Press Release

PITTSBURGH, Jan. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of MSA (NYSE: MSA) today declared a first quarter dividend of 26 cents per share on common stock, payable March 10, 2012 to shareholders of record on February 14, 2012.

The Board also declared a dividend of 56-1/4 cents per share on preferred stock, payable March 1, 2012 to shareholders of record on February 14, 2012.

About MSA:

Established in 1914, MSA is a global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of safety products that protect people's health and safety.  Many MSA products typically integrate any combination of electronics, mechanical systems and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life-threatening situations. The company's comprehensive line of products is used by workers around the world in the fire service, oil, gas and petrochemical industry, homeland security, construction, mining and other industries, as well as the military.  Principal products include self-contained breathing apparatus, gas masks, gas detection instruments, head protection, fall protection devices and thermal imaging cameras. The company also provides a broad range of consumer and contractor safety products through a joint venture with MCR Safety.  These products are marketed and sold under the Safety Works® brand.  MSA has annual sales of approximately $1 billion, manufacturing operations in the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America, and 42 international locations.  Additional information is available on the company's Web site at www.msanet.com.  Information on Safety Works products can be found at www.SafetyWorks.com.

SOURCE MSA

CONTACT: Mark Deasy, +1-724-741-8570