	)
	(Gain)/loss on sale of plant and equipment		405			502			(915	)
	Stock issued for employee stock purchase plan		7,369			5,630			5,715
	Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		59,000			—			590
	Other non-cash charges		1,068			2,281			458
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding effects of business acquisitions and divestitures:
	Securitization of trade receivables		60,800			73,200			—
	Trade receivables, net		9,111			(4,122	)		(14,480	)
	Inventories, net		12,614			4,531			1,392
	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		(24,743	)		(1,757	)		(5,954	)
	Accounts payable, trade		6,148			(2,005	)		(7,966	)
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		18,300			10,337			9,434
	Other assets and liabilities, net		7,952			(6,288	)		(7,793	)
	Net cash provided by operating activities		249,381			199,005			100,092
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures			(58,297	)		(65,910	)		(65,211	)
Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment			3,216			2,854			37,454
Proceeds from divestitures			10,200			49,629			55,596
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired			(252,538	)		(1,006	)		(99,204	)
Business acquisitions, holdback and other settlements			(5,018	)		(4,752	)		(2,289	)
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates			—			—			(30	)
Dividends and fees from unconsolidated affiliates			2,583			3,668			3,973
Other, net			5,153			4,665			4,250
	Net cash used in investing activities		(294,701	)		(10,852	)		(65,461	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from borrowings			680,144			157,238			168,569
Repayment of debt			(612,779	)		(341,122	)		(159,638	)
Financing costs			(12,461	)		—			—
Purchase of treasury stock			—			(11,214	)		(47,125	)
Exercise of stock options			7,442			1,460			1,562
Cash overdraft			(17,026	)		5,485			2,001
	Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		45,320			(188,153	)		(34,631	)
CHANGE IN CASH		$	—		$	—		$	—
Cash—Beginning of year			—			—			—
Cash—End of year		$	—		$	—		$	—

For supplemental cash flow disclosures see Note 22.
   
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-7

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
  
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(1)  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

(a) Description of the Business

        Airgas, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") is the largest U.S. distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases (delivered in "packaged" or cylinder form), and welding, safety and related products. The Company also produces dry ice, liquid carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and specialty gases for distribution throughout the United States. The Company was founded in 1982 and became publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange in 1986.

(b) Basis of Presentation

        The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Airgas, Inc. and subsidiaries. Unconsolidated affiliates are accounted for on the equity method and generally consist of 20-50% owned operations where control does not exist or is considered temporary. Intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

        The Company has made estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Estimates are used for, but not limited to, determining the net carrying value of trade receivables, inventories, plant and equipment, goodwill, other intangible assets and loss contingencies. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

(c) Inventories

        Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for approximately 91% and 88% of the inventories at March 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Cost for the remainder of inventories is determined using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method.

(d) Plant and Equipment

        Plant and equipment are initially stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the related assets. The carrying values of long-lived assets, including plant and equipment, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the recorded value cannot be recovered from undiscounted future cash flows. When the book value of an asset exceeds associated expected future cash flows, it is considered to be impaired and is written down to fair value, which is determined based on either future cash flows or appraised values.

(e) Other Intangible Assets and Deferred Financing Costs

        Costs and payments pursuant to non-competition arrangements entered into in connection with business acquisitions are amortized over the terms of the arrangements, which are principally over five years. The Company assesses the recoverability of non-competition arrangements by determining whether the amortization of the asset balance can be recovered through projected undiscounted future cash flows of the related business over its remaining life.

        Costs related to the issuance of long-term debt are deferred and amortized over the term of the related debt.

F-8

(f) Commitments and Contingencies

        The Company's policy is to accrue future legal fees associated with outstanding litigation. Liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation and other sources are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the claim, assessment or damages can be reasonably estimated.

        The Company maintains business insurance programs with significant self-insured retention, which covers workers' compensation, business automobile and general products liability claims. The Company accrues estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience. The actuarial calculations used to estimate business insurance reserves are based on numerous assumptions, some of which are subjective. The Company will adjust its business insurance reserves, if necessary, in the event future loss experience differs from historical loss patterns.

(g) Income Taxes

        Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

(h) Foreign Currency Translation

        The functional currency of the Company's foreign operations is the applicable local currency. The translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using average exchange rates during each reporting period. The gains or losses, net of applicable deferred income taxes, resulting from such translations are included in stockholders' equity as a component of "Accumulated other comprehensive loss." Gains and losses arising from foreign currency transactions are reflected in the consolidated statements of earnings as incurred.

(i) Concentrations of Credit Risk

        Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of trade receivables. Concentrations of credit risk are limited due to the Company's large number of customers and their dispersion across many industries throughout North America. Credit terms granted to customers are generally net 30 days.

(j) Financial Instruments

        In managing interest rate risk exposure, the Company enters into interest rate swap agreements. An interest rate swap is a contractual exchange of interest payments between two parties. A standard interest rate swap involves the payment of a fixed rate times a notional amount by one party in exchange for a floating rate times the same notional amount from another party. As interest rates change, the difference to be paid or received is accrued and recognized as interest expense over the life of the agreement. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes and the Company has the ability and intent to hold these instruments to maturity. Counterparties to the Company's interest rate swap agreements are major financial institutions. With the adoption of the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 133, Accounting

F-9

for Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities, as amended by SFAS No. 137 and 138,in fiscal 2002 (see Note (1) (n)), the Company recognizes interest rate swap agreements on the balance sheet at fair value. The interest rate swap agreements are marked to market with changes in fair value recognized in either other comprehensive income (loss) or in the carrying value of the hedged portions of the medium-term and senior subordinated debt notes.

        The carrying amounts for trade receivables and accounts payable approximate fair value based on the short-term maturity of these financial instruments.

(k) Employee Benefits Trust

        The Company established a grantor trust (the "Trust") to fund future obligations of the Company's employee benefit and compensation plans. Shares are purchased by the Trust from the Company at fair market value and are reflected as a reduction of stockholders' equity in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets under the caption "Employee benefits trust." Shares are transferred from the Trust to fund compensation and employee benefit obligations based on the original cost of the shares to the Trust. The satisfaction of compensation and employee benefit plan obligations is based on the fair value of shares transferred. Differences between the original cost of the shares to the Trust and the fair market value of shares transferred is charged or credited to capital in excess of par value.

(l) Revenue Recognition

        Revenue from sales of gas and hardgoods products is recognized when products are delivered to customers. Rental fees on cylinders, bulk gas storage tanks and other equipment are recognized when earned. Under long-term lease agreements in which rental fees are collected in advance, revenues are deferred and recognized over the terms of the lease agreements.

(m) Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs

        The Company recognizes delivery and freight charges to customers as elements of net sales. Costs of third-party freight are recognized as cost of sales while costs of deliveries by company vehicles and personnel are recognized as elements of selling, distribution and administrative expenses and depreciation expense.

(n) Accounting and Disclosure Changes

SFAS 133

        On April 1, 2001, the Company adopted SFAS No. 133, which requires all derivatives to be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. In accordance with the transition provisions of SFAS 133, on April 1, 2001, the Company recorded the cumulative effect of this accounting change as a liability and a deferred loss of $6.7 million in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of stockholders' equity to recognize, at fair value, interest rate swap agreements that are designated as cash flow hedging instruments. Additionally, the Company recorded an asset and adjusted the carrying value of the hedged portion of its fixed rate debt by $6 million to recognize, at fair value, interest rate swap agreements that are designated as fair value hedging instruments.

SFAS 141

        Effective July 1, 2001, the Company adopted SFAS No. 141, Business Combinations. SFAS 141 requires that the purchase method of accounting be used for all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. The adoption of SFAS 141 did not have an impact on the historical results of operations, financial position or liquidity of the Company.

F-10

SFAS 142

        In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. As allowed under the Standard, the Company adopted SFAS 142 retroactively to April 1, 2001. SFAS 142 requires goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives to no longer be amortized, but instead be tested for impairment at least annually.

        With the adoption of SFAS 142, the Company reassessed the useful lives and residual values of all acquired intangible assets to make any necessary amortization period adjustments. Based on that assessment, no adjustments were made to the amortization period or residual values of other intangible assets. Additionally, certain reclassifications were made to previously issued financial statements to conform to the presentation required by SFAS 142 (see Note 7).

        SFAS 142 provides a six-month transitional period from the effective date of adoption for the Company to perform an assessment of whether there is an indication that goodwill is impaired. To the extent that an indication of impairment exists, the Company must perform a second test to measure the amount of the impairment. The Company determined the implied fair value of each of its reporting units using a discounted cash flow analysis and compared such values to the respective reporting units' carrying amounts. This evaluation indicated that goodwill recorded in the Distribution segment associated with its industrial tool reporting unit was impaired as of April 1, 2001. Conditions that contributed to the goodwill impairment included the deterioration of the industrial and machine tool markets since the acquisition of the businesses in this reporting unit and difficulty in achieving expected cross-selling synergies. The resulting business performance made it difficult to justify further investment to achieve the growth originally forecast for the business. Accordingly, the Company recognized a $59 million non-cash charge, recorded as of April 1, 2001, as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the write-down of goodwill to its fair value. The impaired goodwill was not deductible for taxes, and as a result, no tax benefit was recorded in relation to the charge.

        SFAS 142 also requires goodwill to be tested annually and between annual tests if events occur or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. The Company has elected to perform its annual tests for indications of goodwill impairment as of October 31 of each year. As of October 31, 2001, the Company's annual assessment of each of its reporting units indicated that goodwill was not impaired.

Statement of Position 98-5

        The Company adopted Statement of Position 98-5, Reporting on the Costs of Start-up Activities, as required, in fiscal 2000 resulting in a charge to net earnings of $590 thousand as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle. The charge primarily resulted from the write-off of start-up costs capitalized in connection with the Company's two air separation units.

(o) Reclassifications

        Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period financial statements to conform to the current presentation.

(2)  ACQUISITIONS & DIVESTITURES

(a) Acquisitions

        Acquisitions have been recorded using the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly, results of their operations have been included in the Company's consolidated financial statements since the effective dates of the respective acquisitions.

F-11

Fiscal 2002

        On February 28, 2002, the Company purchased the majority of Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.'s ("Air Products") U.S. packaged gas business, excluding its electronic gases and magnetic resonance imaging-related helium operations, for cash of approximately $241 million, including transaction costs paid through March 31, 2002. The transaction was financed entirely with senior bank debt. The acquisition included 88 facilities in 30 states associated with the filling and distribution of cylinders, liquid dewars, tube trailers, and other containers of industrial gases and non-electronic specialty gases, and the selling of welding hardgoods, including customer service centers, warehouses, and other related assets. Airgas expects that the transaction will be a strategic fit with the Company's core business and that the acquisition will strengthen its national network by giving it a presence in important geographies. Additionally, the Company expects the acquisition of Air Products' non-electronic specialty gas operations will strengthen the core competencies of Airgas' Specialty Gas Operations, enabling it to enhance its competitiveness. Separately, Air Products sold its packaged gas operations in the Carolinas and southern Virginia to National Welders Supply Company, Inc. ("National Welders"), with which the Company has a joint venture. The operations acquired by National Welders generated approximately $17 million in revenue and employ about 100 people.

        The estimates of fair values of net assets acquired, identified intangibles and goodwill related to the transaction with Air Products are based on a preliminary estimate. The Company has not yet finalized the determination of the specific fair values of the assets acquired. Additional work related to the performance of asset appraisals needs to be completed to finalize the allocation of the purchase price to net assets, identified intangibles and goodwill acquired. The entire purchase price ultimately assigned to goodwill will be deductible for income taxes. The Company does not expect the final allocation of the purchase price to differ materially from the amounts included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

        Below is the preliminary purchase price allocation to each major asset and liability caption of the acquired packaged gas business:

	(In thousands)
Current assets	$	27,049
Property, plant and equipment, net		197,674
Goodwill		22,208
Intangible assets		3,786
Current liabilities		(8,635	)
Long-term liabilities		(812	)
Total	$	241,270

        Additionally, in September 2001, the Company acquired six retail distributor locations from Air Liquide America Corporation ("Air Liquide"). The purchase price of $11 million was paid to Air Liquide on October 1, 2001 and resulted in goodwill of approximately $7 million. The amount of goodwill associated with the Air Liquide transaction is consistent with similarly sized gas distribution acquisitions and is entirely deductible for income taxes.

Fiscal 2001

        During fiscal 2001, the Company purchased one business for approximately $2 million.

Fiscal 2000

        During fiscal 2000, the Company purchased six businesses. The largest of these acquisitions and their effective dates included Brown Welding Supply, LLC. (July 1, 1999), Oxygen Sales & Service, Inc. (August 1, 1999) and Puritan-Bennett Corporation (January 21, 2000). The aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions amounted to approximately $105 million. The purchase price for the remaining 3 businesses amounted to approximately $4 million.

F-12

        In connection with the above acquisitions, the total purchase price, cash paid and liabilities assumed were as follows:

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002		2001		2000
	(In thousands)
Cash paid	$	252,538	$	1,006	$	99,204
Issuance of common stock		—		—		—
Notes issued to sellers		—		—		1,399
Notes payable and capital leases assumed		1,466		—		561
Other liabilities assumed and accrued acquisition costs		8,451		536		7,762
Total purchase price	$	262,455	$	1,542	$	108,926

        The purchase price for business acquisitions was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. Such allocations have been based on preliminary estimates of fair value at the date of acquisition, which may be revised at a later date. Costs in excess of net assets acquired (goodwill) for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 amounted to $29.6 million, $600 thousand and $33 million, respectively.

        The following presents unaudited estimated pro forma operating results as if the fiscal 2002 and 2001 acquisitions had been consummated on April 1, 2000. The pro forma results were prepared from financial information provided by Air Products and reflect that company's historic cost structure, which included a significant allocation of corporate overhead. Pro forma adjustments to the Air Products results were limited to those related to the Company's stepped-up basis in acquired assets and adjustments to reflect the Company's borrowing and tax rates. The pro forma adjustments reflect the decline in the Company's average borrowing rates under the senior bank debt used to finance the acquisition. Those rates were 4.8% in fiscal 2002 and 8.2% in fiscal 2001. The pro forma results have been prepared for comparative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of what would have occurred had the acquisitions been made as of April 1, 2000 or of results that may occur in the future.

	Unaudited Years Ended March 31,
	2002			2001
	(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net sales	$	1,845,817		$	1,863,064
Income before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		52,633			26,232
Net earnings (loss)		(6,367	)		26,232
Diluted earnings (loss) per share		(.09	)		.39

(b) Divestitures

        In December 2001, the carrying values of the net assets of Kendeco, Inc., an industrial tool business in the Distribution operating segment, were reduced by $3.6 million to their net realizable value based on the estimated selling price less cost to sell of $3.5 million. The loss, reflected in Other income, net, included the write-off of $3.1 million of non-tax deductible goodwill. The Company completed the sale of Kendeco in May 2002. Kendeco's operations were reflected in the operating results of the Distribution segment.

        In October 2001, the Company sold two of its nitrous oxide production facilities to Air Liquide. The Company has retained its remaining four nitrous oxide production facilities to meet its requirements as a major producer and distributor of nitrous oxide. After-tax proceeds from the sale of

F-13

approximately $10 million were used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities. The Company recognized a gain on the transaction of $7.4 million in Other income, net in the fiscal 2002 third quarter. The nitrous oxide facilities were reflected in the operating results of the Gas Operations segment.

        In January 2001, the Company divested its Jackson Dome carbon dioxide reserve and associated pipeline for cash proceeds of approximately $42 million resulting in an insignificant gain. The Jackson Dome carbon dioxide reserve and associated pipeline was reflected in the operating results of the Gas Operations segment.

        In May 2000, the Company completed the sale of its equity investment in Bhoruka Gases Ltd., a regional industrial gas distributor in India. Proceeds from the sale, including a note receivable, were $1.1 million. The investment was sold for a loss of approximately $1.7 million, which had been provided for under the Company's 1998 special charges. In August 2000, the Company completed the sale of Superior Air Products Ltd., also located in India. Proceeds from the sale were $6.4 million and resulted in an insignificant gain. The equity investments in India were reflected in the operating results of the Distribution segment.

        During fiscal 2000, the Company completed the sale of its operations in Poland and Thailand and sold a non-core medical equipment distribution business. Proceeds from the sales amounted to $55.6 million and resulted in a gain of $17.5 million, which was recognized in Other income, net. The operations in Poland and Thailand were reflected in the operating results of the Distribution segment.

        The following table sets forth selected financial data, by business segment, related to the divested operations in fiscal years 2002, 2001 and 2000:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002		2001		2000
		(In thousands)
Net sales:
	Distribution	$	17,808	$	22,215	$	39,960
	Gas operations		3,467		11,194		9,251
	Total net sales		21,275		33,409		49,211
Operating income:
	Distribution		158		1,171		1,671
	Gas operations		1,233		5,277		2,387
	Total operating income	$	1,391	$	6,448	$	4,058

(3)  SPECIAL CHARGES (RECOVERIES)

        During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company announced the outsourcing of certain administrative functions to a financial shared services center to be managed and operated by an outside firm. The Company recorded a fourth quarter special charge of approximately $1.0 million ("2002 Special Charge") for severance costs (workforce reduction of 125 employees) and costs related to exiting one facility associated with the fiscal 2003 transition to the shared services center.

        During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, the Company recorded net special charges of $3.6 million. The net special charges (the "2001 Special Charges") included a charge of $8.5 million related to a cost reduction plan focused on improving results at certain business units partially offset by special charge recoveries of $4.9 million principally consisting of a favorable insurance settlement related to a fiscal 1997 special charge associated with the fraudulent breach of contract by a third-party supplier of refrigerant gases. The cost reduction plan included severance costs from a reduction in workforce; facility exit costs, primarily non-cancelable lease obligations, for the closure of 30 branch locations; and

F-14

impairment write-downs associated with the planned divestiture of certain non-core businesses. The major components of the fiscal 2001 Special Charges were as follows:

		2001
		(In thousands)
Severance costs		$	3,880
Facility exit costs			2,464
Impairment write-down			2,188
	2001 Special Charges		8,532
Special charge recoveries			(4,889	)
	Special Charges, net	$	3,643

        At March 31, 2002 and 2001, accrued liabilities associated with the 2001 special charge were as follows:

	Severance costs			Facility exit costs			Divestitures			Total
	(In thousands)
2001 Special Charges	$	3,880		$	2,464		$	2,188		$	8,532
Cash payments		(913	)		(34	)		—			(947	)
Incurred losses		(240	)		—			(2,188	)		(2,428	)
March 31, 2001 liability	$	2,727		$	2,430		$	—		$	5,157
Cash payments		(2,162	)		(289	)		—			(2,451	)
Change in estimates		(565	)		(392	)		—			(957	)
March 31, 2002 liability	$	—		$	1,749		$	—		$	1,749

        During fiscal 2002, the Company reduced its estimate related to severance and facility exit costs associated with the 2001 cost reduction plan by approximately $1.0 million. The change in estimate was recorded as a recovery in fiscal 2002 through the Special charges (recoveries) line in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings. The liability for facility exit costs at March 31, 2002 relates to non-cancelable lease obligations that will be reduced over future periods as lease payments are made over the remaining terms of the leases.

        Special charge recoveries in fiscal 2000 primarily consist of recoveries of $2.8 million from an insurance settlement related to a fiscal 1997 special charge associated with the fraudulent breach of contract by a third-party supplier of refrigerant gases.

F-15

(4)  EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

        Basic earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net earnings (loss) by the weighted average number of shares of the Company's common stock outstanding during the period. Outstanding shares consist of issued shares less treasury stock and common stock held by the Employee Benefits Trust. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net earnings (loss) by the weighted average common shares outstanding adjusted for the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents related to stock options, warrants and contingently issuable shares.

        The table below reconciles basic weighted average common shares outstanding to diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the three years ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002	2001	2000
		(In thousands)
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic		68,100	66,000	69,200
	Stock options and warrants	1,800	600	1,000
	Contingently issuable shares	—	600	400
Diluted		69,900	67,200	70,600

        Contingently issuable shares represent the required issuance of Company common stock in connection with a prior year acquisition.

(5)  INVENTORIES, NET

        Inventories, net, consist of:

	March 31,
	2002		2001
	(In thousands)
Hardgoods	$	139,034	$	143,121
Gases		15,011		11,903
	$	154,045	$	155,024

        Net inventories determined by the LIFO inventory method totaled $15.2 million and $19.1 million at March 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. If the FIFO inventory method had been used for these inventories, they would have been $1.3 million and $1.5 million higher at March 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Substantially all of the inventories are finished goods.

F-16

(6)  PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

        The major classes of plant and equipment, at cost, are as follows:

		March 31,
	Depreciable Lives (Yrs)
		2002		2001
		(In thousands)
Land and land improvements	—	$	36,452	$	24,739
Buildings and leasehold improvements	25		118,243		103,002
Cylinders	30		645,298		486,909
Machinery and equipment, including bulk tanks	7 to 30		352,368		318,757
Computers and furniture and fixtures	3 to 10		86,234		76,679
Transportation equipment	3 to 15		60,818		54,950
Construction in progress	—		9,588		8,216
		$	1,309,001	$	1,073,252

(7)  GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

        As described in Note 1, the Company adopted SFAS 142 as of April 1, 2001. The following table reconciles the reported operating income, equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, earnings before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle and net income for fiscal 2001 and 2000 to their respective pro forma balances adjusted to exclude goodwill amortization expense, which is no longer recognized under the provisions of SFAS 142. Fiscal 2002 results, adjusted for a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, are presented for comparative purposes.

F-17

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002			2001		2000
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Operating income:
	Distribution segment	$	103,430		$	85,907	$	95,248
	Gas Operations segment		21,603			22,042		11,483
	Total reported operating income		125,033			107,949		106,731
	Add back: Distribution goodwill amortization		—			12,320		11,943
	Add back: Gas Operations goodwill amortization.		—			2,117		2,052
	Add back: Total goodwill amortization		—			14,437		13,995
	Adjusted Distribution operating income		103,430			98,227		107,191
	Adjusted Gas Operations operating income		21,603			24,159		13,535
	Adjusted total operating income	$	125,033		$	122,386	$	120,726
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates:
	Reported equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	$	3,835		$	2,260	$	3,391
	Add back: equity method goodwill amortization		—			1,701		1,701
	Adjusted equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	$	3,835		$	3,961	$	5,092
Earnings before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle:
	Reported earnings before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle	$	48,585		$	28,223	$	38,873
	Add back: goodwill amortization after tax		—			13,740		13,486
	Adjusted earnings before the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle	$	48,585		$	41,963	$	52,359
Net income:
	Reported net income (loss)	$	(10,415	)	$	28,223	$	38,283
	Add back: goodwill amortization after tax		—			13,740		13,486
	Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		59,000			—		590
	Adjusted net income	$	48,585		$	41,963	$	52,359
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Reported net income (loss)	$	(.15	)	$	.43	$	.55
	Goodwill amortization after tax		—			.21		.19
	Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		.86			—		.01
	Adjusted basic earnings per share	$	.71		$	.64	$	.75
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Reported net income (loss)	$	(.15	)	$	.42	$	.54
	Goodwill amortization after tax		—			.20		.19
	Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		.84			—		.01
	Adjusted diluted earnings per share	$	.69		$	.62	$	.74

F-18

        Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal 2002 were as follows:

		Distribution Segment			Gas Operations Segment			Total
		(In thousands)
Balance at March 31, 2001		$	364,943		$	75,114		$	440,057
	Acquisitions		29,616			—			29,616
	Divestitures		(3,146	)		(811	)		(3,957	)
	Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle		(59,000	)		—			(59,000	)
	Other adjustments		(88	)		(80	)		(168	)
Balance at March 31, 2002		$	332,325		$	74,223		$	406,548

        Other intangible assets amounted to $25.7 million (net of accumulated amortization of $77.6 million) and $29.6 million (net of accumulated amortization of $71.5 million) at March 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. These intangible assets primarily consist of non-compete agreements entered into in connection with business combinations and are amortized over the term of the agreements, principally five years. There are no expected residual values related to these intangible assets. Estimated future amortization expense by fiscal year is as follows ($ in millions): 2003—$6.6; 2004—$6.2; 2005—$4.3; 2006—$3.7 and $4.9 thereafter.

F-19

(8)  ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

        Accrued expenses and other current liabilities include:

	March 31,
	2002		2001
	(In thousands)
Cash overdraft	$	7,419	$	24,445
Accrued payroll and employee benefits		32,443		24,989
Business insurance reserves		13,266		10,043
Health insurance reserves		7,628		5,553
Accrued interest expense		17,255		6,539
Litigation reserves		11,292		8,007
Other accrued expenses and current liabilities		47,087		51,297
	$	136,390	$	130,873

        The cash overdraft is attributable to the float of the Company's outstanding checks. The litigation reserves in both fiscal years primarily relate to defense and settlement costs associated with the Praxair litigation (see Note 21).

(9)  INDEBTEDNESS

(a)    Long-term Debt

        Long-term debt consists of:

	March 31,
	2002			2001
	(In thousands)
Revolving credit borrowings	$	229,309		$	414,983
Term loan		100,000			—
Medium-term notes		181,275			225,000
Senior subordinated notes		222,864			—
Acquisition and other notes		33,132			53,626
Total long-term debt		766,580			693,609
Less current portion of long-term debt		(2,456	)		(72,945	)
Long-term debt, excluding current portion	$	764,124		$	620,664

Revolving Credit Facilities

        On July 30, 2001, the Company refinanced its existing revolving credit facilities due December 5, 2002. The refinanced credit facilities consist of revolving credit facilities with a syndicate of lenders totaling $367.5 million and $50 million Canadian (US $32 million), including letters of credit. The revolving credit facilities will mature on July 30, 2006. At March 31, 2002, the Company had borrowings under the revolving facilities of approximately $208 million and $35 million Canadian (US $21 million). The Company also had commitments under letters of credit supported by the revolving credit facilities of approximately $38 million at March 31, 2002. Based on restrictions related to certain leverage ratios, the Company had additional borrowing capacity under the revolving facilities of approximately $105 million at March 31, 2002. The variable interest rates of the U.S. and Canadian revolving credit facilities are based on the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") and Canadian Bankers' Acceptance Rates, respectively. At March 31, 2002, the effective interest rates on borrowings under the

F-20

revolving facilities were 3.98% on U.S. borrowings and 2.15% on Canadian borrowings. Certain of the Company's domestic subsidiaries guarantee borrowings under the revolving facilities and foreign subsidiaries also guarantee Canadian borrowings. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company's credit rating as determined by third-party credit rating agencies was lowered in response to additional indebtedness related to the Air Products acquisition (see Note 2). The lower credit rating required the Company to pledge 100% of the stock of its domestic guarantor subsidiaries and 65% of the stock of its foreign guarantor subsidiaries for the benefit of the syndicate of lenders. If the Company's credit rating is further reduced, the Company will be required to grant a security interest in substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of the Company for the benefit of the syndicate of lenders. The revolving credit facilities also contain covenants, which include the maintenance of certain leverage ratios, a fixed charge ratio, and potential restrictions on certain additional borrowings, the payment of dividends and the repurchase of common stock.

Term Loan

        In connection with the Air Products acquisition in February 2002, the Company amended its revolving credit facilities to permit the acquisition and obtained a $100 million term loan from a syndicate of lenders. The term loan is due in quarterly installments beginning June 30, 2002 with a final payment due July 30, 2006. The term loan is unsecured and bears a variable interest rate based on LIBOR plus a spread related to the Company's credit rating. At March 31, 2002, the effective interest rate of the term loan was 4.15%. The additional term loan along with the Company's revolving credit facilities enabled Company to finance the Air Products acquisition entirely with senior bank debt.

Medium-Term Notes

        At March 31, 2002, the Company had the following medium-term notes outstanding: $75 million of unsecured notes due March 2004 bearing interest at a fixed rate of 7.14% and $100 million of unsecured notes due September 2006 bearing interest at a fixed rate of 7.75%.

Senior Subordinated Notes

        On July 30, 2001, concurrent with the refinancing of its revolving credit facilities, the Company issued $225 million of senior subordinated notes (the "Notes") with a maturity date of October 1, 2011. The Notes bear interest at a fixed annual rate of 9.125%, payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year with the first interest payment due on April 1, 2002. The Notes were sold in accordance with the provisions of Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"). In October 2001, the Company exchanged the Notes for substantially similar notes that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with the Securities Act. No gain or loss was recognized as a result of the exchange. The notes contain covenants that restrict the payment of dividends, the issuance of preferred stock, and the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens. The notes are guaranteed on a subordinated basis by each of the domestic guarantors under the revolving credit facilities.

Acquisition and Other Notes

        Acquisition and other notes principally represent notes issued to sellers of businesses acquired and are repayable in periodic installments. At March 31, 2002, acquisition and other notes of $33 million had interest rates ranging from 7.00% to 9.00%. In the first quarter of fiscal 2003, the Company refinanced $20 million of the acquisition notes with borrowings under its revolving credit facilities.

F-21

Aggregate Long-term Debt Maturities

        The aggregate maturities of long-term debt are as follows:

Years Ending March 31,	Aggregate Maturity
	(In thousands)
2003	$	2,456
2004		96,031
2005		23,143
2006		35,818
2007		385,847
Thereafter		223,285
	$	766,580

(b)    Swap Agreements

        In managing interest rate exposure, the Company participates in 12 interest rate swap agreements with a total notional principal amount of $323 million at March 31, 2002. Counterparties to the interest rate swap agreements are major financial institutions. The Company monitors its positions and the credit ratings of its counterparties, and does not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties.

        Seven swap agreements with approximately $168 million in notional principal amount require the Company to make fixed interest payments based on an average effective rate of 6.64% and receive variable interest payments from its counterparties based on three month LIBOR (average rate of 1.93% at March 31, 2002.) The remaining terms of these swap agreements range from between three months and three years. Five swap agreements with approximately $155 million in notional principal amount require the Company to make variable interest payments based on six month LIBOR (average rate of 3.78% at March 31, 2002) and receive fixed interest payments from its counterparties based on an average effective rate of 8.05% at March 31, 2002. The remaining terms of these swap agreements range from between one and nine years. Under the terms of one of the swap agreements, the Company has elected to receive the discounted value of the counterparty's interest payments up front. At March 31, 2002, $424 thousand of such payments was included in other current liabilities. The effect of the swap agreements was to increase interest expense by approximately $2.9 million, $1.6 million and $3.2 million in 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

        The aggregate maturities of the Company's interest rate swaps by type of swap for the five years ending March 31, 2007 and thereafter are as follows:

	Notional Principal Amounts
Years Ending March 31,
	Pay-Fixed		Pay-Variable
	(In thousands)
2003	$	127,500	$	—
2004		—		30,000
2005		40,000		—
2006		—		—
2007		—		50,000
Thereafter		—		75,000
	$	167,500	$	155,000

F-22

(10) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

        Summarized below are the carrying and fair values of the Company's financial instruments at March 31, 2002 and 2001.

        The fair value of the Company's financial instruments is based on estimates using standard pricing models that take into account the present value of future cash flows as of the balance sheet date. The computation of fair values of these instruments is generally performed by the Company. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for trade receivables and payables, accrued liabilities, accrued income taxes, and short-term borrowings approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. Accordingly, these items have been excluded from the table below.

		2002 Carrying Value			2002 Fair Value			2001 Carrying Value		2001 Fair Value
		(In thousands)
Financial Instruments:
Revolving credit borrowings		$	229,309		$	229,309		$	414,983	$	414,983
Senior subordinated notes			222,864			234,000			—		—
Term loan			100,000			100,000			—		—
Medium-term notes			181,275			175,000			225,000		218,661
Acquisition and other notes			33,132			33,094			53,626		53,013
Prepaid interest rate swap agreements			424			680			1,441		1,970
Interest rate swap agreements:
	—Fair value hedge		(4,140	)		(4,140	)		—		(5,951	)
	—Cash flow hedge		4,924			4,924			—		6,664

(11) DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

        The Company's involvement with derivative instruments is limited to highly effective fixed and floating interest rate swap agreements used to manage well-defined interest rate risk exposures. Interest rate swap agreements are not entered into for trading purposes. As described in Note 1, the Company adopted SFAS 133 as of April 1, 2001.

F-23

        At March 31, 2002, the Company had a notional amount of $168 million in fixed interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert a corresponding amount of variable interest rate borrowings under the revolving credit facilities and operating leases to fixed interest rate instruments. In fiscal 2002, the Company recorded a net change in the fair value of the fixed interest rate swap agreements of $1.7 million as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The net additional interest payments made under these swap agreements during the quarter were recognized in interest expense. Over the next 12 months, the Company expects to reclassify approximately $2.7 million of the deferred loss from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to interest expense as swap agreements mature.

        At March 31, 2002, the Company also had a notional amount of $155 million in variable interest rate swap agreements that effectively converts a corresponding amount of fixed rate medium-term and senior subordinated notes to variable rate debt. The fair value of these variable interest rate swap agreements and the increased carrying value of the hedged portions of the medium-term and senior subordinated notes at March 31, 2002 was $4.1 million. The changes in the fair value of the swap agreements are offset by changes in the fair value of the hedged portions of the medium-term and senior subordinated notes.

(12) TRADE RECEIVABLES SECURITIZATION

        The Company participates in a securitization agreement with two commercial banks to sell up to $175 million of qualifying trade receivables. The agreement expires in December 2003, but the initial term is subject to renewal provisions contained in the agreement. During fiscal 2002, the Company sold, net of its retained interest, $1.71 billion of trade receivables and remitted to bank conduits, pursuant to a servicing agreement, $1.58 billion in collections on those receivables. The net proceeds were used to reduce borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facilities. The amount of outstanding receivables under the agreement was $134 million at March 31, 2002 and $73 million at March 31, 2001. Proceeds received by the Company pursuant to the securitization agreement were used to reduce borrowings on its revolving credit facilities.

        The transaction has been accounted for as a sale under the provisions of SFAS No. 140, Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities. Under the securitization agreement, eligible trade receivables are sold to bank conduits through a bankruptcy-remote special purpose entity, which is consolidated for financial reporting purposes. The difference between the proceeds from the sale and the carrying value of the receivables is recognized as discount on securitization of trade receivables in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Earnings and varies on a monthly basis depending on the amount of receivables sold and market rates. The Company retains a subordinated interest in the receivables sold, which is recorded at the receivables' previous carrying value. A subordinated retained interest of approximately $41 million and $26 million is included in Trade receivables in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 2002 and 2001, respectively. In accordance with a servicing agreement, the Company will continue to service, administer and collect the trade receivables on behalf of the bank conduits. The servicing fees charged to the bank conduits approximate the costs of collections. The Company also maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts on trade receivables that it retains.

(13) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(a)    Common Stock

        The Company is authorized to issue up to 200 million shares of common stock with a par value of $.01 per share. At March 31, 2002, the number of shares of common stock outstanding was 70.3 million, excluding 547 thousand shares of common stock held as treasury stock and 4.3 million shares of common stock held in a grantor trust as described under Note 13(d).

F-24

(b)    Preferred Stock and Redeemable Preferred Stock

        The Company is authorized to issue up to 20 million shares of preferred stock. Of the 20 million shares authorized, 200 thousand shares have been designated as Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock and 200 thousand shares have been designated as Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock (see Note 13(e) for further discussion). At March 31, 2002 and 2001, no shares of the preferred stock were issued or outstanding. The preferred stock may be issued from time to time by the Company's Board of Directors in one or more series. The Board of Directors is authorized to fix the dividend rights and terms, conversion rights, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption, liquidation preferences, and any other rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of any series of preferred stock, and the number of shares constituting each such series and designation thereof.

        Additionally, the Company is authorized to issue 30 thousand shares of redeemable preferred stock. At March 31, 2002 and 2001, no shares were issued or outstanding.

(c)    Treasury Stock

        In March 1999, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to seven million shares of the Company's outstanding common stock. The authorization provided for the repurchase of shares in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions and other factors. In accordance with the March 1999 share repurchase authorization, the Company acquired 31 thousand, 1.4 million and 5.3 million shares of common stock in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. In fiscal 2001 and 2000, the Company reissued 2 million and 4.2 million shares of common stock to the Company's Employee Benefits Trust (the "Trust"), as discussed in Note 13(d). No shares were reissued from treasury in fiscal 2002. When treasury shares are reissued, the Company uses an average cost method with the excess of the repurchase cost over the reissuance price accounted for as a charge to capital in excess of par value. The Company's stock repurchase program has been completed.

(d)    Shares in Employee Benefits Trust

        In March 1999, the Company established the grantor Trust to fund certain future obligations of the Company's employee benefit and compensation plans. The Company, pursuant to a Common Stock Purchase Agreement, sold shares of common stock to the Trust. The Company holds promissory notes from the Trust in the amount of each purchase. Shares held by the Trust serve as collateral for the promissory notes and are available to fund employee benefit plan obligations as the promissory notes are repaid. The shares held by the Trust are not considered outstanding for earnings per share purposes until they are released from serving as collateral for the promissory notes. An independent third-party financial institution serves as the Trustee. The Trustee votes or tenders shares held by the Trust in accordance with instructions received from the participants in the employee benefit and compensation plans to be funded by the Trust. Since inception of the Trust in fiscal 1999, the Trust purchased approximately seven million shares of common stock, previously held as treasury stock, from the Company, for approximately $54 million. Approximately 1.4 million, 1.2 million and 230 thousand shares were issued from the Trust for employee benefit programs during fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

(e)    Stockholder Rights Plan

        Effective April 1, 1997, the Company's Board of Directors adopted a new stockholder rights plan (the "1997 Rights Plan"). Pursuant to the 1997 Rights Plan, the Board of Directors declared a dividend distribution of one right for each share of common stock. Each right entitles the holder to purchase from the Company one one-thousandth of a share Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock at an initial exercise price of $100 per share.

F-25

        Rights become exercisable only following the acquisition by a person or group of 15 percent (or 20 percent in the case of the Chairman and certain of his affiliates) or more of the Company's common stock or after the announcement of a tender offer or exchange offer to acquire 15 percent (or 20 percent in the case of the Chairman and certain of his affiliates) or more of the outstanding common stock. If such a person or group acquires 15 percent or more (or 20 percent or more, as the case may be) of the common stock, each right (other than such person's or group's rights, which will become void) will entitle the holder to purchase, at the exercise price, common stock having a market value equal to twice the exercise price. In certain circumstances, the rights may be redeemed by the Company. If not redeemed, they will expire on April 1, 2007.

(f)    Warrants

        During fiscal 2002, the Company granted warrants to purchase 324,000 shares of the Company's common stock to an outside consulting firm for services rendered. The warrants have a term of three years from the date of grant and have exercise prices in excess of market value on the date of grant ranging from $11.98 to $18.78 per share. The aggregate value of the warrants on the dates of grant, as determined by the Black-Scholes model, was $1.1 million, which the Company expensed during fiscal 2002.

(14) STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

        The Company has elected to continue to account for its stock-based compensation plans in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, as permitted by SFAS No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for its stock option and employee stock purchase plans. However, pro forma information regarding net earnings and earnings per share is required. Had compensation expense for the Company's stock-based compensation plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant date, the Company's pro forma net earnings and earnings per share for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 would be as follows:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002			2001		2000
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net earnings (loss)	As reported	$	(10,415	)	$	28,223	$	38,283
	Pro forma	$	(17,085	)	$	22,142	$	32,602
Diluted earnings (loss) per share	As reported	$	(0.15	)	$	...42	$	...54
	Pro forma	$	(0.24	)	$	.33	$	.46

        The pro forma impact only takes into account options granted since April 1, 1995 and is likely to have a greater impact in future years as additional options are granted and amortized ratably over the vesting period.

        The Company's stock-based compensation plans are described below.

(a)    Employee Stock Option Plans

        The Company has a stock plan under which officers and key employees may be granted options. In May 1997, the Company adopted the 1997 Stock Option Plan (the "1997 Plan"). The 1997 Plan replaced the previous 1984 Stock Option Plan. Options granted under the 1997 Plan vest 25% annually and have a maximum term of ten years. Under the 1997 Plan, at March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, 2.6 million, 3.7 million and 5.4 million options, respectively, were available for issuance. In fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, 1.5 million, 1.7 million and 1.1 million options, respectively, were granted with an

F-26

exercise price equal to market price at the date of grant. Options under the 1997 Plan are generally granted in May of each year.

        The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 option grants, respectively: expected volatility of 48.8%, 51.1% and 44.2%, risk-free interest rate of 4.7%, 6.5% and 5.6%, and expected life of 7.2, 5.6 and 4.9 years. The weighted average fair value per share of the options granted during fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 was $5.31, $3.13 and $5.19, respectively.

        The following table summarizes the activity of the employee stock option plans during the three years ended March 31, 2002:

	Number of Shares		Exercise Price Per Share
March 31, 2000
Outstanding, beginning of year	7,209,520		$	1.83	-	$	23.25
Granted	1,126,845			6.06	-		12.50
Exercised	(576,772	)		1.83	-		11.32
Expired	(489,932	)		6.31	-		22.00
March 31, 2001
Outstanding, beginning of year	7,269,661			1.83	-		23.25
Granted	1,734,215			4.63	-		8.25
Exercised	(397,494	)		1.83	-		8.50
Expired	(300,421	)		5.21	-		22.00
March 31, 2002
Outstanding, beginning of year	8,305,961			1.83	-		23.25
Granted	1,525,120			8.54	-		19.45
Exercised	(1,049,173	)		1.83	-		19.00
Expired	(556,798	)		5.50	-		22.00
Outstanding, end of year	8,225,110		$	3.30	-	$	23.25

        Options for 4.7 million, 4.9 million and 4.6 million shares were exercisable at March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

(b)    Board of Directors Stock Option Plans

        The Company also maintains stock option plans covering directors who are not employees. In May 1997, the Company adopted the 1997 Directors' Stock Option Plan (the "1997 Directors' Plan"). The 1997 Directors' Plan replaced the previous 1989 Stock Option Plan for Directors. The 1997 Directors' Plan reserved 500 thousand shares for issuance. Options under the 1997 Directors' Plan are exercisable in full on the date of grant.

        Under the 1997 Directors' Plan, at March 31, 2002, 173,500 options were available for issuance. During fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, 80,000, 100,000 and 62,500 options, respectively, were granted with an exercise price equal to the market price at the date of grant and have a maximum term of ten years.

        The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions used for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 option grants, respectively: expected volatility of 51.1%, 51.1% and 44.8%, risk-free interest rate of 4.6%, 6.1% and 5.8%, and expected life of 5.7, 5.6 and 5.4 years. The weighted average fair value per share of the stock options granted during fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 was $6.61, $2.85 and $6.01, respectively.

F-27

        The following table summarizes the activity of the Board of Directors stock option plans during the three years ended March 31, 2002:

	Number of Shares		Exercise Price Per Share
March 31, 2000
Outstanding, beginning of year	314,000		$	2.09	-	$	19.25
Granted	62,500			12.25
Exercised	(16,000	)		2.20
March 31, 2001
Outstanding, beginning of year	360,500			2.09	-		19.25
Granted	100,000			5.25
Exercised	(32,000	)		2.09	-		2.14
March 31, 2002
Outstanding, beginning of year	428,500			2.09	-		19.25
Granted	80,000			12.40
Exercised	(32,000	)		2.09	-		13.82
Outstanding, end of year	476,500		$	4.16	-	$	19.25

        Options for 476,500, 428,500 and 360,500 shares were exercisable at March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

        The following table summarizes information about options outstanding and exercisable for the employee and Board of Directors stock option plans at March 31, 2002:

Options Outstanding
Weighted Average Remaining Life	Number Outstanding	Exercise Price Per Share
1.89	594,134	$	3.30	-	$	5.25
8.13	1,258,380		5.44	-		5.50
4.60	1,329,057		5.56	-		8.50
8.89	1,437,170		8.54	-		8.99
5.99	1,145,269		9.29	-		11.50
4.47	1,491,642		11.98	-		15.63
5.15	1,006,350		15.94	-		21.25
4.16	439,608		22.00	-		23.25
5.84	8,701,610	$	3.30	-	$	23.25

F-28

Options Exercisable
Number of Options Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share
592,072	$	3.89
252,762		5.50
989,949		7.26
41,250		8.56
666,305		11.43
1,427,642		14.41
814,771		16.63
439,608		22.05
5,224,359	$	11.99

(c) Employee Stock Purchase Plans

        In August 2001, the Company established the Airgas, Inc. 2001 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "2001 Plan") to encourage and assist employees in acquiring an equity interest in the Company. The 2001 Plan replaced the previous 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "1998 Plan"). During fiscal 2002, the remaining shares of common stock authorized under the 1998 Plan were issued. The 2001 Plan is authorized to issue up to 1.5 million shares of common stock. Eligible employees may elect to have up to 15% of their annual gross earnings withheld to purchase common stock at 85% of the market value. Market value under the 2001 Plan is defined as either the closing share price on the New York Stock Exchange as of the employees' enrollment date or the closing price on the last business day of a fiscal quarter, whichever is lower. An employee may lock-in a purchase price for up to 27 months. The 2001 Plan is designed to comply with the requirements of Sections 421 and 423 of the Internal Revenue Code. The terms of the Company's previous 1998 Plan were substantially identical to the terms of the 2001 Plan. During fiscal 2002, the Company issued 1.1 million shares, provided from the Employee Benefits Trust, to fund purchases made by employees under the 2001 and 1998 Plans at an average purchase price of $6.58 per share. During fiscal 2001, the Company issued 1.2 million shares from the Employee Benefits Trust for the 1998 Plan at an average purchase price of $4.86 per share. During fiscal 2000, the Company issued 806 thousand shares from the Employee Benefits Trust and treasury stock for the 1998 Plan at an average purchase price of $7.09 per share.

        Compensation expense under SFAS 123 is measured based on the fair value of the employees' option to purchase shares of common stock at the grant date and is recognized over the future periods in which the related employee service is rendered. The fair value of the employees' option to purchase shares of common stock is estimated using the Black-Scholes model. The assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the employees' option to purchase shares of common stock at grant dates in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively, were: average expected volatility of 61%, 63% and 51%, average risk-free interest rate of 2.6%, 5.4% and 6.0%, and expected option terms ranging from 3 to 27 months. Had the Company adopted SFAS 123, compensation expense related to the Employee Stock Purchase Plans would have been $4.1 million, $1.7 million, and $3.7 million in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

(15) INVESTMENTS IN UNCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES

        The Company's investments in unconsolidated affiliates totaled approximately $65 million at March 31, 2002, and $63 million at March 31, 2001. The Company's investments include a 47% joint venture interest in the voting capital stock of National Welders. National Welders is a distributor of industrial, medical and specialty gases and related equipment based in Charlotte, North Carolina. On

F-29

February 28, 2002, National Welders purchased Air Products' packaged gas operations in the Carolinas and southern Virginia. These operations have annual revenues of approximately $17 million. The investment in National Welders totaled approximately $57 million at March 31, 2002 and $55 million at March 31, 2001. The Company's other investments in unconsolidated affiliates totaled approximately $8 million at March 31, 2002 and 2001 and primarily consist of a 50% joint venture interest in AC Industries.

        The Company accounts for investments in unconsolidated affiliates by the equity method of accounting, as described in Note 1. The Company's share of earnings from all unconsolidated affiliates was $3.8 million, $2.3 million, $3.4 million for the years ended March 31, 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively.

        A summary of unaudited financial information for investments in unconsolidated affiliates for the years ended March 31, 2002 and 2001 were as follows:

		March 31,
		2002		2001
		(In thousands)
Current assets		$	39,704	$	44,731
Non-current assets			144,439		121,852
	Total assets	$	184,143	$	166,583
Current liabilities		$	24,942	$	29,441
Non-current liabilities			105,474		91,798
Stockholders' equity			53,727		45,344
	Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	184,143	$	166,583

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002			2001			2000
	(In thousands)
Net sales	$	166,702		$	182,630		$	193,335
Cost of sales		105,476			118,244			126,249
Gross profit		61,226			64,386			67,086
Earnings before taxes		13,409			13,086			13,571
Net earnings		8,725			9,162			9,428
Preferred stock dividends and equity earnings adjustments		(4,890	)		(6,902	)		(6,037	)
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates	$	3,835		$	2,260		$	3,391

        The Company's fiscal 2002 equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates reflects the Company's adoption of FAS 142 under which the carrying value of the Company's investment in excess of its unconsolidated affiliates' underlying equity is no longer amortized. See Note 7 for a reconciliation of prior period results as reported to results adjusted to exclude this amortization expense.

F-30

(16) INTEREST EXPENSE, NET

        Interest expense, net, consists of:

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002			2001			2000
	(In thousands)
Interest expense	$	48,035		$	61,434		$	58,712
Interest and finance charge income		(1,022	)		(1,227	)		(1,152	)
	$	47,013		$	60,207		$	57,560

(17) INCOME TAXES

        Earnings before income taxes and the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle were derived from the following sources:

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002		2001		2000
	(In thousands)
United States	$	74,947	$	46,021	$	69,028
Foreign		3,444		2,920		1,396
	$	78,391	$	48,941	$	70,424

        Income tax expense (benefit) consists of:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002			2001			2000
		(In thousands)
Current:
	Federal	$	(6,693	)	$	12,286		$	16,554
	Foreign		1,534			1,135			408
	State		387			2,145			1,466
			(4,772	)		15,566			18,428
Deferred:
	Federal		32,348			6,173			10,325
	Foreign		329			594			847
	State		1,901			(1,615	)		1,951
			34,578			5,152			13,123
		$	29,806		$	20,718		$	31,551

        As of March 31, 2002, the Company has reflected a tax refund receivable of $27.7 million in Prepaid expenses and other current assets. The tax refund was principally the result of the 2002 Job Creation and Work Assistance Act ("the Act"), which provided for a 30% bonus depreciation deduction for assets placed in service after September 10, 2001. As a result of the Act and the Company's significant acquisitions subsequent to September 10, 2001, the Company recognized a current period tax benefit and deferred tax expense related to the bonus depreciation deduction. The bonus depreciation deduction was a principle contributor to a current net operating loss position, which the company elected to carry back to prior tax years.

F-31

        Significant differences between taxes computed at the federal statutory rate and the provision for income taxes were:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002		2001		2000
Taxes at U.S. federal statutory rate		35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
Increase in income taxes resulting from:
	State income taxes, net of federal benefit	1.5	%	1.1	%	2.1	%
	Amortization of non-deductible goodwill			4.9	%	4.7	%
	Divestitures	1.8	%	—		2.6	%
	Equity accounting for unconsolidated affiliates	(1.2	)%	(1.1	)%	(1.1	)%
	Other, net	0.9	%	2.4	%	1.5	%
		38.0	%	42.3	%	44.8	%

        The decrease in the effective tax rate in fiscal 2002 is primarily related to the Company no longer amortizing goodwill as described in Notes 1 and 7.

        The tax effects of cumulative temporary differences that gave rise to the significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

		March 31,
		2002			2001
		(In thousands)
Deferred Tax Assets:
	Inventories	$	5,955		$	5,852
	Accounts receivable		(124	)		406
	Deferred rental income		959			528
	Insurance reserves		7,573			4,391
	Special charges (Note 3)		1,581			5,396
	Litigation settlement and other reserves		6,406			1,649
	Intangible assets		(5,907	)		(71	)
	Other		14,365			11,523
	Valuation allowance		(5,976	)		(4,263	)
			24,832			25,411
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
	Plant and equipment		(194,703	)		(160,000	)
	Other		(15,092	)		(16,444	)
			(209,795	)		(176,444	)
Net deferred tax liability		$	(184,963	)	$	(151,033	)

F-32

        Current tax assets and current tax liabilities have been netted for presentation purposes. Non-current tax assets and non-current tax liabilities have also been netted. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected in the Company's consolidated balance sheets as follows:

	March 31,
	2002			2001
	(In thousands)
Current deferred tax asset, net	$	13,210		$	10,143
Non-current deferred tax liability, net		(198,173	)		(161,176	)
Net deferred tax liability	$	(184,963	)	$	(151,033	)

        The Company has recorded tax benefits amounting to $4.3 million, $800 thousand and $1.6 million in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively, resulting from the exercise of stock options. This benefit has been recorded in capital in excess of par value.

        In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the reversal of deferred tax liabilities and projected future taxable income in making this assessment. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences, net of the existing valuation allowances, at March 31, 2002. Valuation allowances which increased by $1.7 million in fiscal year 2002, primarily relate to certain state tax net operating loss carry forwards.

(18) BENEFIT PLANS

        The Company has a defined contribution 401(k) plan (the "401(k) plan") covering substantially all full-time employees. Under the terms of the 401(k) plan, the Company makes matching contributions up to two percent of participants' wages plus additional discretionary profit sharing contributions based upon the profitability of the Company. Amounts expensed under the 401(k) plan for fiscal 2002, 2001, and 2000 were $4.7 million, $5.8 million and $5.9 million, respectively.

        Certain subsidiaries of the Company participate in multi-employer pension and post-retirement plans which provide defined benefits to union employees. Contributions are made to the plans in accordance with negotiated labor contracts. The Company has not taken any action to terminate or withdraw from these plans. Management believes that the Company's liability, if any, for multi-employer plan withdrawal liability will not have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. Amounts expensed under the pension plans for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 were $642 thousand, $543 thousand and $526 thousand, respectively.

        Effective January 2002, the Company offered eligible employees the opportunity to participate in a non-qualified deferred compensation plan (the "Plan"). The Plan, which is not required to be funded, allows eligible employees to defer a portion of their compensation until their retirement. The costs associated with the Plan during fiscal 2002 were not material. At March 31, 2002, the Company had a liability of $100 thousand related to compensation deferred and related interest under the Plan.

(19) RELATED PARTIES

        During the years ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, National Welders, an unconsolidated equity affiliate, paid $3.8 million, $3.8 million and $3.5 million, respectively, to the Company for gas products, hardgoods and services. In addition, National Welders sold gas products and hardgoods to the

F-33

Company in the amounts of $1.1 million, $787 thousand and $330 thousand in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. In connection with the Praxair litigation (see Note 21), the Company reimbursed National Welders for legal fees of $482 thousand, $260 thousand and $484 thousand in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

        The Company paid $7.7 million, $7.9 million and $9.1 million to AC Industries, an unconsolidated equity affiliate, for the purchase of liquid carbon dioxide during the years ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. In addition, the Company had a net payable balance to AC Industries totaling $1.2 million, $1.2 million and $695 thousand at March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively.

(20) LEASES

        The Company leases certain distribution facilities and equipment under long-term operating leases with varying terms. Most leases contain renewal options and in some instances, purchase options. Rentals under these long-term leases for the years ended March 31, 2002, 2001, and 2000, amounted to $45.4 million, $43.7 million, and $38.5 million, respectively. Certain operating facilities are leased at market rates from employees of the Company who were previous owners of businesses acquired. The Company also has several capital leases assumed as part of prior acquisitions. Outstanding capital lease obligations and the related capital assets are not material to the consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2002 and 2001.

        The Company leases real estate and certain equipment from a trust established by a commercial bank. The operating leases are structured as a sale-leaseback transaction in which the trust holds title to the properties and equipment included in the leases. The rental payments are based on LIBOR plus an applicable margin and the cost of the property acquired by the trust. At March 31, 2002, the non-cancelable lease obligation of the real estate and equipment leases totaled approximately $43 million. The lease terms expire in October 2004. The Company has guaranteed a residual value of the real estate and the equipment at the end of the lease terms of approximately $30 million. A gain of approximately $12 million on the equipment portion of the transaction has been deferred until the expiration of the Company's guarantee of the residual value.

        At March 31, 2002, future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases, including the residual value associated with the sale-leaseback transaction, are as follows:

	(In thousands)
2003	$	37,900
2004		31,040
2005		65,710
2006		19,517
2007		13,889
Thereafter		15,418
	$	183,474

(21) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

(a)    Legal

        In July 1996, Praxair, Inc. ("Praxair") filed suit against the Company in the Circuit Court of Mobile County, Alabama, alleging tortious interference with business or contractual relations with respect to Praxair's right of first refusal agreement with the majority shareholders of National Welders in connection with the Company's formation of a joint venture with National Welders. In June 1998, Praxair filed a motion to dismiss its own action in Alabama and commenced another action in the

F-34

Superior Court of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, alleging substantially the same tortious interference by the Company. The North Carolina action also alleged breach of contract against National Welders and certain shareholders of National Welders and unfair trade practices and conspiracy against all the defendants. In April 2002, the Company and Praxair entered into an agreement to settle the litigation in order to avoid the time and expense of a lengthy trial. Each party denied any wrongdoing or liability and Praxair agreed to an early termination of the right of first refusal. As a result of the settlement, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company recorded a charge to earnings, net of previously established reserves related to the litigation, of $8.5 million. In fiscal 2001, the Company recorded a charge of $6.9 million for costs associated with defending the Praxair lawsuit.

        In fiscal 1997, the Company announced it was the victim of a fraudulent breach of contract by a third-party supplier of refrigerant gases and recorded a special charge related to product losses and costs associated with the Company's efforts to investigate the fraud and pursue recoveries. In March 2001, the Company reached a final settlement with its insurance carriers resulting in insurance recoveries of $4 million. The insurance settlement, net of associated legal expenses, was reflected in special charge recoveries in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

        In fiscal 2000, the Company recorded a $7.5 million charge representing an estimate of the overall costs associated with the defense and settlement of certain class action lawsuits pertaining to hazardous material charges paid to the Company by customers. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, a settlement agreement and approving court orders covering all such class actions against the Company became final, and the Company reversed $1.1 million of the previously accrued defense and settlement costs.

        The Company is involved in various legal and regulatory proceedings that have arisen in the ordinary course of its business and have not been fully adjudicated. These actions, when ultimately concluded and determined, will not, in the opinion of management, have a material adverse effect upon the Company's consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

(b)    Insurance Coverage

        The Company has established insurance programs to cover workers' compensation, business automobile, general and products liability. These programs have self-insured retention of $500 thousand per occurrence and an aggregate limit of $1.5 million for claims in excess of $500 thousand. The Company believes its insurance reserves are adequate. The Company accrues estimated losses using actuarial models and assumptions based on historical loss experience.

        The nature of the Company's business may subject it to product and general liability lawsuits. To the extent that the Company is subject to claims that exceed its liability insurance coverage of $100 million, such suits could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

(c)    Supply Agreements

        In connection with the Air Products acquisition, the Company entered into a 15-year supply agreement under which Air Products will supply at least 35% of the Company's bulk liquid nitrogen, oxygen and argon requirements. Additionally, the Company has commitments to purchase helium under the terms of the supply agreement. Based on fiscal 2002 results, the Air Products supply agreement represents approximately $40 million in annual liquid bulk gas purchases. In addition, the Company is a party to other long-term supply agreements primarily for the purchase of liquid carbon dioxide, representing approximately $14 million, or 24% of the Company's annual carbon dioxide requirements.

F-35

(22) SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

        Cash paid for interest expense and income taxes was as follows:

	Years Ended March 31,
	2002		2001		2000
	(In thousands)
Interest	$	42,165	$	65,167	$	57,934
Income taxes (net of refunds)		21,004		8,109		16,269

        Significant non-cash investing and financing transactions were as follows:

		Years Ended March 31,
		2002		2001		2000
		(In thousands)
Acquisition related transactions:
	Debt assumed	$	1,466	$	—	$	561
	Liabilities assumed		8,451		536		7,762
	Debt issued		—		—		1,399

(23) SUMMARY BY BUSINESS SEGMENT

        The Company aggregates its operations, based on products and services, into two reportable segments, Distribution and Gas Operations. The Distribution segment accounts for approximately 90% of consolidated sales. The segment's principal products and services are packaged and small bulk gases, gas cylinder and welding equipment rental and hardgoods. Gas sales include industrial, medical and specialty gases such as: nitrogen, oxygen, argon, helium, acetylene, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, hydrogen, welding gases, ultra high purity grades and special application blends. Rent is derived from gas cylinders, cryogenic liquid containers, bulk storage tanks and through the rental of welding equipment. Hardgoods consist of welding supplies and equipment, safety products, and industrial tools and supplies.

        The Gas Operations segment produces and distributes certain gas products, principally dry ice, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and specialty gases. The Company also operates two air separation plants that produce oxygen, nitrogen and argon which are sold to on-site customers and to the Distribution segment.

        The Company's operations are principally in the United States. The Company's customer base is diverse and sales are not dependent on a single or small group of customers.

        The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Note 1). Additionally, Corporate operating expenses are allocated to each segment pro rata based on sales dollars; Corporate assets have been allocated to the Distribution segment; intercompany sales are recorded on the same basis as sales to third parties; and intercompany transactions are eliminated in consolidation. As a result of adopting SFAS 142 effective April 1, 2001, the financial results for the year ended March 31, 2002 do not reflect goodwill amortization expense (see Note 1). See Note 7 for a reconciliation of prior period financial results as reported to financial results adjusted to exclude goodwill amortization expense. See Note 2 for the impact of acquisitions and divestitures on the operating results of each segment. Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior periods segment disclosures to conform to the current presentation.

        Management utilizes more than one measurement and multiple views of data to measure segment performance and to allocate resources to the segments. However, the dominant measurements are consistent with the Company's consolidated financial statements and, accordingly, are reported on the same basis herein. Management evaluates the performance of its segments primarily based on sales,

F-36

operating income, EBITDA (operating income plus equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates, depreciation and amortization) and overall economic returns.

		Distribution			Gas Operations			Combined
		(In thousands)
Fiscal 2002
Gas and rent		$	707,435		$	139,524		$	846,959
Hardgoods			786,832			2,256			789,088
	Total net sales		1,494,267			141,780			1,636,047
Intersegment sales			—			32,227			32,227
Gross profit			724,173			93,121			817,294
Gross profit margin			48.5	%		65.7	%		50.0	%
Depreciation and amortization expense			61,275			11,670			72,945
Operating income			103,430			21,603			125,033
Equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			2,878			957			3,835
Assets			1,520,492			196,565			1,717,057
Investment in equity method investees			58,579			6,047			64,626
Capital expenditures			52,414			5,883			58,297
Fiscal 2001
Gas and rent		$	647,525		$	138,383		$	785,908
Hardgoods			839,897			3,096			842,993
	Total net sales		1,487,422			141,479			1,628,901
Intersegment sales			—			31,805			31,805
Gross profit			689,999			91,702			781,701
Gross profit margin			46.4	%		64.8	%		48.0	%
Depreciation and amortization expense			72,552			14,202			86,754
Operating income, excluding special (charges) recoveries			92,186			19,406			111,592
Special (charges) recoveries, net			(6,279	)		2,636			(3,643	)
Operating income			85,907			22,042			107,949
Equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			1,386			874			2,260
Assets			1,406,928			174,362			1,581,290
Investment in equity method investees			56,671			6,591			63,262
Capital expenditures			56,228			9,682			65,910
Fiscal 2000
Gas and rent		$	592,449		$	128,703		$	721,152
Hardgoods			817,500			3,682			821,182
	Total net sales		1,409,949			132,385			1,542,334
Intersegment sales			—			18,253			18,253
Gross profit			649,827			75,910			725,737
Gross profit margin			46.1	%		57.3	%		47.1	%
Depreciation and amortization expense			76,483			12,825			89,308
Operating income, excluding special (charges) recoveries			94,671			9,231			103,902
Special (charges) recoveries, net			577			2,252			2,829
Operating income			95,248			11,483			106,731
Equity earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			1,658			1,733			3,391
Assets			1,512,666			226,665			1,739,331
Investment in equity method investees			57,339			15,620			72,959
Capital expenditures			56,361			8,850			65,211

F-37

(24) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

        This table summarizes the unaudited results of operations for each quarter of fiscal 2002 and 2001:

	First			Second		Third		Fourth
	(In thousands, except per share amounts)
2002
Net sales	$	415,675		$	411,982	$	392,433	$	415,957
Operating income		32,784			34,839		31,194		26,216
Net earnings		(45,549	)		14,553		11,845		8,736
Basic earnings per share(a),(b)	$	(.68	)	$	...21	$	...17	$	...13
Diluted earnings per share(a),(b)	$	(.67	)	$	.21	$	.17	$	.12
2001
Net sales	$	408,998		$	410,097	$	394,970	$	414,836
Operating income		31,043			33,046		26,242		17,618
Net earnings		9,816			10,403		6,676		1,328
Basic earnings per share(a),(c)	$	...15		$	...16	$	...10	$	...02
Diluted earnings per share (a),(c)	$	.15		$	.16	$	.10	$	.02

(a)

Earnings per share calculations for each of the quarters are based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding in each period. Therefore, the sum of the quarters does not necessarily equal the full year earnings per share.

(b)

As discussed in the Notes to the Company's consolidated financial statements, net earnings for fiscal 2002 include: (1) in the first quarter, a non-cash charge of $59 million, or $.86 per diluted share, as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle for the write-down of goodwill to its fair value; and (2) in the fourth quarter, a litigation charge of $5.7 million after-tax, or $.08 per diluted share, related to the Praxair litigation settlement. In accordance with the Company's adoption of SFAS 142 on April 1, 2002, fiscal 2002 financial information excludes goodwill amortization (see Note 7).

(c)

As discussed in the Notes to the Company's consolidated financial statements, net earnings for fiscal 2001 include the following charges in the fourth quarter: (1) net special charges of $2.3 million after tax, or $.03 per diluted share; (2) litigation charges, net of recoveries, of $3.4 or $.06 per diluted share; and (3) asset impairments associated with two equity affiliates of $700 thousand after tax, or $.01 per diluted share.

(25) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS

        As described in Note 9, on July 30, 2001, the Company refinanced its revolving credit facilities and issued $225 million of senior subordinated notes (the "Notes"). The obligations of the Company under the Notes are guaranteed by the Company's domestic subsidiaries that guarantee the Company's revolving credit facilities (the "Guarantors"). The Company's joint venture operations, foreign holdings and bankruptcy remote special purpose entity (the "Non-guarantors") are not guarantors of the Notes. The guarantees are made on a joint and several basis. The claims of creditors of Non-guarantor subsidiaries have priority over the rights of the Company to receive dividends or distributions from such subsidiaries. Presented below is condensed consolidating financial information for the Company, the Guarantors and the Non-guarantors as of March 31, 2002 and March 31, 2001 and for the years ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000. On August 31, 2001, two Non-guarantor entities were merged into the parent. These entities were holding companies through which the Company managed its operations in Poland and Thailand. The operations in Poland and Thailand were divested in fiscal 2000. The net assets of the two Non-guarantor entities in the amount of $42.7 million were transferred to the parent.

F-38

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

March 31, 2002

	Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries			Consolidated
	(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Trade receivables, net	$	—		$	25,088		$	63,546		$	—		$	88,634
Intercompany receivable/(payable)		—			(6,174	)		6,174			—			—
Inventories, net		—			151,334			2,711			—			154,045
Deferred income tax asset, net		7,850			5,360			—			—			13,210
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		31,137			16,321			196			—			47,654
Total current assets		38,987			191,929			72,627			—			303,543
Plant and equipment, net		15,924			856,978			20,113			—			893,015
Goodwill		—			396,242			10,306			—			406,548
Other intangible assets, net		997			24,721			—			—			25,718
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates		58,578			6,048			—			—			64,626
Investments in subsidiaries		1,314,314			—			—			(1,314,314	)		—
Intercompany receivable/(payable)		(141,785	)		168,176			(26,391	)		—			—
Other non-current assets		19,765			2,921			921			—			23,607
Total assets	$	1,306,780		$	1,647,015		$	77,576		$	(1,314,314	)	$	1,717,057
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable, trade	$	5,047		$	74,968		$	2,470		$	—		$	82,485
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		60,385			75,582			423			—			136,390
Current portion of long-term debt		—			2,375			81			—			2,456
Total current liabilities		65,432			152,925			2,974			—			221,331
Long-term debt, excluding current portion		732,544			9,828			21,752			—			764,124
Deferred income tax liability, net		951			192,004			5,218			—			198,173
Other non-current liabilities		4,767			25,268			308			—			30,343
Commitments and contingencies		—			—			—			—			—
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, no par value		—			—			—			—			—
Common stock, par value $.01 per share		752			—			—			—			752
Capital in excess of par value		198,500			907,765			8,224			(915,989	)		198,500
Retained earnings		345,181			359,442			40,037			(399,479	)		345,181
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(4,401	)		(217	)		(937	)		1,154			(4,401	)
Treasury stock		(4,289	)		—			—			—			(4,289	)
Employee benefits trust		(32,657	)		—			—			—			(32,657	)
Total stockholders' equity		503,086			1,266,990			47,324			(1,314,314	)		503,086
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	1,306,780		$	1,647,015		$	77,576		$	(1,314,314	)	$	1,717,057

F-39

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet

March 31, 2001

	Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries			Consolidated
	(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current Assets:
Trade receivables, net	$	—		$	101,326		$	41,803		$	—		$	143,129
Intercompany receivable/(payable)		170			(4,428	)		4,258			—			—
Inventories, net		—			151,402			3,622			—			155,024
Deferred income tax asset, net		6,297			3,846			—			—			10,143
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		10,165			14,463			921			—			25,549
Total current assets		16,632			266,609			50,604			—			333,845
Plant and equipment, net		6,851			677,480			20,315			—			704,646
Goodwill		—			429,942			10,115			—			440,057
Other intangible assets, net		1,122			28,179			367			—			29,668
Investments in unconsolidated affiliates		56,656			6,591			15			—			63,262
Investments in subsidiaries		1,197,856			—			—			(1,197,856	)		—
Intercompany receivable/(payable)		(107,248	)		99,650			7,598			—			—
Other non-current assets		5,294			3,814			704			—			9,812
Total assets	$	1,177,163		$	1,512,265		$	89,718		$	(1,197,856	)	$	1,581,290
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable, trade	$	3,339		$	71,045		$	1,953		$	—		$	76,337
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		40,920			88,990			963			—			130,873
Current portion of long-term debt		50,000			22,863			82			—			72,945
Total current liabilities		94,259			182,898			2,998			—			280,155
Long-term debt, excluding current portion		585,465			10,354			24,845			—			620,664
Deferred income tax liability, net		194			158,230			2,752			—			161,176
Other non-current liabilities		396			21,999			51			—			22,446
Commitments and contingencies		—			—			—			—			—
Stockholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, no par value		—			—			—			—			—
Common stock, par value $.01 per share		744			—			—			—			744
Capital in excess of par value		188,629			775,625			33,211			(808,836	)		188,629
Retained earnings		355,596			363,461			26,712			(390,173	)		355,596
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(1,153	)		(302	)		(851	)		1,153			(1,153	)
Treasury stock		(3,982	)		—			—			—			(3,982	)
Employee benefits trust		(42,985	)		—			—			—			(42,985	)
Total stockholders' equity		496,849			1,138,784			59,072			(1,197,856	)		496,849
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	1,177,163		$	1,512,265		$	89,718		$	(1,197,856	)	$	1,581,290

F-40

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings

Year Ended

March 31, 2002

		Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries			Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net sales		$	—		$	1,616,178		$	19,869		$	—		$	1,636,047
Costs and Expenses:
Costs of products sold (excluding depreciation)			—			813,485			5,268			—			818,753
Selling, distribution and administrative expenses			57,631			541,201			20,484			—			619,316
Depreciation			3,419			59,317			2,049			—			64,785
Amortization			161			7,999			—			—			8,160
	Operating Income (Loss)		(61,211	)		194,176			(7,932	)		—			125,033
Interest (expense) income, net			(53,788	)		6,656			119			—			(47,013	)
(Discount) gain on securitization of trade receivables			—			(59,840	)		54,994			—			(4,846	)
Other income (expense), net			54,099			(54,621	)		1,904			—			1,382
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			2,861			974			—			—			3,835
Earnings (loss) before taxes and a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			(58,039	)		87,345			49,085			—			78,391
Income tax benefit (expense)			20,313			(32,363	)		(17,756	)		—			(29,806	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries			27,311			—			—			(27,311	)		—
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			—			(59,000	)		—			—			(59,000	)
	Net Earnings (Loss)	$	(10,415	)	$	(4,018	)	$	31,329		$	(27,311	)	$	(10,415	)

F-41

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings

Year Ended

March 31, 2001

		Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries			Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net sales		$	—		$	1,606,965		$	21,936		$	—		$	1,628,901
Costs and Expenses:
Costs of products sold (excluding depreciation)			—			841,403			5,797			—			847,200
Selling, distribution and administrative expenses			37,124			535,573			10,658			—			583,355
Depreciation			2,637			58,222			2,079			—			62,938
Amortization			249			23,175			392			—			23,816
Special Charge (Recoveries)			—			3,643			—			—			3,643
	Operating Income (Loss)		(40,010	)		144,949			3,010			—			107,949
Interest (expense) income, net			(63,555	)		2,070			1,278			—			(60,207	)
(Discount) gain on securitization of trade receivables			—			(10,143	)		8,840			—			(1,303	)
Other income (expense), net			59,576			(59,366	)		32			—			242
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			1,178			2,006			(924	)		—			2,260
Earnings (loss) before income taxes			(42,811	)		79,516			12,236			—			48,941
Income tax benefit (expense)			14,983			(30,700	)		(5,001	)		—			(20,718	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries			56,051			—			—			(56,051	)		—
	Net Earnings (Loss)	$	28,223		$	48,816		$	7,235		$	(56,051	)	$	28,223

F-42

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings

Year Ended

March 31, 2000

		Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries			Consolidated
		(In thousands)
Net sales		$	—		$	1,508,118		$	34,216		$	—		$	1,542,334
Costs and Expenses:
Costs of products sold (excluding depreciation)			—			805,264			11,333			—			816,597
Selling, distribution and administrative expenses			27,240			489,488			15,799			—			532,527
Depreciation			2,786			57,656			3,193			—			63,635
Amortization			362			24,598			713			—			25,673
Special Charge (Recoveries)			—			(2,829	)		—			—			(2,829	)
	Operating Income (Loss)		(30,388	)		133,941			3,178			—			106,731
Interest (expense) income, net			(59,356	)		2,153			(357	)		—			(57,560	)
Other income (expense), net			57,440			(58,115	)		18,537			—			17,862
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates			1,447			2,076			(132	)		—			3,391
Earnings (loss) before taxes and a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			(30,857	)		80,055			21,226			—			70,424
Income tax benefit (expense)			10,800			(34,950	)		(7,401	)		—			(31,551	)
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries			58,340			—			—			(58,340	)		—
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle			—			(590	)		—			—			(590	)
	Net Earnings	$	38,283		$	44,515		$	13,825		$	(58,340	)	$	38,283

F-43

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

Year Ended

March 31, 2002

	Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	(44,830	)	$	282,515		$	11,696		$	—	$	249,381
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures		(9,901	)		(46,554	)		(1,842	)		—		(58,297	)
Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment		—			3,216			—			—		3,216
Proceeds from divestiture		—			10,200			—			—		10,200
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired		—			(252,538	)		—			—		(252,538	)
Business acquisitions, holdbacks and other settlements		—			(5,018	)		—			—		(5,018	)
Dividends and fees from unconsolidated affiliates		954			1,629			—			—		2,583
Other, net		16,329			(11,098	)		(78	)		—		5,153
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		7,382			(300,163	)		(1,920	)		—		(294,701	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from borrowings		677,605			—			2,539			—		680,144
Repayment of debt		(580,527	)		(26,619	)		(5,633	)		—		(612,779	)
Financing costs		(12,461	)		—			—			—		(12,461	)
Exercise of stock options		7,442			—			—			—		7,442
Cash overdraft		—			(17,026	)		—			—		(17,026	)
Inter-company		(54,611	)		61,293			(6,682	)		—		—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		37,448			17,648			(9,776	)		—		45,320
CHANGE IN CASH	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—
Cash—Beginning of year		—			—			—			—		—
Cash—End of year	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—

F-44

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

Year Ended

March 31, 2001

	Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	(24,647	)	$	255,815		$	(32,163	)	$	—	$	199,005
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures		(484	)		(62,221	)		(3,205	)		—		(65,910	)
Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment		—			2,854			—			—		2,854
Proceeds from divestiture		—			42,123			7,506			—		49,629
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired		—			(1,006	)		—			—		(1,006	)
Business acquisitions, holdback and other settlements		—			(4,752	)		—			—		(4,752	)
Dividends and fees from unconsolidated affiliates		947			2,721			—			—		3,668
Other, net		6,333			(4,734	)		3,066			—		4,665
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		6,796			(25,015	)		7,367			—		(10,852	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from borrowings		157,238			—			—			—		157,238
Repayment of debt		(321,238	)		(15,044	)		(4,840	)		—		(341,122	)
Purchase of treasury stock		(11,214	)		—			—			—		(11,214	)
Exercise of stock options		1,460			—			—			—		1,460
Cash overdraft		—			5,485			—			—		5,485
Inter-company		191,605			(221,241	)		29,636			—		—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		17,851			(230,800	)		24,796			—		(188,153	)
CHANGE IN CASH	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—
Cash—Beginning of year		—			—			—			—		—
Cash—End of year	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—

F-45

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows

Year Ended

March 31, 2000

	Parent			Guarantors			Non- Guarantors			Elimination Entries		Consolidated
	(In thousands)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	$	(13,236	)	$	107,318		$	6,010		$	—	$	100,092
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures		(1,801	)		(58,572	)		(4,838	)		—		(65,211	)
Proceeds from sale of plant and equipment		—			36,982			472			—		37,454
Proceeds from divestitures		12,150			9,408			34,038			—		55,596
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired		—			(99,204	)		—			—		(99,204	)
Business acquisitions, holdback settlement		—			(2,289	)		—			—		(2,289	)
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates		—			(30	)		—			—		(30	)
Dividends and fees from unconsolidated affiliates		984			2,989			—			—		3,973
Other, net		7,291			(639	)		(2,402	)		—		4,250
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities		18,624			(111,355	)		27,270			—		(65,461	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from borrowings		166,241			—			2,328			—		168,569
Repayment of debt		(139,289	)		(20,349	)		—			—		(159,638	)
Purchase of treasury stock		(47,125	)		—			—			—		(47,125	)
Exercise of stock options		1,562			—			—			—		1,562
Cash overdraft		—			2,001			—			—		2,001
Inter-company		13,223			22,385			(35,608	)		—		—
Net cash used in financing activities		(5,388	)		4,037			(33,280	)		—		(34,631	)
CHANGE IN CASH	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—
Cash—Beginning of year		—			—			—			—		—
Cash—End of year	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—	$	—

F-46

SCHEDULE II

AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS

For the Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000

(In thousands of dollars)

	Column A		Column B		Column C			Column D			Column E
			Additions
Description	Balance at Beginning of Period		Charged to Costs and Expenses		Charged (Credited) to Other Accounts			Deductions			Balance at End of Period
2002
Accounts receivable—allowances for doubtful accounts	$	7,402	$	9,537	$	1,371	(1)	$	(10,134	)(2)	$	8,176
Insurance reserves		15,596		48,008		—			(42,710	)(3)		20,894
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance		4,263		1,713		—			—			5,976
Litigation reserve		8,007		8,697		—			(5,412	)		11,292
2001
Accounts receivable—allowances for doubtful accounts	$	6,194	$	8,730	$	820	(1)	$	(8,342	)(2)	$	7,402
Insurance reserves		11,475		40,991		577			(37,447	)(3)		15,596
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance		1,840		2,423		—			—			4,263
Litigation reserve		7,500		9,160		—			(8,653	)		8,007
2000
Accounts receivable—allowances for doubtful accounts	$	6,092	$	6,303	$	1,078	(1)	$	(7,279	)(2)	$	6,194
Insurance reserves		9,584		44,492		—			(42,601	)(3)		11,475
Deferred tax asset valuation allowance		1,672		168		—			—			1,840
Litigation reserve		—		7,500		—			—			7,500

(1)

Includes collections on accounts previously written-off and allowances for doubtful accounts of businesses acquired less the allowance for doubtful accounts of businesses sold.

(2)

Write-off of uncollectible accounts.

(3)

Payments of insurance premiums and claims.

F-47

QuickLinks

AIRGAS, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE COMPANY'S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.

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

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.

PART IV

ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

SIGNATURES
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
STATEMENT OF MANAGEMENT'S FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet March 31, 2002
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet March 31, 2001
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings Year Ended March 31, 2002
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings Year Ended March 31, 2001
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Earnings Year Ended March 31, 2000
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended March 31, 2002
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended March 31, 2001
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended March 31, 2000
SCHEDULE II
AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS For the Years Ended March 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 (In thousands of dollars)

EX-10.14

EXHIBIT 10.14


                                                                FISCAL YEAR 2003
                                                                EXECUTIVE BONUS
                                                                PLAN


                                                                Airgas, Inc.


                                                                April 2002








PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT



================================================================================
The purpose of this document is to allow bonus eligible employees at Airgas,
Inc. to understand the mechanics, measures, and other design features of the
Fiscal Year 2003 Executive Bonus Plan, and serve as a guide in the
implementation and administration of the plan. Included are payout schedules,
specific definitions and terminology, and basic plan governance.
















- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


AIRGAS, INC. FISCAL YEAR 2003 EXECUTIVE BONUS PLAN



================================================================================

PURPOSE OF THE PLAN
The purpose of the Airgas, Inc. Fiscal Year 2003 Executive Bonus Plan (the
"Plan") is to align Management's efforts with the strategic goals of the Company
through competitive annual incentive opportunities. This plan will be effective
from April 1, 2002 to March 31, 2003 (the "Plan Year").

ELIGIBILITY
Participation in the plan is determined by the function manager
(e.g., CFO, CIO, Senior Vice President, Legal, and Corporate Development).

TARGET AWARDS
Participants in the Executive Bonus Plan will be eligible for an annual cash
incentive award (the "Award") based on the achievement of predetermined goals.
An annual incentive or bonus target is generally determined based on the
participant's position in the organization, and can vary according to the
judgement of management.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT
Final Award payments are determined by adjusting the target award upward or
downward based on achievement relative to a variety of performance measures,
including: corporate financial goals, individual accountabilities, Operating
Company and Area performance metrics. Depending upon an individual's position
and responsibilities, these various performance measures, assessed based on
different weightings, will determine the Award. Participants at the corporate
level will not be measured on the financial performance of any operating
company. There will be four different types of bonus plans: Corporate, Project
One, Operating Company Management and Area Managers. Each of these plans is
described below.

TOTAL AIRGAS PERFORMANCE
Assessment of Total Airgas performance is based on achievement relative to
EARNING PER SHARE (EPS) AND RETURN ON CAPITAL (ROC). The Management Committee
chose these measures since generating profitable growth is a critical factor in
driving appreciation in stock price and it is critical for Airgas to raise its
return on investment. Performance against these measures will be determined
based on achievement relative to predetermined targets for the Plan Year, as set
forth by the Management Committee. Earnings per share and Return on Capital, for
the purposes of the Plan, are defined below:

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Net Profit After Taxes
        EPS
                     Weighted Average Shares Outstanding During the year

                   *Net profit is after bonus accruals and excludes any
                   large, non-recurring, one-time gains or charges at the
                         discretion of the Management Committee.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       1

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        ROC       EBITDA - (80% x Depreciation Expense) - Unleveraged Cash Taxes

                         Average Capital Outstanding During the Year

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
Individual performance is measured based on achievement relative to at least one
"line-of-sight" goal in the Plan Year. Prior to each Plan Year, each participant
will meet with his/her manager to develop individual performance goals that are
quantifiable where possible and are aligned to the Company goals and key
financial performance metrics. In addition, these goals should represent a
"stretch", and are attainable, yet challenging.

OPERATING COMPANY METRICS
Assessment of operating company performance is based on achievement relative to
financial performance goals set for the operating company in which the
individual works. For the upcoming Plan Year, financial performance at the
operating company level will be based on three measures with Return on Average
Capital Employed used only for Operating Company Management:

o    Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA);
o    Sales; and
o    Return on Average Capital Employed (RACE).

Performance against these measures will be determined based on achievement
relative to predetermined targets for the Plan Year, as set forth by the
Management Committee.

AREA PERFORMANCE METRICS
The term "Area" can be defined as either a specific geographic area (group of
branches or sales territory) or functional area. For the upcoming Plan Year,
financial performance at the Area level will be based on two measures:

o    Earning Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA);
     and

o    Sales

We recognize that EBITDA may not be an appropriate measure for Area performance
in all cases. Where necessary, Operating company management will use a measure
that is closely aligned with EBITDA.

Performance against these measures will be determined based on achievement
relative to predetermined targets for the Plan Year, as set forth by the
Management Committee.


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       2



WEIGHTING OF PERFORMANCE GOALS

CORPORATE EMPLOYEES
For corporate employees, Award payments will be awarded based on the relative
achievement of these goals carrying the following weights:



       -----------------------------------------------------
                Total Airgas        Individual Performance
       -----------------------------------------------------
                    75%                      25%
                              
       -----------------------------------------------------
            EPS            ROC
       -----------------------------------------------------
            50%            25%
       -----------------------------------------------------



PROJECT ONE
For Project One team members, Award payments will be awarded based
on the relative achievement of these goals carrying the following weights:




       -----------------------------------------------------
               Total Airgas         Individual Performance
       -----------------------------------------------------
                    50%                      50%
                              
       -----------------------------------------------------
            EPS            ROC
       -----------------------------------------------------
            30%            20%
       -----------------------------------------------------



OPERATING COMPANY MANAGEMENT
For operating company management, Award payments will be awarded based on the
relative achievement of these goals carrying the following weights:



     ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Total Airgas             Operating Company Performance    Individual Performance
              25%                              60%                          15%
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       EPS             ROC        Sales      EBITDA       RACE
                                                    
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       15%             10%         15%         25%         20%
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       3


AREA MANAGERS
For Area managers within the operating companies, Award payments will be awarded
based on the relative achievement of these goals carrying the following weights:



     --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Operating Company
        Area Performance                Performance           Individual Performance
     --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              50%                           25%                         25%
     --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Sales       EBITDA             Sales     EBITDA        Metric 1      Metric 2
                                                             
     --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        20%           30%              10%         15%         12.5%         12.5%
     --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


DETERMINING INCENTIVE PAYOUTS
Achievement relative to these specific goals determines the extent to which a
participant receives an Award. For quantitative goals, such as corporate,
operating company and Area financial measures, performance is assessed relative
to threshold, target, and maximum levels. Prior to the Plan Year, the Management
Committee will approve tables that identify corresponding incentive payout
levels related to threshold, target, and maximum performance levels for
quantitative goals. Levels of performance between these levels will be
interpolated as appropriate (see graphs below).

For individual accountabilities a maximum achievement percentage for any single
goal or group of goals is 100%, and anything short of full achievement of such
goals will be given an achievement percentage between 0% and 100%. Prior to the
Plan Year, the participant and his or her manager will agree on the performance
framework.

PAY FOR PERFORMANCE RELATIONSHIP
The following graphs indicate the relationship between the achievement of a
particular financial goal and the payout for that goal associated with that
level of achievement. The weighting of these financial goals in determining an
overall incentive payout depends on the participant's position and level of
responsibility.



              EPS
ACHIEVEMENT          PAYOUT %
- ------------------------------
                  
  ($0.10)               50%
  ($0.09)               50%
  ($0.08)               60%
  ($0.07)               60%
  ($0.06)               70%
  ($0.05)               70%
  ($0.04)               80%
  ($0.03)               80%                            [GRAPH]
  ($0.02)               90%
  ($0.01)               90%
- ------------------------------
   $0.00               100%
- ------------------------------
   $0.01               100%
   $0.02               110%
   $0.03               110%
   $0.04               115%
   $0.05               115%
   $0.06               120%
   $0.07               120%
   $0.08               125%
   $0.09               125%
   $0.10               130%



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       4





                ROC
ACHIEVEMENT             PAYOUT %
- ----------------------------------
                     
   -0.8%                  50%
   -0.7%                  50%
   -0.6%                  70%
   -0.5%                  70%
   -0.4%                  90%
   -0.3%                  90%
- ----------------------------------                    [GRAPH]
   -0.2%                 100%
   -0.1%                 100%
    0.0%                 100%
    0.1%                 100%
    0.2%                 100%
- ----------------------------------
    0.3%                 110%
    0.4%                 110%
    0.5%                 120%
    0.6%                 120%
    0.7%                 130%
    0.8%                 130%




               RACE
ACHIEVEMENT          PAYOUT %
- --------------------------------
                  
    90%                 20%
    91%                 30%
    92%                 40%
    93%                 50%
    94%                 60%
    95%                 70%
    96%                 80%
    97%                 90%
- --------------------------------                      [GRAPH]
    98%                100%
    99%                100%
   100%                100%
   101%                100%
   102%                100%
- --------------------------------
   103%                110%
   104%                120%
   105%                130%
   106%                140%
   107%                150%



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       5





              EBITDA
ACHIEVEMENT             PAYOUT %
- ----------------------------------
                     
    90%                    30%
    91%                    40%
    92%                    50%
    93%                    60%
    94%                    70%
    95%                    80%
    96%                    90%
    97%                    90%
    98%                    95%
    99%                    95%
- --------------------------------
   100%                   100%                        [GRAPH]
- --------------------------------
   101%                   105%
   102%                   110%
   103%                   115%
   104%                   120%
   105%                   130%
   106%                   140%
   107%                   150%





               SALES
ACHIEVEMENT             PAYOUT %
- --------------------------------
                     
    97%                    25%
    98%                    50%
    99%                    75%
- --------------------------------
   100%                   100%                        [GRAPH]
- --------------------------------
   101%                   110%
   102%                   120%
   103%                   130%
   104%                   140%
   105%                   150%
- --------------------------------



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       6


EXAMPLES


1.Corporate

This employee earns $50,000 and has a target percentage of 10% of her base
salary or $5,000. At the end of the Plan year, this example assumes the
following performance results:

     o    EPS was .01 above Plan target, which means a payout of 100%;
     o    ROC was at 0.1% above target, leading to a payout of 100%;
     o    This employee met 80% of individual goals



- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERFORMANCE     TARGET    MULTIPLIED  PERFORMANCE              MEASURE     MULTIPLIED   ACTUAL
MEASURE          BONUS       BY        WEIGHTING    EQUALS      TARGET         BY       RESULTS   EQUALS     PAYOUT
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                  
EPS              $5,000       X           50%          =        $2,500         X         100%        =       $2,500
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROC              $5,000       X           25%          =        $1,250         X         100%        =       $1,250
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual       $5,000       X           25%          =        $1,250         X          80%        =       $1,000
Performance
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                   100%                   $5,000                                       $4,750
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


2. Project One

This employee earns $50,000 and has a target percentage of 10% of her base
salary or $5,000. At the end of the Plan year, this example assumes the
following performance results:

     o    EPS was .01 above Plan target, which means a payout of 100%;
     o    ROC was at 0.1% above target, leading to a payout of 100%;
     o    This employee met 80% of individual goals



- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERFORMANCE       TARGET    MULTIPLIED  PERFORMANCE               MEASURE     MULTIPLIED    ACTUAL
MEASURE            BONUS        BY       WEIGHTING     EQUALS      TARGET         BY        RESULTS    EQUALS    PAYOUT
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                      
EPS               $5,000        X           30%          =         $1,500          X          100%       =       $1,500
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROC               $5,000        X           20%          =         $1,000          X          100%       =       $1,000
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual        $5,000        X           50%          =         $2,500          X          80%        =       $2,000
Performance
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                      100%                   $5,000                                        $4,500
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


3.  Operating Company Management

This employee earns $50,000 and has a target percentage of 10% of her base
salary or $5,000. At the end of the Plan year, this example assumes the
following performance results:

     o    EPS was .01 above Plan target, which means a payout of 100%;
     o    ROC was at 0.1% above target, leading to a payout of 100%;
     o    EBITDA at the operating company was 100% of target, leading to a
          payout of 100%;
     o    Sales at Operating company were 101% of target, leading to a payout of
          110%;
     o    RACE at Operating company was 101% of target, leading to a payout of
          100%;
     o    Employee met 80% of individual performance goals.


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       7




- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance          Target    Multiplied   Performance   Equals  Measure  Multiplied   Actual
Measure               Bonus        By        Weighting            Target       By       Results    Equals     Payout
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                   
Total Airgas
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    EPS         $5,000        X            15%         =      $750        X         100%        =         $750
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    ROC         $5,000        X            10%         =      $500        X         100%        =         $500
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Company
Performance
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    EBITDA      $5,000        X            25%         =      $1250       X         100%        =        $1250
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    Sales       $5,000        X            15%         =      $750        X         110%        =         $825
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    RACE        $5,000        X            20%         =     $1,000       X         100%        =        $1000
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual           $5,000        X            15%         =      $750        X          80%        =         $600
Performance
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                         100%               $5,000                                      $4,925
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




3.  Area Managers - Operating Company

This employee earns $50,000 and has a target percentage of 10% of her base
salary or $5,000. At the end of the Plan year, this example assumes the
following performance results:

     o    EBITDA at the Area level was 100% of target, leading to a payout of
          100%;
     o    Sales at the Area level was 101% of target, leading to a payout of
          110%;
     o    EBITDA at the Operating company was 101% of target, leading to a
          payout of 105%;
     o    Sales at the Operating company were 102% of target, yielding a 120%
          payout;
     o    This employee on individual performance met 60% of Metric 1 and 80% of
          Metric 2.


To calculate her actual bonus, we multiply each measure target dollar amount by
actual performance results:



- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance Measure    Bonus    Multiplied   Performance             Measure    Multiplied   Actual
                       Target       By        Weighting    Equals    Target         By       Results   Equals     Payout
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                      
Area Performance
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    EBITDA        $5,000       X            30%         =       $1,500         X         100%       =        $1,500
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    Sales         $5,000       X            20%         =       $1,000         X         110%       =        $1,100
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating Company
Performance
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    EBITDA        $5,000       X            15%         =        $750          X         105%       =       $787.50
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    -    Sales         $5,000       X            10%         =        $500          X         120%       =         $600
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Individual
Performance
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Metric 1       $5,000       X           12.5%                 $625          X          60%                 $375
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Metric 2       $5,000       X           12.5%        =        $625          X          80%       =         $500
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals                                          100%                 $5,000                                     $4,862.50
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       8


FUNDING
The Plan will be self-funding, as corporate profitability targets will be
established net of target Award payments under the Plan. Therefore, achievement
of corporate profitability targets will ensure that the Plan has funded itself.

EXECUTIVE BONUS PLAN PAYMENT
At the end of the Plan Year, after all financial results have been finalized,
including corporate and operating performance, the actual award payment will be
determined. The Award will be paid in cash no later than 75 days following the
end of the fiscal year.

ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLAN
The Management Committee of Airgas, Inc. shall have full power to administer and
interpret the Plan and, in its sole discretion, may establish or amend rules of
general application for the administration of the plan. The Executive Committee
may amend or terminate the Plan at any time.

PARTIAL YEAR ELIGIBILITY
Employees who are eligible for the Plan for a portion of the year will receive a
prorated Award based on the base salary earned while they are eligible for the
Plan.

o    New hires

     -    New employees will immediately be eligible for the Plan.

     -    Base salary will be accumulated from the date of hire to the end of
          the Plan Year, unless eligibility ceases prior to that date.
          Transfers--For employees who transfer from one job or employee status
          to another, eligibility will depend on their award eligibility before
          and after transferring.

     -    If an employee transfers from a position that is not bonus eligible to
          a position that is eligible for an Award under the Plan, the annual
          incentive award will be prorated based on the time in the bonus
          eligible position. All calculations are done using year-end financial
          data.

     -    If an employee transfers from a position that is eligible for an Award
          under the Plan to a position that is not bonus eligible, the annual
          incentive award will be prorated based on the length of time in the
          bonus eligible position. All calculations are done using year-end
          financial data.

     -    If an employee transfers from one position that is eligible for an
          Award under the plan to another position that is eligible for an award
          under the plan, participation in the Plan will continue uninterrupted.
          However, if the transfer involves a move that will change the
          weightings used to determine an individual's annual incentive award,
          the bonus calculation will be based on the pro-rated time spent in
          each position. All calculations will be done using year-end data.
          Accountabilities must be separately established and assessed for each
          position separately.


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       9


o    Promotions

     -    If an employee is promoted during the fiscal year, new
          accountabilities must be established to reflect the new position.

o    Terminations

     -    Employees who are not employed by Airgas, Inc. on the date the annual
          incentive award is paid will receive no payment, unless it is
          contractually stated in a separation agreement and except for the
          following circumstances.

     -    Employees who retire or die during the plan year will be eligible for
          a prorated annual incentive award. The annual incentive award will be
          calculated from the date when they become eligible, normally the
          beginning of the Plan Year to the date of retirement or death.

o    Leave of absence

     -    If an employee is on a leave of absence at the end of the fiscal year,
          he or she will be eligible for an Award provided that he or she
          returns to work as an active employee. Any Award paid will be prorated
          based upon the length of time the employee was actively working
          during the fiscal year. The calculation will be made using year-end
          financial data. The Award payment will be made in the next regularly
          scheduled payroll cycle at the end of the associate's first month of
          employment following his or her return from leave of absence.

     -    If an employee is on a leave of absence during the fiscal year, and
          returns during the year, he or she will be eligible for an Award. Any
          Award paid will be prorated based upon the length of time an associate
          was actively working during the fiscal year. The calculation will be
          made using year-end financial data.

TAX CONSIDERATIONS AND WITHHOLDING
Participants will be required to report taxable income in the year the award is
received. The company will withhold taxes in the appropriate amount on all
payouts.

BANKRUPTCY
In the event Airgas, Inc. declares bankruptcy, the Executive Committee, at its
discretion, may immediately discontinue the Plan. In the event that the Plan is
discontinued, all participants will forfeit the right to any payments under the
Plan.

FUTURE EMPLOYMENT
Payment of an annual incentive award under this plan does not imply contractual
agreement to extend or continue employment of an employee beyond receipt of the
annual incentive award.


- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       10

EX-10.15

EXHIBIT 10.15



                           CHANGE OF CONTROL AGREEMENT


                  This is a CHANGE OF CONTROL AGREEMENT ("Agreement") dated
October 10, 2000, between Airgas, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"),
and Glenn Fischer (the "Executive").


                                   BACKGROUND

                  Executive is the current President and Chief Operating Officer
of the Company. The Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") has
determined it is in the Company's best interest to assure that the Company will
have the continued dedication of Executive, notwithstanding the possibility,
threat or occurrence of a Change of Control of the Company, as will be defined
below. To diminish the inevitable distraction to Executive by virtue of the
personal uncertainties and risks created by a pending or threatened Change of
Control, to encourage Executive's full attention and dedication to the Company
currently and in the event of any Change of Control, and to provide Executive
with compensation arrangements upon a Change of Control that provide Executive
financial security and that are competitive with peer corporations of the
Company, the Company and Executive desire to enter into this Agreement that is
in the best interests of the Company and Executive.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, intending to be legally bound, and in
consideration of the mutual promises and representations set forth in this
Agreement, the Company and Executive agree as follows:

                          ARTICLE I - TERM OF AGREEMENT

         1.1 TERM. The term of this Agreement shall commence as of the date
hereof, and shall terminate upon the earlier of (i) Executive's termination of
employment with the Company for any reason, or (ii) the later of (A) date which
is three years following the date on which a Change of Control, as defined in
Section 2.2, occurred; or (B) the date as of which funding is required under
3.5.2 following a Standstill Agreement provided, however, that the Agreement
shall remain in effect until Executive (or Executive's beneficiary if Executive
is not alive) has received any and all amounts to which Executive is entitled
under Article III, if any.



               ARTICLE II - TERMINATION OF EXECUTIVE'S EMPLOYMENT

         2.1 CHANGE OF CONTROL REQUIRED. No amounts or benefits shall be paid or
become payable to Executive under this Agreement unless a Change of Control, as
defined in Section 2.2, occurs.

         2.2 CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Agreement:

                  2.2.1 A "Change of Control" shall mean any one or more of the
         following:

                           2.2.1.1 As a result of a tender offer, stock
                  purchase, other stock acquisition, merger, consolidation,
                  recapitalization, reverse split, sale or transfer of any asset
                  or other transaction any person or group (as such terms are
                  used in and under Section 13(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
                  of 1934 (the "Exchange Act")) other than the Company, any
                  affiliate, or any employee benefit plan of the Company or an
                  affiliate, shall become the beneficial owner (as defined in
                  Rule 13-d under the Exchange Act) directly or indirectly of
                  securities of the Company representing 20% or more of the
                  combined voting power of the Company's then outstanding
                  securities; providing, however, that this provision shall not
                  apply to Peter McCausland ("McCausland"), unless and until
                  McCausland, together with all affiliates and associates,
                  becomes the beneficial owner of 30% or more of the combined
                  voting power of the Company's then outstanding securities;

                           2.2.1.2 Stockholders approve the consummation of any
                  merger of the Company or any sale or other disposition of all
                  or substantially all of its assets, if the Company's
                  stockholders immediately before such transaction own,
                  immediately after consummation of such transaction, equity
                  securities (other than options and other rights to acquire
                  equity securities) possessing less than 50% of the voting
                  power of the surviving or acquiring corporation; or

                           2.2.1.3 A change in the majority of the individuals
                  who constitute the Board occurs during any period of two years
                  for any reason without the approval of at least a majority of
                  directors in office at the beginning of such period.

                  2.2.2 A "Potential Change of Control" shall be deemed to have
         occurred if:


                                     - 2 -


                           2.2.2.1 The Company enters into an agreement, the
                  consummation of which would result in the occurrence of a
                  Change of Control of the Company;

                           2.2.2.2 Any person (including the Company) publicly
                  announces an intention to take or to consider taking actions
                  which if consummated would constitute a Change of Control of
                  the Company;

                           2.2.2.3 Any person, other than a trustee or other
                  fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of
                  the Company or a corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by
                  the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same
                  proportions as their ownership of stock of the Company, who is
                  or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of
                  securities of the Company representing 10% or more of the
                  combined voting power of the Company's then outstanding
                  securities, increases his beneficial ownership of such
                  securities by 5% or more of the combined voting power of the
                  Company's then outstanding securities on the effective date of
                  this Agreement; provided, that this Section 2.2.2.3 shall not
                  apply to an increase in ownership by McCausland; or

                           2.2.2.4 The Board adopts a resolution to the effect
                  that, for purposes of this Agreement, a "Potential Change of
                  Control" has occurred.

                  2.2.3 A "Triggering Event" means a Potential Change of Control
or a Change of Control.

         2.3 TERMINATION OF EXECUTIVE'S EMPLOYMENT ENTITLING EXECUTIVE TO
BENEFITS. A termination of Executive's employment In Connection With a Change of
Control (as hereinafter defined), for any reason set forth in this Section 2.3
shall entitle Executive to the amounts and benefits set forth in Section 3.1.
Such termination shall be considered "In Connection With a Change of Control" if
such termination occurs (i) within three years following a Change of Control or
(ii) following a Potential Change of Control but before an actual Change of
Control, provided the Potential Change of Control results in a Change of Control
within one year following the Potential Change of Control.

                  2.3.1 VOLUNTARY TERMINATION FOR GOOD REASON. Executive may
notify the Company of Executive's intention to terminate employment with the
Company for Good Reason, as hereinafter defined, In Connection With a Change of
Control. The Company shall have 30 days to cure the defects stated in such
notice


                                     - 3 -


that would give rise to a termination for Good Reason. If the Company has not
cured all such defects at the end of that 30-day period, Executive may terminate
employment with the Company effective, for purposes of this Agreement, as of the
date that Executive provided notice to the Company pursuant to the first
sentence of this Section 2.3.1, and Executive shall be entitled to the amounts
and benefits set forth in Section 3.1. For purposes of this Agreement, "Good
Reason" shall mean any of the following:


                           2.3.1.1 Any change in Executive's total compensation
                  and benefits package from the Company that, in the aggregate,
                  materially decreases Executive's total compensation. Such
                  changes include, but are not limited to, a decrease in
                  Executive's annual base salary, a decrease in any incentive
                  compensation opportunity, a decrease in any material benefit
                  plan, program or policy in which Executive is participating at
                  the time of a Triggering Event, or the taking of any action by
                  the Company that would adversely affect Executive's
                  participation in or materially reduce Executive's opportunity
                  to receive benefits under any such benefit plan, program or
                  policy or that would deprive Executive of any material fringe
                  benefit enjoyed by Executive at the time of a Triggering
                  Event; provided, however, that no single decrease shall be
                  determinative, but rather the aggregate of all such decreases
                  and any increases in compensation or benefits shall determine
                  whether there has been a material decrease in Executive's
                  total compensation and benefits package; or

                           2.3.1.2 Executive's relocation to any location more
                  than 35 miles from the location at which Executive performed
                  his duties prior to a Triggering Event, except for required
                  travel by Executive on the Company's business to an extent
                  substantially consistent with Executive's business travel
                  obligations prior to a Triggering Event.

                  2.3.2 INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION OTHER THAN FOR CAUSE. If the
Company terminates Executive's employment other than for Cause, as defined in
Section 2.4, In Connection With a Change of Control, Executive shall be entitled
to the amounts and benefits set forth in Section 3.1.

         2.4 CAUSE DEFINED. Executive's termination of employment with the
Company shall be for "Cause" if one or more of the following events occur:

                  2.4.1 Executive's willful misconduct or gross negligence in
the performance of Executive's duties;


                                     - 4 -


                  2.4.2 Executive's commission of any act of fraud or
embezzlement against the Company or Executive's commission of a felony or any
other offense involving moral turpitude; or

                  2.4.3 Executive's unauthorized dissemination of confidential
information, observations, and data concerning the business plans, financial
data, customer lists, trade secrets and acquisitions strategies of the Company
and its subsidiaries which has a material adverse effect on the Company or its
subsidiaries.

         2.5 NO OTHER AMOUNTS PAYABLE. Except as provided in Section 2.3, no
amounts or benefits shall be paid or become payable to Executive under this
Agreement.


                             ARTICLE III - BENEFITS

         3.1 BENEFITS. If Executive's employment with the Company terminates in
a manner described in Section 2.3, the Company shall pay Executive the following
amounts and provide to Executive the following benefits, subject to Sections
3.3:

                  3.1.1 CASH PAYMENT. As soon as practicable, but not later than
60 days following the later of (i) Executive's termination of employment, or
(ii) the Change of Control, the Company shall make a lump sum payment to
Executive equal to three times the sum of (x) and (y), as described immediately
hereafter. For this purpose, (x) equals the greater of Executive's annual base
salary as in effect (a) immediately prior to Executive's termination, or (b) at
the time a Triggering Event occurred, and (y) equals the potential bonus amount
determined for Executive under the Company's bonus plan for the fiscal year of
the Company in which a Triggering Event occurred (or, if no such bonus amount
has been determined for any such fiscal year, the immediately preceding fiscal
year of the Company) as if 100% of plan established pursuant to such bonus plan
were achieved and the maximum level of the discretionary portion were achieved.

                  3.1.2 HEALTH AND WELFARE BENEFITS. For a period of three years
following Executive's termination of employment, the Company shall continue to
provide Executive with medical, dental, prescription drug, life, accidental
death, and disability (short-term and long-term) insurance benefits at the same
level and cost to Executive as were in effect immediately prior to Executive's
termination. If the Executive's employment terminates after a Potential Change
of Control and no Change of Control occurs within one year of the Potential
Change of Control, such benefits shall continue only until the expiration of
such one-year period. However,


                                     - 5 -


the above benefits shall terminate if Executive is entitled to comparable
coverage from a subsequent employer, to the extent permitted under Code section
4980B. The Executive and his dependents shall continue to receive or be eligible
for benefits under the Company's Scholarship and Tuition Reimbursement Programs
as if the Executive remained employed by the Company for the remainder of the
relevant academic year(s) in which the Executive's employment terminates.

                  3.1.3 STOCK OPTIONS AND RESTRICTED STOCK. All stock options
and restricted stock grants awarded to Executive under any stock option or stock
grant plans of the Company shall become fully vested upon a Change of Control
and, notwithstanding any provision of any such option plan to the contrary, any
stock option shall remain exercisable until that option's expiration date,
determined without regard to Executive's termination of employment.

         3.2 REDUCTION OF BENEFITS.

                  3.2.1 REDUCED PAYMENT. If any payment or benefit provided to
Executive by the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (the "Payment")
shall be determined to be an "Excess Parachute Payment," (as defined in Code
section 280G(b)(1)), that would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Code
Section 4999, then the aggregate present value of amounts or benefits payable to
Executive pursuant to this Agreement (the "Agreement Payments") shall be reduced
(but not below zero) to the Reduced Amount. The "Reduced Amount" shall be an
amount expressed in present value that maximizes the aggregate present value of
Agreement Payments without causing any payments or benefits hereunder to be an
Excess Parachute Payment. Anything to the contrary notwithstanding, if the
Reduced Amount is zero and it is determined further that any payment from the
Company to Executive that is not an Agreement Payment would nevertheless be an
Excess Parachute Payment, then the aggregate present value of Payments that are
not Agreement Payments shall also be reduced (but not below zero) to an amount,
if any, if the present value of such lesser amount maximizes the aggregate
present value of Payments to Executive on an after-tax basis, taking into
account income and excise taxes under section 1 and section 4999 of the Code.
For purposes of this Section 3.2 present value shall be determined in accordance
with section 280G(d)(4) of the Code.

                  3.2.2 DETERMINATION OF AGREEMENT PAYMENTS. All determinations
required under this Section 3.2 shall be made by a national accounting firm
retained by the Company at its own expense. The accounting firm shall provide
the Company and the Executive with a report and supporting calculations within
15 business days of the date Executive's employment with the Company terminates
or such earlier time as is requested by the Company. In addition, the accounting
firm


                                     - 6 -


shall provide an opinion to Executive that the Executive has substantial
authority not to report any excise tax on Executive's federal income tax return
with respect to the Agreement Payments. Any such determination by the accounting
firm shall be binding upon the Company and Executive. Executive shall determine
which and how much of the Agreement Payments or Payments, as the case may be,
shall be eliminated or reduced consistent with the requirements of this Section
3.2, provided that, if Executive does not make such determination within 10
business days of the receipt of the calculations from the accounting firm, the
Company shall elect which and how much of the Agreement Payments or Payments, as
the case may be, shall be eliminated or reduced consistent with the requirements
of this Section 3.2 and shall notify Executive promptly of such election. Within
10 business days thereafter, the Company shall pay to or distribute to or for
the benefit of Executive such amounts are then due to Executive under this
Agreement.

         3.3 DEFERRAL OF BENEFITS. If the Company, based on written advice of
reputable counsel, a copy of which shall be provided to Executive, determines
that in the aggregate any benefit or payment under this Agreement and under any
other arrangement or agreement between the Company and Executive would not be
deductible for federal income taxes by the Company solely as a result of the
application of section 162(m) of the Code, the payment of any amounts otherwise
payable under this Agreement in the then current year shall be reduced, but not
below zero, by the amount of any such non-deductible amounts. The Company shall
pay the entire non-deductible amount to Executive at the earliest possible time
or times that such amounts (or portions thereof) may be paid to Executive
without such amounts being non-deductible under Code section 162(m), along with
interest accrued on such amounts since the date they would have been payable but
for this Section 3.3 calculated at the applicable federal short-term rate. If
any other agreement between the Company and Executive provides for the deferral
of payments from the Company to Executive solely as a result of the application
of Code section 162(m), the deferral provisions in this Agreement shall prevail
and all deferrals shall be made from amounts payable under Section 3.1 of this
Agreement before any amounts may be deferred under any other arrangements solely
as a result of the application of Code section 162(m).

         3.4 WITHHOLDING TAXES. The Company shall withhold from any payments or
benefits made under this Agreement all applicable federal, state and local
income and employment taxes, as well as any other amounts required to be
withheld under any law.

         3.5 FUNDING.

                  3.5.1 REQUIRED FUNDING. The Company shall not be required to


                                     - 7 -


fund in advance the amounts and benefits payable under this Agreement until a
Triggering Event occurs. Upon the occurrence of a Triggering Event, the Company
shall immediately contribute an amount to an irrevocable grantor trust, of which
Executive is the beneficiary and a third-party is the trustee (a "Trust"), equal
to 120% of the amounts that could become payable to Executive under this
Agreement.

                  3.5.2 STANDSTILL AGREEMENTS. Notwithstanding Section 3.5.1, if
a transaction is approved by the Board, including one that would constitute a
Change of Control, and the transaction is accompanied by a Board approved
standstill agreement that provides for (i) no further acquisition of Company
securities by the shareholder(s) entering into the agreement and (ii) management
autonomy for the Company's management at the time the agreement is executed (a
"Standstill Agreement"), the Board shall determine whether to contribute amounts
to a Trust to fund benefits payable under this Agreement at the time the
Standstill Agreement is executed. The Company shall fund such a Trust, however,
if after such a transaction and the execution of a Standstill Agreement (i) the
terms of the Standstill Agreement, including the management autonomy provision,
are violated or (ii) the Company terminates any of its executive officers
without Cause, as defined in Section 2.4. If a Trust is to be funded under this
Section 3.5.2, the Company shall immediately contribute an amount to the Trust
equal to 120% of the amounts that could become payable to Executive under this
Agreement.

                  3.5.3 PAYMENTS FROM TRUST AND REVERSIONS. To the extent any
provision of this Agreement provides for a payment from the Company to
Executive, the Company may direct the trustee of a Trust created pursuant to
this Section 3.5 to make such payment to the extent that any remaining assets in
the Trust are reasonably expected to be sufficient for any additional amounts or
benefits that may be due Executive from the Company under this Agreement. No
amount in a Trust may revert to the Company until 90 days after the expiration
of the Term of this Agreement. Notwithstanding the above, (i) if the Triggering
Event causing a Trust to be funded under Section 3.5.1 is a Potential Change of
Control and no Change of Control occurs within one year of the Potential Change
of Control, amounts in the Trust may revert to the Company at the expiration of
such one-year period, and (ii) if Executive has brought a lawsuit against the
Company claiming amounts or benefits under this Agreement, no amounts from the
Trust shall revert to the Company while such claim is pending.

         3.6 LEGAL EXPENSES. If Executive determines in good faith to retain
legal counsel and/or to incur other reasonable costs or expenses in order to
enforce any or all of Executive's rights under this Agreement, the Company shall
pay all such attorneys' fees, costs and expenses incurred in connection with
non-frivolous applications to interpret or enforce Executive's rights. In
addition, during the


                                     - 8 -


pendency of any such controversy or claim, the Company will continue to pay
Executive, with the customary frequency, the greater of Executive's base pay as
in effect immediately prior to the Triggering Event or immediately prior to
Executive's termination of employment, and, to the extent permitted under law,
to provide the Executive with the same benefits Executive was receiving
immediately prior to the Triggering Event until the controversy or claim finally
is resolved. These payments and the provision of benefits hereunder shall be in
addition to, and not in derogation or mitigation of any other payment or benefit
due Executive under this Agreement.

         3.7 NO DUTY OF MITIGATION. The Executive shall have no duty to seek new
employment after his employment with the Company terminates or to take any other
actions which could reduce the amounts the Company is obligated to pay or reduce
the benefits the Company is required to provide under this Agreement.

                           ARTICLE IV - MISCELLANEOUS

         4.1 MODIFICATION OF THIS AGREEMENT. Executive acknowledges and agrees
that no one employed by or representing the Company has any authority to make
oral statements which modify, waive or discharge, in any manner, any provision
of this Agreement. Executive further acknowledges and agrees that no provision
of this Agreement may be modified, waived or discharged unless agreed to in
writing, and signed and executed by Executive and the Board, or its delegate.
Executive acknowledges and agrees that in executing this Agreement Executive has
not relied upon any representation or statement made by the Company or its
representatives, other than those specifically stated in this Agreement.

         4.2 NOTICES. All notices required or permitted hereunder shall be made
in writing by hand-delivery, certified or registered first-class mail, facsimile
transmission or air courier guaranteeing overnight delivery to the other party
at the following addresses:

         To Company:      Airgas, Inc.
                          259 N. Radnor-Chester Road
                          Radnor, PA 19087-8675
                          Attention: Corporate Secretary

         To Executive:    Glenn Fischer
                          39 Rochelle Drive
                          New City, NY  10956

or to such other address as either of such parties may designate in a written
notice


                                     - 9 -


served upon the other party in the manner provided herein. All notices required
or permitted hereunder shall be deemed duly given and received when delivered by
hand, if personally delivered; on the fifth day next succeeding the date of
mailing if sent by certified or registered first-class mail, when received if
sent by facsimile transmission, and on the next business day, if timely
delivered to an air courier guaranteeing overnight delivery.

         4.3 EMPLOYMENT STATUS. Unless an agreement between the Company and the
Executive provides otherwise, the Company and Executive acknowledge that,
notwithstanding this Agreement, the employment of Executive by the Company is
"at will," and the Company may terminate Executive's employment with the Company
at any time, although certain terminations as specified in Article II will
entitle Executive to amounts and benefits from the Company.

         4.4 OTHER ARRANGEMENTS NOT AFFECTED. Except as otherwise provided
herein, this Agreement shall not have any effect on any other benefit plan,
arrangement or agreement under which Executive currently participates, has in
the past participated, or may in the future participate.

         4.5 APPLICABLE LAW. The parties have agreed that this Agreement shall
be governed by, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania without giving effect to conflict of law
principles.

         4.6 HEADINGS. The headings used throughout this Agreement have been
used for convenience only and do not constitute matter to be considered in
interpreting this Agreement.


                                     - 10 -


                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this
Agreement as of the dates indicated below:


Glenn Fischer                               AIRGAS, INC.



Signature:  /S/Glenn Fischer                 By:   /S/Peter McCausland
                                                   Peter McCausland



Date:       October 10, 2000                 Title:   Chairman and CEO

                                             Date:    October 10, 2000



                                     - 11 -

EX-11

                                   EXHIBIT 11

                          AIRGAS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                         EARNINGS PER SHARE CALCULATIONS




                                                                                     Years Ended March 31,
(In thousands, except per share amounts)                                       2002            2001          2000
                                                                          ------------------------------------------
                                                                                                
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING:

     Basic shares outstanding                                                 68,100          66,000         69,200

     Stock options and warrants - incremental shares                           1,800             600          1,000

     Contingently issuable shares                                                 --             600            400
                                                                          ----------      ----------     ----------

     Diluted shares outstanding                                               69,900          67,200         70,600
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

Net earnings (loss)                                                       $  (10,415)     $   28,223     $   38,283
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:
 Earnings per share before the cumulative effect of
   a change in accounting principle                                       $      .71      $      .43     $      .56
 Cumulative effect per share of a change in
   accounting principle                                                         (.86)             --           (.01)
                                                                          ----------      ----------     ----------
 Net earnings (loss) per share                                            $     (.15)     $      .43     $      .55
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:
 Earnings per share before the cumulative effect of
   a change in accounting principle                                       $      .69      $      .42     $      .55
 Cumulative effect per share of a change in
   accounting principle                                                         (.84)             --           (.01)
                                                                          ----------      ----------     ----------
 Net earnings (loss) per share                                            $     (.15)     $      .42     $      .54
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

PRO FORMA AMOUNTS ASSUMING THE APPLICATION OF THE
  CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE (ADOPTION OF SFAS 142)
  APPLIED RETROACTIVELY:

Net earnings                                                              $   48,585      $   41,963     $   52,359
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

Basic earnings per share                                                  $      .71      $      .64     $      .75
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

Diluted earnings per share                                                $      .69      $      .62     $      .74
                                                                          ==========      ==========     ==========

EX-21

                                                   EXHIBIT 21

                                          Airgas, Inc. and Subsidiaries



Corporation Name                                     Domicile
- ----------------                                     --------
                                                  
Airgas Gulf States, Inc.                             DE
Airgas Intermountain, Inc.                           CO
Airgas Great Lakes, Inc.                             DE
Airgas Mid America, Inc.                             DE
Airgas Mid South, Inc.                               DE
Airgas Nor Pac, Inc.                                 DE
Airgas North Central, Inc.                           DE
Airgas East, Inc.                                    DE
Airgas Northern California & Nevada, Inc.            DE
Airgas South, Inc.                                   DE
Airgas Southwest, Inc.                               DE
Airgas West, Inc.                                    CA
Airgas Canada, Inc.                                  Canada
Airgas Carbonic, Inc.                                DE
Airgas Data, LLC                                     DE
Airgas International, Inc.                           VI
Airgas Realty, Inc.                                  DE
Airgas Safety, Inc.                                  DE
Airgas Specialty Gases, Inc.                         TX
ATNL, Inc.                                           DE
Nitrous Oxide Corp.                                  DE
Puritan Medical Products, Inc.                       DE
Radnor Funding Corp.                                 DE
Red-D-Arc, Inc.                                      NV
Red-D-Arc Limited                                    Canada
Rutland Tool & Supply Co., Inc.                      CA

EX-23

EXHIBIT 23






                         Consent of Independent Auditors



The Board of Directors
Airgas, Inc.:

We consent to incorporation by referrence in the registration statements
(Nos. 33-39433, 33-48388, 33-57893, 33-61301, 33-61899, 33-63201, 33-64633,
333-08113, 333-37863, 333-46739, 333-60995, 333-61989 and 333-46266) on Form
S-3, (Nos. 333-23651 and 333-68722) on Form S-4 and (Nos. 33-21780, 33-25419,
33-33954, 33-64056, 33-64058, 33-64112, 333-28261, 333-42023, 333-60999,
333-69214, 333-75256 and 333-75258) on Form S-8 of Airgas, Inc. of our report
dated May 6, 2002, relating to the consolidated balance sheets of Airgas,
Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of March 31, 2002 and 2001, and the
related consolidated statements of earnings, stockholders' equity, and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2002,
and all related schedules, which report appears in the March 31, 2002, annual
report on Form 10-K of Airgas, Inc. Our report refers to a change in the
Company's method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets and
derivative instruments and hedging activities for the year ended March 31,
2002.



/s/ KPMG LLP


Philadelphia Pennsylvania
June 20, 2002