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, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax	$ (15,065)	$ 24,331	$ (3,523)	$ 31,973
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	80,885	80,760	80,850	80,733
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation	0	244	0	234
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	80,885	81,004	80,850	80,967
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic	$ (0.19)	$ 0.30	$ (0.04)	$ 0.40
Diluted	$ (0.19)	$ 0.30	$ (0.04)	$ 0.39