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		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax	$ (233,255)	$ 26,208	$ (201,282)	$ 10,278
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	80,775	80,659	80,747	80,623
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation	0	251	0	240
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	80,775	80,910	80,747	80,863
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic	$ (2.89)	$ 0.32	$ (2.49)	$ 0.13
Diluted	$ (2.89)	$ 0.32	$ (2.49)	$ 0.13