Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Shares Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Shares (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax	$ 24,331	$ 13,033	$ 31,973	$ (15,930)
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	80,760	80,631	80,733	80,605
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation	244	251	234	0
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	81,004	80,882	80,967	80,605
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic	$ 0.30	$ 0.16	$ 0.40	$ (0.20)
Diluted	$ 0.30	$ 0.16	$ 0.39	$ (0.20)