CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 27,376	$ 13,273	$ 36,448	$ (16,299)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of deferred income taxes	(34,539)	(67,119)	(46,555)	(31,079)
Net gains (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, net of deferred income taxes of $1,206 and $769 , and $(680) and $(895) for the three and six months ened June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively	(1,525)	1,939	536	2,701
Pension liability adjustments, net of deferred income taxes of $(457) and $(4,548), and $(2,118) and $(1,325) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively	3,220	14,267	31,223	8,849
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of deferred income taxes of $0 and $(5), and $3 and $(1) for the three and sixth months ended June 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively	0	(5)	8	2
Total other comprehensive loss	(32,844)	(50,918)	(14,788)	(19,527)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(5,468)	(37,645)	21,660	(35,826)
Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,946	316	4,595	12
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	$ (2,522)	$ (37,329)	$ 26,255	$ (35,814)