Other Income (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015		Mar. 31, 2014
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Net gains	$ (3,790)		$ (2,358)
Foreign currency gains related to Harsco Rail Segment advances on contracts	(10,940)		0
Other	1,525	[1]	1,702	[1]
Other income	$ (13,205)		$ (656)

[1] Other includes employee termination benefit costs and costs to exit activities that are not directly related to the restructuring programs detailed in Note 18, Restructuring Programs.