Enviri (NVRI) 10-K 24 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 31, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	HARSCO CORP
Entity Central Index Key	45,876
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		80,182,217
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$ 532,362

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 71,879	$ 79,756
Trade accounts receivable, net	236,554	254,877
Other receivables	21,053	30,395
Inventories	187,681	216,967
Other current assets	60,523	82,527
Total current assets	577,690	664,522
Investments	1,944	252,609
Property, plant and equipment, net	490,255	564,035
Goodwill	382,251	400,367
Intangible assets, net	41,567	53,043
Other assets	87,679	126,621
Total assets	1,581,386	2,061,197
Current liabilities:
Short-term borrowings	4,259	30,229
Current maturities of long-term debt	25,574	25,084
Accounts payable	107,954	136,018
Accrued compensation	46,658	38,899
Income taxes payable	4,301	4,408
Dividends payable	0	4,105
Insurance liabilities	11,850	11,420
Advances on contracts	117,329	107,250
Due to unconsolidated affiliate	0	7,733
Due to related party	0	22,320
Other current liabilities	110,029	118,657
Total current liabilities	427,954	506,123
Long-term debt	629,239	845,621
Deferred income taxes	2,621	12,095
Insurance liabilities	25,265	30,400
Retirement plan liabilities	319,597	241,972
Due to unconsolidated affiliate	0	13,674
Due to related party	0	57,614
Other liabilities	39,147	42,895
Total liabilities	1,443,823	1,750,394
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
HARSCO CORPORATION STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued	0	0
Common stock, par value $1.25 (issued 112,499,874 and 112,405,302 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively)	140,625	140,503
Additional paid-in capital	172,101	170,699
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(606,722)	(515,688)
Retained earnings	1,150,688	1,236,355
Treasury stock, at cost (32,324,911 and 32,310,937 shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively)	(760,391)	(760,299)
Total Harsco Corporation stockholders' equity	96,301	271,570
Noncontrolling interests	41,262	39,233
Total equity	137,563	310,803
Total liabilities and equity	$ 1,581,386	$ 2,061,197

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Common stock, par value	$ 1.25	$ 1.25
Common stock, shares issued	112,499,874	112,405,302
Treasury stock, shares	32,324,911	32,310,937

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from continuing operations:
Service revenues	$ 939,129	$ 1,092,725	$ 1,366,246
Product revenues	512,094	630,367	700,042
Total revenues	1,451,223	1,723,092	2,066,288
Costs and expenses from continuing operations:
Cost of services sold	759,120	909,995	1,149,360
Cost of products sold	411,343	446,366	494,510
Selling, general and administrative expenses	200,391	242,112	284,737
Research and development expenses	4,280	4,510	5,467
Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs	0	1,000	5,103
Other expenses	12,620	30,573	57,824
Total costs and expenses	1,387,754	1,634,556	1,997,001
Operating income from continuing operations	63,469	88,536	69,287
Interest income	2,475	1,574	1,702
Interest expense	(51,584)	(46,804)	(47,111)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	(35,337)	0	0
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability	(58,494)
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability	(4,700)	(8,491)	(9,740)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss)	(79,471)	34,815	14,138
Income tax expense	(6,637)	(27,678)	(30,366)
Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated entities, net	5,686	175	(1,558)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	(80,422)	7,312	(17,786)
Discontinued operations:
Income (loss) on disposal of discontinued business	1,061	(1,553)	176
Income tax (expense) benefit related to discontinued business	(392)	573	(66)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	669	(980)	110
Net income (loss)	(79,753)	6,332	(17,676)
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,914)	(144)	(4,495)
Net income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	(85,667)	6,188	(22,171)
Amounts attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax	(86,336)	7,168	(22,281)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	669	(980)	110
Net income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders	$ (85,667)	$ 6,188	$ (22,171)
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding	80,333	80,234	80,884
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations	$ (1.07)	$ 0.09	$ (0.28)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01)	0
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders	$ (1.07)	$ 0.08	$ (0.27)
Diluted weighted average shares of stock outstanding	80,333	80,365	80,884
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations	$ (1.07)	$ 0.09	$ (0.28)
Discontinued operations	0.01	(0.01)	0
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders	$ (1.07)	$ 0.08	$ (0.27)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net income (loss)	$ (79,753)	$ 6,332	$ (17,676)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of deferred income taxes of $(13,670), $(2,314) and $7,151 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively	(21,560)	(88,255)	(47,695)
Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, net of deferred income taxes of $(544), $(975) and $(338) in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively	(682)	8,617	(1,957)
Pension liability adjustments, net of deferred income taxes of $34, $1,443 and $17,554 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively	(71,398)	93,582	(113,596)
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of deferred income taxes of $(16), $10 and $(3) in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively	26	(16)	5
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(93,614)	13,928	(163,243)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(173,367)	20,260	(180,919)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,334)	2,496	(2,893)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	$ (176,701)	$ 22,756	$ (183,812)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COM6

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax	$ (13,670)	$ (2,314)	$ 7,151
Net gains (losses) on cash flow hedging instruments, deferred income taxes	(544)	(975)	(338)
Pension liability adjustments, deferred income taxes	34	1,443	17,554
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, deferred income taxes	$ (16)	$ 10	$ (3)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ (79,753)	$ 6,332	$ (17,676)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	129,083	144,652	164,588
Amortization	12,403	11,823	11,738
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability	58,494	8,491	9,740
Contract estimated forward loss provision for Harsco Rail Segment	45,050	0	0
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	35,337	0	0
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)	(7,654)	5,174	7,241
Equity in income of unconsolidated entities, net	(5,686)	(175)	1,558
Dividends from unconsolidated entities	16	28	0
Loss on disposal of Harsco Infrastructure Segment	0	0	2,911
Other, net	2,085	(6,429)	39,376
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions of businesses:
Accounts receivable	16,041	41,650	6,475
Inventories	(12,313)	(44,806)	(20,788)
Accounts payable	(20,285)	(401)	(29,416)
Accrued interest payable	(3,197)	(2,753)	70
Accrued compensation	8,865	(10,319)	5,699
Advances on contracts and other customer advances	14,485	(795)	92,769
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Pension Costs	(20,420)	(24,593)	(27,775)
Harsco 2011/2012 Restructuring Program accrual	0	(398)	(2,672)
Other assets and liabilities	(12,766)	(5,974)	(17,111)
Net cash provided by operating activities	159,785	121,507	226,727
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	(69,340)	(123,552)	(208,859)
Proceeds from Infrastructure transaction	0	0	15,699
Proceeds from sales of assets	9,305	25,966	14,976
Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired	(26)	(7,788)	(26,336)
Payment of unit adjustment liability	0	(22,320)	(22,320)
Proceeds from sale of equity investment	165,640	0	0
Other investing activities, net	17,308	(2,679)	(2,721)
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities	122,887	(130,373)	(229,561)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Short-term borrowings, net	(2,350)	18,875	8,851
Current maturities and long-term debt:
Additions	720,727	427,996	177,499
Reductions	(979,567)	(399,533)	(131,007)
Cash dividends paid on common stock	(4,105)	(65,730)	(66,322)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(1,702)	(4,498)	(2,186)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests	(4,731)	(395)	0
Common stock acquired for treasury	0	(12,143)	(941)
Proceeds from derivative transaction	16,625	75,057	0
Deferred pension underfunding payment to unconsolidated affiliate	(20,640)	(7,688)	(7,688)
Other financing activities, net	(16,530)	(9,487)	0
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities	(292,273)	22,454	(21,794)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	1,724	3,325	(6,134)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(7,877)	16,913	(30,762)
Cash and cash equivalents	71,879	79,756	62,843
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	71,879	79,756	62,843
Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired
Working capital	0	(560)	(1,107)
Property, plant and equipment	0	(72)	(330)
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	0	(3,490)	(6,839)
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets	0	(4,078)	(17,575)
Other noncurrent assets and liabilities, net	(26)	412	(485)
Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired	$ (26)	$ (7,788)	$ (26,336)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock Issued	Treasury Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 597,555	$ 140,248	$ (746,237)	$ 159,025	$ 1,372,041	$ (370,615)	$ 43,093
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(17,676)				(22,171)		4,495
Cash dividends declared:
Common @ $0.82 per share and $0.666 per share in 2014, and 2015, respectively	(66,321)				(66,321)
Noncontrolling interests	(2,319)						(2,319)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income taxes of $24,364, $(1,836), and $(14,196) in 2014, 2015, and 2016 respectively	(163,243)					(161,641)	(1,602)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	1,560						1,560
Noncontrolling interests transferred in the Infrastructure Transaction	(905)						(905)
Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 130,925 shares, 31,147 shares and 80,598 shares in 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively	1,551	196	(714)	2,069
Treasury shares repurchased, 150,000 and 596,632 shares in 2014 and 2015 respectively	(2,864)		(2,864)
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation, net of forfeitures	4,572			4,572
Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	351,910	140,444	(749,815)	165,666	1,283,549	(532,256)	44,322
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	6,332				6,188		144
Cash dividends declared:
Common @ $0.82 per share and $0.666 per share in 2014, and 2015, respectively	(53,382)				(53,382)
Noncontrolling interests	(4,498)						(4,498)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income taxes of $24,364, $(1,836), and $(14,196) in 2014, 2015, and 2016 respectively	13,928					16,568	(2,640)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	2,100						2,100
Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest	(398)			(3)			(395)
Sale of investment in consolidated subsidiary	200						200
Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 130,925 shares, 31,147 shares and 80,598 shares in 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively	(304)	59	(264)	(99)
Treasury shares repurchased, 150,000 and 596,632 shares in 2014 and 2015 respectively	(10,220)		(10,220)
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation, net of forfeitures	5,135			5,135
Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	310,803	140,503	(760,299)	170,699	1,236,355	(515,688)	39,233
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)	(79,753)				(85,667)		5,914
Cash dividends declared:
Noncontrolling interests	(1,702)						(1,702)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income taxes of $24,364, $(1,836), and $(14,196) in 2014, 2015, and 2016 respectively	(93,614)					(91,034)	(2,580)
Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest	(4,731)			(5,128)			397
Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 130,925 shares, 31,147 shares and 80,598 shares in 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively	(1,164)	122	(92)	(1,194)
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation, net of forfeitures	7,724			7,724
Balances at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 137,563	$ 140,625	$ (760,391)	$ 172,101	$ 1,150,688	$ (606,722)	$ 41,262

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHA9

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Parenthetical) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax		$ (14,196)	$ (1,836)	$ 24,364
Cash dividends declared, Common, per share	$ 0.051	$ 0	$ 0.666	$ 0.82
Vesting of restricted stock units, shares		80,598	31,147	130,925
Treasury shares repurchased, shares			0	0
Treasury Stock [Member]
Treasury shares repurchased, shares		0	596,632	150,000

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include all accounts of Harsco Corporation (the "Company"), all entities in which the Company has a controlling voting interest and variable interest entities required to be consolidated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("U.S. GAAP"). Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated among consolidated entities. The Company's management has evaluated all activity of the Company and concluded that subsequent events are properly reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes as required by U.S. GAAP. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform with current year classifications. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term investments that are highly liquid in nature and have an original maturity of three months or less. Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventories in the U.S. are principally accounted for using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. The Company's remaining inventories are accounted for using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") or average cost methods. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, for additional information. Depreciation Property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets using, principally, the straight-line method. When property, plant and equipment is retired from service, the cost of the retirement is charged to the allowance for depreciation to the extent of the accumulated depreciation and the balance is charged to income. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale are not depreciated while they are classified as held-for-sale. Leases The Company leases certain property and equipment under noncancelable lease agreements. All lease agreements are evaluated and classified as either an operating or capital lease in accordance with U.S. GAAP. A lease is classified as a capital lease if any of the following criteria are met: transfer of ownership to the Company by the end of the lease term; the lease contains a bargain purchase option; the lease term is equal to or greater than 75% of the asset's economic life; or the present value of future minimum lease payments is equal to or greater than 90% of the asset's fair market value. Operating lease expense is recognized ratably over the lease term, including rent abatement periods and rent holidays. See Note 6, Property, Plant and Equipment, and Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements, for additional information on capital leases and Note 9, Operating Leases, for additional information on operating leases. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist, or if a decision is made to dispose of a business. Goodwill is allocated among and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below for which discrete financial information is available. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include declining cash flows or operating losses at the reporting unit level, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, or a more likely than not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed of, among others. The Company performs the annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1 . The Company has five reporting units, only three of which have goodwill associated with them as of December 31, 2016 . Almost all of the Company's goodwill is included in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment. The evaluation of potential goodwill impairment involves comparing the current fair value of each reporting unit to the net book value, including goodwill. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model (“DCF model”) to estimate the current fair value of reporting units, as management believes forecasted operating cash flows are the best indicator of current fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the preparation of DCF models including future revenues and operating margin growth, the weighted-average cost of capital (“WACC”), tax rates, capital spending, pension funding, the impact of business initiatives, and working capital projections. These assumptions and estimates may vary significantly among reporting units. DCF models are based on approved long-range plans for the early years and historical relationships and projections for later years. WACC rates are derived from internal and external factors including, but not limited to, the average market price of the Company's stock, shares outstanding, book value of the Company's debt, the long-term risk free interest rate, and both market and size-specific risk premiums. Due to the many variables noted above and the relative size of the Company's goodwill, differences in assumptions may have a material impact on the results of the Company's annual goodwill impairment testing. If the net book value of a reporting unit were to exceed the current fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test would currently be required to determine if an impairment existed and the amount of goodwill impairment to record, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the net book value of a reporting unit's goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill represents the excess of fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit if it were to be acquired in a hypothetical business combination and the current fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. As necessary, the Company may use valuation experts to assist with the second step of the goodwill impairment test. See Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information. Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Other than Goodwill) Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate the book value of an asset may be impaired. The Company's policy is to determine if an impairment loss exists when it is determined that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the sum of the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from use of the asset, and its eventual disposition. Impairment losses are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, normally as determined in either open market transactions or through the use of a DCF model. Long-lived assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell. See Note 17, Other Expenses, for additional information. Deferred Financing Costs The Company has incurred debt issuance costs which are recognized as Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Debt issuance costs are amortized and recognized as interest expense over the contractual term of the related indebtedness or shorter period if appropriate based upon contractual terms. Whenever indebtedness is modified from its original terms, an evaluation is made whether an accounting modification or extinguishment has occurred in order to determine the accounting treatment for debt issuance costs related to the debt modification. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") which required that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct reduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. See Note 2, Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards for additional information. Revenue Recognition Service revenues and product revenues are recognized when they are realized or realizable and when earned. Revenue is realized or realizable and earned when all of the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the Company's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Service revenues include the service components of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments. Product revenues include the Harsco Industrial Segment and the product revenues of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments. Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment —This Segment provides services predominantly on a long-term, volume-of-production contract basis. Contracts may include both fixed monthly fees as well as variable fees based upon specific services provided to the customer. The fixed-fee portion is recognized periodically as earned (normally monthly) over the contractual period. The variable-fee portion is recognized as services are performed and differs from period to period based upon the actual provision of services. This Segment also sells industrial abrasives and roofing granule products. Product revenues are recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract. Harsco Industrial Segment —This Segment sells industrial grating products, high-security fencing, heat exchangers, and heat transfer products. Product revenues are generally recognized when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract or purchase order. Harsco Rail Segment —This Segment sells railway track maintenance equipment, after-market parts and provides railway track maintenance services. Product revenue is recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract. Revenue may be recognized subsequent to the transfer of title and risk of loss for certain product sales, if the specific sales contract includes a customer acceptance clause that provides for different timing. In those situations, revenue is recognized after transfer of title and risk of loss and after customer acceptance. Certain contracts within the Harsco Rail Segment, which meet specific criteria established in U.S. GAAP, are accounted for as long-term contracts. The Company recognizes revenues on two contracts from the federal railway system of Switzerland ("SBB") based on the percentage-of-completion (units-of-delivery) method of accounting, whereby revenues and estimated average costs of the units to be produced under the contracts are recognized as deliveries are made or accepted. Contract revenues and cost estimates are reviewed and revised, at a minimum quarterly, and adjustments are reflected in the accounting period as such amounts are determined. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, for additional information. Accounting for contracts using the percentage-of-completion method requires judgment relative to assessing risks, estimating contract revenues and costs (including estimating any liquidating damages or penalties related to performance) and making assumptions for schedule and technical items. Due to the number of years it may take to complete these contracts and the scope and nature of the work required to be performed on those contracts, estimating total sales and costs at completion is inherently complicated and subject to many variables and, accordingly estimates are subject to change. When adjustments in estimated total contract sales or estimated total costs are required, any changes from prior estimates are recognized in the current period for the inception-to-date effect of such changes. When estimates of total costs to be incurred on a contract, using the percentage-of-completion method, exceed estimates of total sales to be earned, a provision for the entire loss on the contract is recorded in the period in which the loss is determined. Services are predominantly on a long-term, time-and-materials contract basis. Revenue is recognized when earned as services are performed within the long-term contracts. Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of the events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company records deferred tax assets to the extent that the Company believes that these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determinations, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial results. In the event the Company was to determine that it would be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be made that would reduce the provision for income taxes. The Company prepares and files tax returns based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations and records its provision for income taxes based on these interpretations. Uncertainties may exist in estimating the Company's tax provisions and in filing tax returns in the many jurisdictions in which the Company operates, and as a result these interpretations may give rise to an uncertain tax position. The tax benefit from an uncertain tax position is recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on its technical merits. Each subsequent period the Company determines if existing or new uncertain tax positions meet a more likely than not recognition threshold and adjust accordingly. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within Income tax expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In general, it is the practice and the intention of the Company to reinvest the undistributed earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries. Should the Company repatriate future earnings, such amounts would become subject to U.S. taxation upon remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances, thereby giving recognition to current tax expense and to international tax credits. The significant assumptions and estimates described in the preceding paragraphs are important contributors to the effective tax rate each year. See Note 11, Income Taxes, for additional information. Accrued Insurance and Loss Reserves The Company retains a significant portion of the risk for U.S. workers' compensation, U.K. employers' liability, automobile, general and product liability losses. During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company recorded insurance expense from continuing operations related to these lines of coverage of $15.0 million , $13.6 million and $19.1 million , respectively. Reserves have been recorded that reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities including claims incurred but not reported. When a recognized liability is covered by third-party insurance, the Company records an insurance claim receivable to reflect the covered liability. Changes in the estimates of the reserves are included in net income (loss) in the period determined. During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company recorded retrospective insurance reserve adjustments that decreased pre-tax insurance expense from continuing operations for self-insured programs by $5.4 million , $8.5 million and $7.0 million , respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the Company has recorded liabilities of $37.1 million and $41.8 million , respectively, related to both asserted as well as unasserted insurance claims. Included in the balances at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were $3.5 million and $3.4 million , respectively, of recognized liabilities covered by insurance carriers. Amounts estimated to be paid within one year have been included in current caption, Insurance liabilities, with the remainder included in non-current caption, Insurance liabilities, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Warranties The Company has recorded product warranty reserves of $6.3 million , $7.8 million and $8.9 million at December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The Company provides for warranties of certain products as they are sold. The following table summarizes the warranty activity for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Warranty reserves, beginning of the year $ 7,844 $ 8,886 $ 9,548 Accruals for warranties issued during the year 6,439 3,656 3,208 Reductions related to pre-existing warranties (5,611 ) (3,042 ) (2,680 ) Warranties paid (2,372 ) (1,629 ) (1,186 ) Other (principally foreign currency translation) (19 ) (27 ) (4 ) Warranty reserves, end of the year $ 6,281 $ 7,844 $ 8,886 Warranty expense and payments are incurred principally in the Harsco Industrial and Harsco Rail Segments. Warranty activity may vary from year to year depending upon the mix of revenues and contractual terms related to product warranties. Foreign Currency Translation The financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries outside the U.S., except for those subsidiaries located in highly inflationary economies and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Resulting translation adjustments are recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account, a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income and expense items are translated at average monthly exchange rates. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations. For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, gains and losses on foreign currency transactions and balance sheet translation adjustments are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations. Financial Instruments and Hedging The Company has operations throughout the world that are exposed to fluctuations in related foreign currencies in the normal course of business. The Company seeks to reduce exposure to foreign currency fluctuations through the use of forward exchange contracts. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes, and it is the Company's policy to prohibit the use of derivatives for speculative purposes. The Company has a Foreign Currency Risk Management Committee that meets periodically to monitor foreign currency risks. The Company executes foreign currency exchange forward contracts to hedge transactions for firm purchase commitments, to hedge variable cash flows of forecasted transactions and for export sales denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts are generally for 90 days or less; however, where appropriate, longer-term contracts may be utilized. For those contracts that are designated as qualified cash flow hedges, gains or losses are recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are reclassified into operations in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects income. The cash flows from these contracts are classified consistent with the cash flows from the transaction being hedged (e.g., the cash flows related to contracts to hedge the purchase of fixed assets are included in cash flows from investing activities, etc.). The Company also enters into certain forward exchange contracts that are not designated as hedges. Gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in operations based on changes in fair market value. For fair value hedges of a firm commitment, the gain or loss on the derivative and the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged firm commitment are recognized currently in operations. See Note 15, Financial Instruments, for additional information. Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share are calculated using the weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, while diluted earnings per share reflect the dilutive effects of stock-based compensation. Dilutive securities are not included in the computation of loss per share when the Company reports a net loss from continuing operations as the impact would be anti-dilutive. All share and per share amounts are restated for any stock splits and stock dividends that occur prior to the issuance of the financial statements. See Note 13, Capital Stock, for additional information. Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Recently Adopted and Recently I

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards The following accounting standards have been adopted in 2016 : On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to reporting extraordinary and unusual items. The changes simplified income statement presentation by eliminating the concept of extraordinary items. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to consolidation. The changes updated consolidation analysis and affected reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs. The changes required that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct reduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. In August 2015, the FASB added guidance about the presentation and subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs associated with line-of-credit arrangements. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes resulted in the reclassification of approximately $10 million in deferred financing costs from Other assets to Long-term debt on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all periods presented. The Company recorded approximately $9 million of additional deferred financing costs, net, during 2016 associated with the Company's debt refinancing. See Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements, for additional information. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to the determination of whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement is determined to include a software license, then the customer accounts for the software license element consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If the arrangement is determined not to contain a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB simplifying the accounting for measurement period adjustments for business combinations. The changes resulted in an acquirer no longer being required to retrospectively reflect adjustments to provisional amounts during the measurement period as if they were recognized as of the acquisition date. Instead the acquirer would record the effect of the change to the provisional amounts during the measurement period in which the adjustment is identified. The changes also required additional disclosure related to such measurement period adjustments. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements; however in the future will have an effect on how the Company reports adjustments to provisional amounts during the measurement period. In August 2014, the FASB issued changes related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The change became effective for the Company for the annual period ending December 31, 2016. The adoption of this change did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued changes to address eight specific cash flow presentation issues with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. The issues identified include: debt prepayments or extinguishment costs; contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (including bank-owned life insurance policies); distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. During the fourth quarter of 2016, Management early adopted these changes. As a result of the adoption, the only change to the Consolidated statement of cash flows is that all cash costs related to the early extinguishment of the 5.75% Senior Notes due 2018 (the “Notes”) are reflected as financing activities, whereas prior to the adoption, some companies classified such costs as operating activities. The adoption of these changes did not have any impact in the previously issued financial statements. The following accounting standards have been issued and become effective for the Company at a future date: In May 2014, the FASB issued changes related to the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The changes clarify the principles for recognizing revenue and develop a common revenue standard. The core principle of the changes is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The changes also require additional disclosures related to revenue recognition. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of these changes by one year, but will permit entities to adopt one year earlier. During 2016, the FASB clarified the implementation guidance for principal versus agent considerations, identifying performance obligations, accounting for intellectual property licenses, collectability, non-cash consideration, the presentation of sales and other similar taxes, introduced practical expedients related to disclosures of remaining performance obligations and other technical corrections and improvements. These changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. Management has not yet finalized its evaluation, but currently believes the most significant impact will be with regard to the timing of revenue recognition associated with the air-cooled heat exchanger product group of the Harsco Industrial Segment and certain equipment sales in the Harsco Rail Segment. The Company currently recognizes revenues on such arrangements upon the completion of the efforts associated with these arrangements, but as a result of these changes, revenue from these arrangements will be recognized over time and increase revenue in earlier periods. Management continues to evaluate the effect of the new standard. In July 2015, the FASB issued changes related to the simplification of the measurement of inventory. The changes require entities to measure most inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value, thereby simplifying the current guidance under which an entity must measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. The changes do not apply to inventories that are measured using either the LIFO method or the retail inventory method. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In November 2015, the FASB issued changes that require deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. The changes apply to all entities that present a classified statement of financial position. The current requirement that deferred tax assets and liabilities of a tax-paying component of an entity be offset and presented as a single amount is not affected. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Had these changes been adopted, the Company's working capital would have decreased by approximately $27 million and $38 million at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. In February 2016, the FASB issued changes in accounting for leases. The changes introduce a lessee model that brings most leases on the balance sheet. The changes also align many of the underlying principles of the new lessor model with those in the FASB’s new revenue recognition standard. Furthermore, the changes address other concerns related to the current leases model such as eliminating the requirement in current guidance for an entity to use bright-line tests in determining lease classification. The changes also require lessors to increase the transparency of their exposure to changes in value of their residual assets and how they manage that exposure. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2019. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on its consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued changes amending the accounting for stock-based compensation and requiring excess tax benefits and shortfalls to be recognized as a component of income tax expense rather than equity. These changes also require excess tax benefits and shortfalls to be presented as an operating activity on the Consolidated statement of cash flows and allows an entity to make an accounting policy election to either estimate expected forfeitures or to account for them as they occur. These changes are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company will adopt these changes in the first quarter of 2017 by recording the cumulative impact of applying these changes to retained earnings, which will be approximately $1 million , related to the Company electing to not estimate forfeitures on stock compensation plans but rather recognize forfeitures as they occur. The inclusion of excess tax benefits and shortfalls as a component of the Company’s income tax expense will increase volatility within the provision for income taxes as the amount of excess tax benefits or deficiencies from stock-based compensation awards are dependent on the Company's stock price at the date an award vests. Had the Company adopted these changes at the beginning of 2016, income tax expense would not have been materially impacted for 2016. In October 2016, the FASB issued changes which eliminate the requirement to defer the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset has been sold to an outside party. Under the new guidance, an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and are to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on its consolidated financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued changes that add or clarify guidance on the classification and presentation of restricted cash in the statement of cash flows. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

Acquisitions and Dispositions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract]
Acquisitions and Dispositions	Acquisitions In January 2014, the Company acquired Hammco Corporation ("Hammco"), a U.S. manufacturer of high specification air-cooled heat exchangers for the natural gas and petrochemical processing markets. Hammco has been included in the results of the Harsco Industrial Segment. In March 2015, the Company acquired Protran Technology ("Protran"), a U.S. designer and producer of safety systems for transportation and industrial applications; and in April 2015, the Company acquired JK Rail Products, LLC ("JK Rail"), a provider of after-market parts for railroad track maintenance. Protran and JK Rail have been included in the results of the Harsco Rail Segment. Inclusion of pro forma financial information for these transactions is not necessary as the acquisitions are immaterial. The purchase price allocations for these acquisitions are final.

Accounts Receivable and Invento

Accounts Receivable and Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts Receivable and Inventories [Abstract]
Accounts Receivable and Inventories	Accounts Receivable and Inventories Accounts receivable consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Trade accounts receivable $ 248,354 $ 280,526 Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts (11,800 ) (25,649 ) Trade accounts receivable, net $ 236,554 $ 254,877 Other receivables (a) $ 21,053 $ 30,395 (a) Other receivables include insurance claim receivables, employee receivables, tax claim receivables and other miscellaneous receivables not included in Trade accounts receivable, net The decrease in Allowance for doubtful accounts in 2016 is due to the write-off of a previously reserved accounts receivable balances. The following table reflects the provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : Years Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable $ (38 ) $ 13,047 $ 9,892 Inventories consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Finished goods $ 26,464 $ 32,586 Work-in-process 22,815 30,959 Contracts-in-process 54,044 55,786 Raw materials and purchased parts 61,450 70,755 Stores and supplies 22,908 26,881 Total inventories $ 187,681 $ 216,967 Valued at lower of cost or market: LIFO basis $ 79,933 $ 102,309 FIFO basis 64,742 64,760 Average cost basis 43,006 49,898 Total inventories $ 187,681 $ 216,967 Inventories valued on the LIFO basis at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were approximately $33 million and $32 million , respectively, less than the amounts of such inventories valued at current costs. During 2016 , as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on a LIFO basis, net income (loss) decreased from that which would have been recorded under the FIFO basis of valuation by $1.3 million . During 2015 there was no significant impact on net income (loss) as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on a LIFO basis. During 2014 , as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on the LIFO basis, net income (loss) decreased from that which would have been recorded under the FIFO basis of valuation by $0.1 million . Contracts-in-process consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Contract costs accumulated to date $ 90,276 $ 55,786 Estimated forward loss provisions for contracts-in-process (b) (36,232 ) — Contracts-in-process (c) $ 54,044 $ 55,786 (b) To the extent that the estimated forward loss provision exceeds accumulated contract costs it is included in Other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2016 this amount totaled $6.7 million . (c) At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the Company has $101.1 million and $82.7 million , respectively, of customer advances related to contracts-in-process. These amounts are included in Advances on contracts on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. During 2016, as a result of increased vendor costs, ongoing discussions with SBB, and increased estimates for commissioning, certification and testing costs, as well as expected settlements with SBB, the Company concluded it will have a loss on the contracts with SBB. The Company recognized an estimated forward loss provision related to the SBB contracts of $45.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 in Costs of products sold on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. There was no estimated forward loss provision at December 31, 2015 or 2014. The estimated forward loss provision represents the Company's best estimate best on currently available information. It is possible that the Company's overall estimate of costs to complete these contracts may increase which would result in an additional estimated forward loss provision at such time, but the Company is unable to estimate any further possible loss or range of loss at December 31, 2016. The Company recognized $0.2 million and $1.9 million of revenue for the contracts with SBB for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, under the percentage-of-completion (units-of-delivery) method. The Company recognized no revenue for the contract with SBB for the year ended December 31, 2014. These revenues did not have a material impact on the Company's gross margins or results of operations for these periods. The Company has not yet recognized any revenue associated with the major equipment deliveries under the contracts with SBB. The majority of the equipment deliveries and related revenue recognition under these contracts are expected in 2017 through 2020.

Equity Method Investments (Note

Equity Method Investments (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Equity Method Investments	Equity Method Investments In November 2013, the Company sold the Company's Harsco Infrastructure Segment into a strategic venture with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R") as part of a transaction that combined the Harsco Infrastructure Segment with Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., which CD&R simultaneously acquired (the "Infrastructure Transaction"). As a result of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company retained an equity interest in Brand Energy & Infrastructure Service, Inc. and Subsidiaries ("Brand" or the "Infrastructure strategic venture") which was accounted for as an equity method investment in accordance with U.S. GAAP. As part of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company was required to make a quarterly payment to the Company's partner in the Infrastructure strategic venture, either (at the Company's election) (i) in cash, with total payments to equal approximately $22 million per year on a pre-tax basis (approximately $15 million per year after-tax), or (ii) in kind, through the transfer of approximately 3% of the Company's ownership interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture on an annual basis (the "unit adjustment liability"). The Company recognized the change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability each period until the Company was no longer required to make these payments or chose not to make these payments. The change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability was a non-cash expense. In March 2016, the Company elected not to make the quarterly cash payments to the Company's partner in the Infrastructure strategic venture for the remainder of 2016. Instead, the Company transferred approximately 3% of its ownership interest in satisfaction of the Company's 2016 obligation related to the unit adjustment liability. As a result of not making the quarterly cash payments for 2016, the Company's ownership interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture decreased by approximately 3% and the value of the unit adjustment liability was updated to reflect this change. Accordingly, the book value of the Company's equity method investment in Brand decreased by $29.4 million and the unit adjustment liability decreased by $19.1 million . The resulting net loss of $10.3 million was recognized in Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. This net loss was a non-cash expense. In September 2016, the Company entered into an Omnibus Agreement with CDR Bullseye Holdings, L.P., Bullseye G.P., LLC, Bullseye Partnership, L.P., Bullseye Holdings, L.P. and Brand Energy & Infrastructure Holdings, Inc. (the “Brand Entities”), pursuant to which the Brand Entities repurchased the Company's remaining approximate 26% interest in Brand. In exchange for the Company's interest, (i) the Company received $145 million in cash, net, and (ii) the requirement for the Company to fund certain obligations to Brand through 2018 were satisfied, the present value of which equaled $20.6 million . In addition, the Company received $1.4 million in accrued but unpaid fees, rent and expenses from the Brand Entities. As a result of the sale, the Company’s obligation to make quarterly payments related to the unit adjustment liability under the terms of a limited partnership agreement that governed the operation of the strategic venture terminated. The Company recognized a loss on the sale of its equity interest in Brand in the amount of $43.5 million which was reflected in Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Company's equity interest in Brand and book value of the equity investment in Brand at December 31, 2015 were approximately 29% and $250.1 million, respectively. The Company's initial underlying equity in the net assets of Brand, upon consummation of the Infrastructure Transaction, was approximately $225 million. The difference between the initial fair value of the Company's equity method investment in Brand and Company's underlying equity in the net assets of Brand was determined to be equity method goodwill and was not amortized. The Company's proportionate share of Brand's net income or loss is recorded one quarter in arrears. Brand's summarized balance sheet information at June 30, 2016 and September 30, 2015 and summarized statement of operations information for the period from October 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016, the year ended September 30, 2015 and the period from November 27, 2013 through September 30, 2014 are summarized as follows: (In thousands) June 30 September 30 Summarized Balance Sheet Information of Brand: Current assets $ 896,933 $ 806,510 Property and equipment , net 884,979 894,537 Other noncurrent assets 1,454,951 1,519,722 Total assets $ 3,236,863 $ 3,220,769 Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt $ 14,402 $ 68,687 Other current liabilities 341,979 397,759 Long-term debt 1,857,162 1,736,081 Other noncurrent liabilities 351,714 383,638 Total liabilities 2,565,257 2,586,165 Equity 671,606 634,604 Total liabilities and equity $ 3,236,863 $ 3,220,769 (In thousands) Period From October 1, 2015 Through June 30 2016 (a) Year Ended September 30 2015 Period From November 27 2013 Through September 30 2014 (b) Summarized Statement of Operations Information of Brand: Net revenues $ 2,333,561 $ 2,976,471 $ 2,559,556 Gross profit 499,005 649,596 559,376 Net income (loss) attributable to Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries 20,756 605 (4,848 ) Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand 5,686 175 (1,595 ) (a) The Company's equity method investment in Brand was sold in September 2016; accordingly equity income (loss) was recorded for the period from October 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016. (b) The Company's equity method investment in Brand began on November 26, 2013; accordingly, there is only approximately ten months of related equity income (loss). The results of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from January 1, 2013 through the date of closing are reported in the Company's results of operations for 2013. For the years ended 2016, 2015 and 2014, the Company recognized $4.7 million , $8.5 million and $9.7 million , respectively, of change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability, exclusive of the fair value adjustment resulting from the decision not to make the quarterly payments in 2016 and the loss related to the sale of the Company's interest, in Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment on the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 included balances related to the unit adjustment liability of $79.9 million in the current and non-current captions, Unit adjustment liability. As a result of the sale of the Company's equity interest in Brand, there were no remaining balances related to the unit adjustment liability at December 31, 2016. A reconciliation of beginning and ending balances related to the unit adjustment liability is included in Note 15, Financial Instruments. Balances related to transactions between the Company and Brand are as follows: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Balances due from Brand $ — $ 1,557 Balances due to Brand — 21,407 The balances between the Company and Brand, at December 31, 2015, related primarily to transition services and the funding of certain transferred defined benefit pension plan obligations through 2018. As part of the Omnibus Agreement, all remaining balances between Brand and the Company were settled through payment.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, Plant and Equipment Property, plant and equipment consist of the following: (In thousands) Estimated Useful Lives December 31 December 31 Land — $ 10,606 $ 10,932 Land improvements 5-20 years 15,032 15,277 Buildings and improvements (a) 5-40 years 185,657 191,356 Machinery and equipment 3-20 years 1,525,156 1,661,914 Uncompleted construction — 21,035 36,990 Gross property, plant and equipment 1,757,486 1,916,469 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,267,231 ) (1,352,434 ) Property, plant and equipment, net $ 490,255 $ 564,035 (a) Buildings and improvements include leasehold improvements that are amortized over the shorter of their useful lives or the initial term of the lease. Included in the amounts are $8.7 million and $16.0 million of property, plant and equipment under capital leases at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill by Segment The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 : (In thousands) Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment Harsco Industrial Segment Harsco Rail Segment Consolidated Totals Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 400,006 $ 6,839 $ 9,310 $ 416,155 Changes to goodwill (493 ) (33 ) 3,490 (a) 2,964 Foreign currency translation (18,752 ) — — (18,752 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 380,761 6,806 12,800 400,367 Changes to goodwill — 33 226 259 Foreign currency translation (18,375 ) — — (18,375 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 362,386 $ 6,839 $ 13,026 $ 382,251 (a) Changes to goodwill in the Harsco Rail Segment relate to the acquisitions of Protran and JK Rail. See Note 3, Acquisitions, for additional information. The Company's methodology for determining reporting unit fair value is described in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Performance of the Company's 2016 annual impairment test did not result in impairment of any of the Company's reporting units. Intangible Assets Intangible assets totaled $41.6 million , net of accumulated amortization of $153.5 million at December 31, 2016 and $53.1 million , net of accumulated amortization of $148.7 million at December 31, 2015 . The following table reflects these intangible assets by major category: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (In thousands) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Customer related $ 146,840 $ 112,610 $ 153,287 $ 111,227 Patents 5,729 5,534 5,882 5,495 Technology related 25,687 25,634 25,559 23,089 Trade names 8,306 4,529 8,303 4,194 Other 8,512 5,200 8,701 4,669 Total $ 195,074 $ 153,507 $ 201,732 $ 148,674 Amortization expense for intangible assets was $7.9 million , $8.8 million and $9.9 million for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The following table shows the estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years based on current intangible assets. (In thousands) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Estimated amortization expense (b) $ 5,000 $ 4,750 $ 4,500 $ 4,250 $ 4,000 (b) These estimated amortization expense amounts do not reflect the potential effect of future foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Debt and Credit Agreements

Debt and Credit Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt and Credit Agreements	Debt and Credit Agreements The Company has a multi-year revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility") that is available for use throughout the world. The following table illustrates the amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility and available credit at December 31, 2016 . December 31, 2016 (In thousands) Facility Limit Outstanding Balance Outstanding Letters of Credit Available Credit Revolving Credit Facility (a U.S.-based program) $ 400,000 $ 98,000 $ 43,549 $ 258,451 On December 2, 2015, the Company entered into (i) an amendment and restatement agreement and (ii) a second amended and restated credit agreement (together, the “Financing Agreements”). The Financing Agreements increased the Company's overall borrowing capacity from $500 million to $600 million by (i) amending and restating the Company’s then existing credit agreement, (ii) establishing a term loan A facility in an initial aggregate principal amount of $250 million , by converting a portion of the outstanding balance under the then existing credit agreement on a dollar-for-dollar basis and (iii) reducing the Revolving Credit Facility limit to $350 million . During September 2016, the Company received approximately $145 million in cash, net, from its sale of its remaining 26% equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture. The Company used these proceeds to repay $85.0 million on the term loan A facility and $60.0 million on the Revolving Credit Facility. Related to the repayment of the term loan A facility, the Company expensed $1.1 million of previously deferred financing costs. In November 2016, the Company entered into a new senior secured credit facility (the “Senior Secured Credit Facility”), consisting of a $400 million Revolving Credit Facility and a $550 million term loan B facility (the "Term Loan Facility"). Upon closing of the Senior Secured Credit Facility, the Company amended and extended the existing Revolving Credit Facility, repaid the existing term loan A facility and redeemed, satisfied and discharged the Notes in accordance with the indenture governing the Notes. As a result, a charge of $35.3 million was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2016 consisting principally of the cost of early extinguishment of the Notes and the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs associated with the Company’s existing Financing Agreements and the Notes, and is reflected in the financing activities section of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as a reduction of long-term debt. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at a rate per annum ranging from 87.5 to 200 basis points over the base rate or 187.5 to 300 basis points over the adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") as defined in the credit agreement governing the Senior Secured Credit Facility (the "Credit Agreement"). Any principal amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility is due and payable on the maturity of the Revolving Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility matures on November 2, 2021. Additionally, upon the completion of the potential sale or separation of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, the Revolving Credit Facility would be reduced, if necessary, to reflect a consolidated net debt to consolidated adjusted EBITDA ratio of 2.5 to 1.0 on a pro-forma basis. Borrowings under the Term Loan Facility bear interest at a rate per annum ranging from 375 to 400 basis points over the base rate or 475 to 500 basis points over the adjusted LIBOR rate, subject to a 1% floor, as defined in the Credit Agreement. The Term Loan Facility requires scheduled quarterly payments, each equal to 0.25% of the original principal amount of the loans under the Term Loan Facility made on the closing date. These payments are reduced by the application of any prepayments, and any remaining balance is due and payable on the maturity of the Term Loan Facility. The Term Loan Facility matures on November 2, 2023. The Credit Agreement requires certain mandatory prepayments of the Term Loan Facility, subject to certain exceptions, based on net cash proceeds of certain sales or distributions of assets, as well as certain casualty and condemnation events, in some cases subject to reinvestment rights and certain other exceptions; net cash proceeds of any issuance of debt, excluded permitted debt issuances; and a percentage of excess cash flow, as defined by the Credit Agreement, during a fiscal year. The Senior Secured Credit Facility imposes certain restrictions including, but not limited to, restrictions as to types and amounts of debt of liens that may be incurred by the Company; limitations on increases in dividend payments and limitations on certain acquisitions by the Company. With respect to the Senior Secured Facility, the obligations of the Company are guaranteed by substantially all of the Company’s current and future wholly-owned domestic subsidiaries (“Guarantors”). All obligations under the Senior Credit Facility, and the guarantees of those obligations, are secured, subject to certain exceptions, by substantially all of the Company’s assets and the assets of the Guarantors. In January 2017, the Company entered into a series of fixed-floating interest rate swaps that cover the period from 2018 through 2021, and had the effect of converting $300 million of the Term Loan Facility from floating-rate to fixed-rate. The fixed rates provided by the swaps replace the adjusted LIBOR rate in the interest calculation, range from 1.65% for 2018 to 2.71% for 2021. At December 31, 2016 , the Company had $648.0 million of borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facility consisting of $550.0 million under the Term Loan Facility and $98.0 million under the Revolving Credit Facility. At December 31, 2016, of these balances $642.5 million was classified as Long-term debt and $5.5 million was classified as Current maturities of long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2015 , the Company had $415.0 million of borrowings under the Financing Agreements consisting of $250.0 million under the term loan A facility and $165.0 million under the Revolving Credit Facility. At December 31, 2015, of these balances $380.5 million was classified as Long-term debt, $22.0 million was classified as Short-term borrowings and $12.5 million was classified as Current maturities of long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Short-term borrowings amounted to $4.3 million and $30.2 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. At December 31, 2016, Short-term borrowings consist primarily of bank overdrafts. At December 31, 2015, Short-term borrowings consist primarily of $22.0 million of Revolving Credit Facility borrowings and bank overdrafts. The weighted-average interest rate for short-term borrowings at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was 6.2% and 4.3% , respectively. Long-term debt consists of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 5.75% notes due May 15, 2018 $ — $ 449,005 Senior Secured Credit Facilities: Term Loan A Facility with an interest rate of 2.9% at December 31, 2015 — 250,000 Term Loan B Facility with an interest rate of 6.0% at December 31, 2016 550,000 Revolving Credit Facility with an average interest rate of 3.6% and 3.2% at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively 98,000 143,000 Other financing payable (including capital leases) in varying amounts due principally through 2017 with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.7% and 5.6% at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively 25,410 38,830 Total debt obligations 673,410 880,835 Less: deferred financing costs (18,597 ) (10,130 ) Total debt obligations, net of deferred financing costs 654,813 870,705 Less: current maturities of long-term debt (25,574 ) (25,084 ) Long-term debt $ 629,239 $ 845,621 The maturities of long-term debt for the four years following December 31, 2017 are as follows: (In thousands) 2018 $ 9,924 2019 6,217 2020 5,664 2021 103,531 Cash payments for interest on debt were $49.6 million , $44.4 million and $44.2 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The Credit Agreement contains a consolidated net debt to consolidated adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") ratio covenant, which is not to exceed 4.0 to 1.0 , and a minimum consolidated adjusted EBITDA to consolidated interest charges ratio covenant, which is not to be less than 3.0 to 1.0 . The consolidated net debt to consolidated adjusted EBITDA ratio covenant is reduced to 3.75 to 1.0 after December 31, 2016 and to 3.5 to 1.0 after December 31, 2017. At December 31, 2016 , the Company was in compliance with these and all other covenants.

Operating Leases

Operating Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Operating Leases	Operating Leases The Company leases certain property and equipment under noncancelable operating leases. Rental expense under such operating leases was $16.9 million , $18.9 million and $19.7 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Future minimum payments under operating leases with noncancelable terms are as follows: (In thousands) 2017 $ 12,482 2018 9,187 2019 7,429 2020 6,434 2021 5,040 After 2021 16,932 Total minimum rentals to be received in the future under noncancelable subleases at December 31, 2016 are $1.1 million .

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans Pension Benefits The Company has defined benefit pension plans covering a substantial number of employees. The defined benefits for salaried employees generally are based on years of service and the employee's level of compensation during specified periods of employment. Defined benefit pension plans covering hourly employees generally provide benefits of stated amounts for each year of service. The multiemployer pension plans ("MEPPs"), in which the Company participates, provide benefits to certain unionized employees. The Company's funding policy for qualified plans is consistent with statutory regulations and customarily equals the amount deducted for income tax purposes. Periodic voluntary contributions are made, as recommended, by the Company's Pension Committee. The Company's policy is to amortize prior service costs of defined benefit pension plans over the average future service period of active plan participants. For most U.S. defined benefit pension plans and a majority of international defined benefit pension plans, accrued service is no longer granted. In place of these plans, the Company has established defined contribution plans providing for the Company to contribute a specified matching amount for participating employees' contributions to the plan. For U.S. employees, this match is made on employee contributions up to 4% of eligible compensation. Additionally, the Company may provide a discretionary contribution for eligible employees. There have been no discretionary contributions provided for the years 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . For non-U.S. employees, this match is up to 6% of eligible compensation with an additional 2% going towards insurance and administrative costs. Net periodic pension cost ("NPPC") for U.S. and international plans for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 is as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Defined benefit pension plans: Service cost $ 3,783 $ 2,889 $ 2,233 $ 1,585 $ 1,648 $ 1,610 Interest cost 10,165 12,357 12,868 26,822 36,282 43,230 Expected return on plan assets (14,402 ) (16,812 ) (16,786 ) (42,979 ) (50,091 ) (49,927 ) Recognized prior service costs 63 81 90 189 188 184 Recognized losses 5,493 4,919 3,352 12,002 16,875 14,102 Settlement/curtailment loss (gain) 276 — — 79 (23 ) 60 Defined benefit pension plan cost (income) 5,378 3,434 1,757 (2,302 ) 4,879 9,259 Multiemployer pension plans 636 853 1,199 1,368 1,463 1,762 Defined contribution plans 3,833 3,921 4,704 5,807 6,765 8,033 Net periodic pension cost $ 9,847 $ 8,208 $ 7,660 $ 4,873 $ 13,107 $ 19,054 The change in the financial status of the defined benefit pension plans and amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 307,390 $ 325,319 $ 900,104 $ 1,049,603 Service cost 3,783 2,889 1,585 1,648 Interest cost 10,165 12,357 26,822 36,282 Plan participants' contributions — — 68 61 Amendments — — — 47 Actuarial (gain) loss 5,223 (14,417 ) 194,469 (85,028 ) Settlements/curtailments — — (1,527 ) (250 ) Benefits paid (20,909 ) (18,758 ) (32,079 ) (38,197 ) Effect of foreign currency — — (137,082 ) (64,062 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 305,652 $ 307,390 $ 952,360 $ 900,104 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 208,870 $ 233,350 $ 755,966 $ 791,045 Actual return on plan assets 15,289 (8,011 ) 105,027 22,602 Employer contributions 2,021 2,289 17,192 27,402 Plan participants' contributions — — 68 61 Settlements/curtailments — — (1,527 ) (250 ) Benefits paid (20,909 ) (18,758 ) (31,485 ) (37,693 ) Effect of foreign currency — — (112,498 ) (47,201 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 205,271 $ 208,870 $ 732,743 $ 755,966 Funded status at end of year $ (100,381 ) $ (98,520 ) $ (219,617 ) $ (144,138 ) Amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for defined benefit pension plans consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Noncurrent assets $ 668 $ 229 $ 1,118 $ 1,229 Current liabilities 2,278 2,072 505 479 Noncurrent liabilities 98,771 96,678 220,230 144,888 Accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax 161,075 162,571 434,868 376,641 Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax, for defined benefit pension plans consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Net actuarial loss $ 161,042 $ 162,475 $ 433,626 $ 375,725 Prior service cost 33 96 1,242 916 Total $ 161,075 $ 162,571 $ 434,868 $ 376,641 The estimated amounts that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into defined benefit pension plan NPPC in 2017 are as follows: (In thousands) U.S. Plans International Plans Net actuarial loss $ 5,701 $ 15,627 Prior service cost 33 175 Total $ 5,734 $ 15,802 The Company's estimate of expected contributions to be paid in 2017 for the U.S. and international defined benefit plans are $6.3 million and $16.6 million , respectively. Future Benefit Payments The expected benefit payments for defined benefit pension plans over the next ten years are as follows: (In millions) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022-2026 U.S. Plans $ 19.8 $ 19.3 $ 19.0 $ 19.0 $ 19.0 $ 95.0 International Plans 32.7 33.6 34.5 35.9 37.4 203.2 Net Periodic Pension Cost and Defined Benefit Pension Obligation Assumptions The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the defined benefit pension plan NPPC for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 were as follows: U.S. Plans December 31 International Plans December 31 Global Weighted-Average December 31 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Discount rates 4.2 % 3.9 % 4.7 % 3.8 % 3.7 % 4.7 % 3.9 % 3.7 % 4.7 % Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets 7.3 % 7.5 % 7.5 % 6.5 % 6.8 % 6.8 % 6.7 % 7.0 % 7.0 % Rates of compensation increase 3.0 % 3.0 % 3.0 % 3.2 % 3.2 % 3.4 % 3.2 % 3.2 % 3.4 % The expected long-term rates of return on defined benefit pension plan assets for the 2017 NPPC are 7.3% for the U.S. plans and 5.9% for the international plans. The expected global long-term rate of return on assets for 2017 is 6.2% . The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the defined benefit pension plan obligations at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans Global Weighted-Average December 31 December 31 December 31 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 Discount rates 4.0 % 4.2 % 2.8 % 3.8 % 3.1 % 3.9 % Rates of compensation increase — % 3.0 % 3.3 % 3.2 % 3.3 % 3.2 % The U.S. discount rate was determined using a yield curve that was produced from a universe containing approximately 70 0 U.S. dollar-denominated, AA-graded corporate bonds, all of which were noncallable (or callable with make-whole provisions), and excluding the1 0% of the bonds with the highest yields and the 1 0% with the lowest yields within each maturity group. The discount rate was then developed as the level-equivalent rate that would produce the same present value as that using spot rates to discount the projected benefit payments. For international plans, the discount rate is aligned to corporate bond yields in the local markets, normally AA-rated corporations. The process and selection seeks to approximate the cash inflows with the timing and amounts of the expected benefit payments. The Company changed the method utilized to estimate the service cost and interest cost components of NPPC for defined benefit pension plans for 2016 and later. The more precise application of discount rates for measuring both service costs and interest costs employs yield curve spot rates on a year-by-year expected cash flow basis, using the same yield curves that the Company has previously used. This change in method represents a change in accounting estimate and has been accounted for in the period of change. This change in method decreased the Company's NPPC by approximately $7 million for 2016, compared to what NPPC would have been under the prior method. Accumulated Benefit Obligation The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 305.7 $ 307.4 $ 946.3 $ 894.8 Defined Benefit Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for defined benefit pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $ 296.7 $ 297.5 $ 913.0 $ 876.9 Accumulated benefit obligation 296.7 297.5 910.0 871.9 Fair value of plan assets 195.6 198.8 694.9 731.6 The asset allocations attributable to the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows: Target Long-Term Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets December 31 U.S. Plans Asset Category 2016 2015 Domestic equity securities 33%-43% 39.7 % 37.2 % International equity securities 14%-24% 18.5 % 18.5 % Fixed income securities 28%-38% 30.9 % 32.6 % Cash and cash equivalents Less than 5% 1.0 % 1.7 % Other (a) 5%-15% 9.9 % 10.0 % (a) Investments within this caption include diversified global asset allocation funds. Defined benefit pension plan assets are allocated among various categories of equities, fixed income securities and cash and cash equivalents with professional investment managers whose performance is actively monitored. The primary investment objective is long-term growth of assets in order to meet present and future benefit obligations. The Company periodically conducts an asset/liability modeling study and accordingly adjusts investments among and within asset categories to ensure the long-term investment strategy is aligned with the profile of benefit obligations. The Company reviews the long-term expected return on asset assumption on a periodic basis taking into account a variety of factors including the historical investment returns achieved over a long-term period, the targeted allocation of plan assets and future expectations based on a model of asset returns for an actively managed portfolio. The model simulates 1,000 different capital market results over 20 years . For both 2017 and 2016 , the expected return-on-asset assumption for U.S. defined benefit pension plans was 7.3% . The U.S. defined benefit pension plans' assets include 450,000 shares of the Company's common stock at both December 31, 2016 and 2015, valued at $6.1 million and $3.5 million , respectively. These shares represented 3.0% and 1.7% of total U.S. plan assets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. There was less than $0.1 million of dividends paid to the U.S. defined benefit pension plan on the Company's common stock during 2016. Dividends paid to the U.S. defined benefit pension plan on the Company's common stock amounted to $0.4 million in 2015 . The asset allocations attributable to the Company's international defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows: International Plans Asset Category Target Long-Term Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets December 31 2016 2015 Equity securities 32.5 % 37.1 % 33.7 % Fixed income securities 42.5 % 43.9 % 43.3 % Cash and cash equivalents — 0.3 % 0.3 % Other (b) 25.0 % 18.7 % 22.7 % (b) Investments within this caption include diversified growth funds, real estate funds and infrastructure funds. International defined benefit pension plan assets at December 31, 2016 in the U.K. defined benefit pension plan amounted to approximately 94% of the international defined benefit pension plan assets. The U.K. plan assets are allocated among various categories of equities, fixed income securities and cash and cash equivalents with professional investment managers whose performance is actively monitored. The primary investment objective is long-term growth of assets in order to meet present and future benefit obligations. The Company periodically conducts asset/liability modeling studies and accordingly adjusts investment amounts within asset categories to ensure the long-term investment strategy is aligned with the profile of benefit obligations. For the international long-term rate of return assumption, the Company considered the current level of expected returns in risk-free investments (primarily government bonds); the historical level of the risk premium associated with other asset classes in which the portfolio is invested; and the expectations for future returns of each asset class and plan expenses. The expected return for each asset class was then weighted based on the target asset allocation to develop the expected long-term rate of return on assets. The 2017 and 2016 , the expected return on asset assumption for the U.K. plan was 5.8% and 6.6% , respectively. The remaining international defined benefit pension plans, with plant assets representing approximately 6% of the international defined benefit pension plan assets, are under the guidance of professional investment managers and have similar investment objectives. The fair values of the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Domestic equities: Common stocks $ 27,339 $ 27,339 $ — Mutual funds—equities 54,102 9,928 44,174 International equities—mutual funds 37,948 37,948 — Fixed income investments: U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities 14,240 — 14,240 Corporate bonds and notes 11,457 11,457 — Mutual funds—bonds 37,745 11,927 25,818 Other—mutual funds 20,346 20,346 — Cash and money market accounts 2,094 2,094 — Total $ 205,271 $ 121,039 $ 84,232 The fair values of the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Domestic equities: Common stocks $ 35,619 $ 35,619 $ — Mutual funds—equities 42,093 11,595 30,498 International equities—mutual funds 38,787 38,787 — Fixed income investments: U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities 15,506 — 15,506 Corporate bonds and notes 12,987 12,987 — Mutual funds—bonds 39,594 12,094 27,500 Other—mutual funds 20,803 20,803 — Cash and money market accounts 3,481 3,481 — Total $ 208,870 $ 135,366 $ 73,504 The fair values of the Company's international defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Equity securities: Mutual funds—equities $ 272,070 $ — $ 272,070 $ — Fixed income investments: Mutual funds—bonds 314,098 — 314,098 — Insurance contracts 7,657 — 7,657 — Other: Real estate funds/limited partnerships 23,714 — 23,714 — Other mutual funds 113,345 — 113,345 — Cash and money market accounts 1,859 1,859 — — Total $ 732,743 $ 1,859 $ 730,884 $ — The fair values of the Company's international defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Equity securities: Mutual funds—equities $ 255,937 $ — $ 255,937 $ — Fixed income investments: Mutual funds—bonds 320,259 — 320,259 — Insurance contracts 7,306 — 7,306 — Other: Real estate funds / limited partnerships 52,313 — 27,951 24,362 Other mutual funds 117,646 — 117,646 — Cash and money market accounts 2,505 2,505 — — Total $ 755,966 $ 2,505 $ 729,099 $ 24,362 The following table summarizes changes in the fair value of Level 3 assets in international defined benefit pension plans for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : Level 3 Asset Changes for the Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Real Estate Limited Partnership: Balance at beginning of year $ 24,362 $ 22,647 $ 20,423 Contributions to partnership — 109 385 Cash distributions received — (10,062 ) (1,614 ) Actual return related to plan assets (2,387 ) 11,668 3,453 Liquidation of investment (21,975 ) — — Balance at end of year $ — $ 24,362 $ 22,647 Following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for the defined benefit pension plans' investments measured at fair value: • Level 1 Fair Value Measurements—Investments in interest-bearing cash are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. The fair values of money market accounts and certain mutual funds are based on quoted net asset values of the shares held by the plan at year-end. The fair values of domestic and international stocks and corporate bonds, notes and convertible debentures are valued at the closing price reported in the active market on which the individual securities are traded. • Level 2 Fair Value Measurements—The fair values of investments in mutual funds for which quoted net asset values in an active market are not available are valued by the investment advisor based on the current market values of the underlying assets of the mutual fund based on information reported by the investment consistent with audited financial statements of the mutual fund. Further information concerning these mutual funds may be obtained from their separate audited financial statements. Investments in U.S. Treasury notes and collateralized securities are valued based on yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings. • Level 3 Fair Value Measurements—Real estate limited partnership interests are valued by the general partners based on the underlying assets. The limited partnership interests are valued using unobservable inputs and have been classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Multiemployer Pension Plans The Company, through the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, contributes to several MEPPs under the terms of collective-bargaining agreements that cover union-represented employees, many of whom are temporary in nature. The Company's total contributions to MEPPs were $2.0 million , $2.5 million and $3.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ (99,939 ) $ 16,169 $ 22,951 International 20,468 18,646 (8,813 ) Total income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) $ (79,471 ) $ 34,815 $ 14,138 Income tax expense as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income tax expense (benefit): Currently payable: U.S. federal $ (4,088 ) $ 408 $ 5,622 U.S. state 365 546 557 International 18,014 23,095 14,569 Total income taxes currently payable 14,291 24,049 20,748 Deferred U.S. federal (8,195 ) 2,651 3,447 Deferred U.S. state 2,238 812 893 Deferred international (1,697 ) 166 5,278 Total income tax expense $ 6,637 $ 27,678 $ 30,366 Cash payments for income taxes were $14.6 million , $18.9 million and $36.0 million for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. A reconciliation of the normal expected statutory U.S. federal income tax expense (benefit) to the actual income tax expense as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal income tax $ (27,815 ) $ 12,185 $ 4,949 U.S. state income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit (355 ) 496 713 U.S. domestic manufacturing deductions and credits (661 ) (2,504 ) (1,882 ) Capital loss on sale of equity interest in Brand with no realizable tax benefit 16,106 — — Difference in effective tax rates on international earnings and remittances 2,006 5,095 4,397 Uncertain tax position contingencies and settlements (1,886 ) 1,416 (5,298 ) Changes in realization on beginning of the year deferred tax assets 1,978 923 2,283 Forward Loss Provisions in SBB Contract with no realizable tax benefits 15,768 — — Restructuring and impairment charges with no realizable tax benefits — 8,508 21,969 U.S. non-deductible expenses 724 874 1,216 (Income) loss related to the Infrastructure Transaction (644 ) 580 2,592 Cumulative effect of change in statutory tax rates/laws (388 ) 340 246 Income (loss) from unconsolidated entities 2,098 62 (587 ) Other, net (294 ) (297 ) (232 ) Total income tax expense $ 6,637 $ 27,678 $ 30,366 At December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company's annual effective income tax rate on income from continuing operations was (8.4)% , 79.5% and 214.8% , respectively. The Company’s international income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) was $20.5 million and $18.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. This includes the estimated forward loss provision related to the SBB contracts of $45.1 million in 2016 and non-recurring impairment charges of $24.3 million in 2015, on which no tax benefit was recognized because the losses occurred in entities where it is not more likely than not that the tax benefit will be realized. The Company’s differences in effective tax rates on international earnings and remittances for 2016 and 2015 was $2.0 million and $5.1 million , respectively. This decrease is primarily due to the change in the mix of earnings between jurisdictions. The above factors together with the non-recurring expiration of statute of limitations for uncertain tax positions in certain jurisdictions and the realization on beginning of year deferred tax assets in 2016 decreased the Company’s total international income tax expense, including discrete items, from $23.3 million in 2015 to $16.3 million in 2016. The Company's loss from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) attributable to the U.S. was $99.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity (loss) attributable to the U.S. of $16.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The loss in 2016 is due principally to the capital loss on the sale of the Company’s equity interest in Brand and the loss on early extinguishment of debt. A valuation allowance of $16.1 million was established for the deferred tax asset resulting from the capital loss on the sale of the Company's equity interest in Brand, because it is not more likely than not that the benefit will be realized in the future. However, the net operating loss created by the loss on early extinguishment of debt will be realized through a carryback to prior years with taxable income. The Company expects to have taxable income in future periods in the U.S. The tax effects of the temporary differences giving rise to the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Asset Liability Asset Liability Depreciation and amortization $ — $ 10,089 $ — $ 11,474 Expense accruals 23,300 — 24,538 — Inventories 6,611 — 5,588 — Provision for receivables 1,015 — 1,049 — Deferred revenue — 1,852 — 1,904 Operating loss carryforwards 80,178 — 77,151 — Foreign tax credit carryforwards 26,347 — 19,199 — Capital loss carryforwards 18,163 — 2,102 — Pensions 74,506 — 66,675 — Currency adjustments 17,597 — 28,589 — Equity investment in Infrastructure strategic venture — — — 10,688 Unit adjustment liability — — 29,491 — Post-retirement benefits 760 — 869 — Stock based compensation 5,812 — 4,790 — Other 7,206 — 3,656 — Subtotal 261,495 11,941 263,697 24,066 Valuation allowance (146,097 ) — (110,680 ) — Total deferred income taxes $ 115,398 $ 11,941 $ 153,017 $ 24,066 The deferred tax asset and liability balances recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Other current assets $ 27,415 $ 38,899 Other assets 78,944 102,914 Other current liabilities 281 767 Deferred income taxes 2,621 12,095 At December 31, 2016 , the tax-effected amount of net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs") totaled $80.2 million . Tax-effected NOLs from international operations are $68.6 million . Of that amount, $56.7 million can be carried forward indefinitely, and $11.9 million will expire at various times between 2017 and 2032. Tax-effected U.S. state NOLs are $11.6 million . Of that amount, $1.4 million expire at various times between 2017 and 2020, $3.6 million expire at various times between 2021 and 2025, $3.3 million expire at various times between 2026 and 2030, and $3.3 million expire at various times between 2031 and 2036. At December 31, 2016 , the tax-effected amount of capital loss carryforwards totaled $18.2 million which expire between 2018 and 2021. The valuation allowances of $146.1 million and $110.7 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, related principally to deferred tax assets for pension liabilities, NOLs, capital losses, foreign currency translation and foreign investment tax credits that are uncertain as to realizability. In 2016, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $16.1 million related to capital loss on sale of the Company's equity interest in Brand, $13.5 million related to estimated forward loss provisions related to the SBB contracts, and current year pension adjustments of $19.2 million recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss. This was partially offset by the reduction from the effects of foreign currency translation adjustments and the decrease related to U.K. and France tax rate changes. In 2015, the Company recorded a net decrease in the valuation allowance of $16.1 million related to pension adjustments recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss, the decrease from foreign currency translation in the amount of $11.5 million and a $6.3 million decrease related to a U.K. tax rate change. This was partially offset by a net increase of $13.2 million related to losses in certain jurisdictions where the Company determined that it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized. The Company has not provided U.S. income taxes on certain non-U.S. subsidiaries' undistributed earnings as such amounts are indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , such earnings were approximately $528 million and $547 million , respectively. It is not practical to determine the deferred income tax liability on these earnings if, in the future, they are remitted to the U.S. because the income tax liability to be incurred, if any, is dependent on circumstances existing when remittance occurs. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalty expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits in income tax expense. During 2016 and 2014 , the Company recognized an income tax benefit of $1.7 million and $2.1 million , respectively, for interest and penalties primarily due to the expiration of statutes of limitation and resolution of examinations. The Company did not recognize any income tax benefit for interest and penalties during 2015. The Company has accrued $1.1 million , $2.8 million and $2.8 million for the payment of interest and penalties at December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 respectively. A reconciliation of the change in the unrecognized income tax benefits balance from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016 is as follows: (In thousands) Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits Deferred Income Tax Benefits Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits, Net of Deferred Income Tax Benefits Balances, January 1, 2014 $ 17,549 $ (198 ) $ 17,351 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) 288 (2 ) 286 Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 156 (55 ) 101 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (3,056 ) — (3,056 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (2,481 ) 143 (2,338 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 12,456 (112 ) 12,344 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) (483 ) (2 ) (485 ) Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 1,249 (4 ) 1,245 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (7,846 ) — (7,846 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (173 ) 59 (114 ) Settlements (42 ) 15 (27 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 5,161 (44 ) 5,117 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) 744 (1 ) 743 Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 358 (14 ) 344 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (837 ) — (837 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (817 ) 27 (790 ) Settlements (27 ) 2 (25 ) Total unrecognized income tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate at December 31, 2016 $ 4,582 $ (30 ) $ 4,552 Included in the other reductions for tax positions related to prior year for 2015 is $7.8 million resulting from the adjustment by a foreign tax authority as a result of tax audit. The unrecognized tax benefit was related to a net operating loss carryforward that carried a full valuation allowance. As a result, the related deferred tax asset was decreased by the same amount. Within the next twelve months, it is reasonably possible that up to $0.9 million of unrecognized income tax benefits will be recognized upon settlement of tax examinations and the expiration of various statutes of limitations. The Company files income tax returns as prescribed by the tax laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S and international income tax examinations by tax authorities through 2010.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Environmental The Company is involved in a number of environmental remediation investigations and cleanups and, along with other companies, has been identified as a "potentially responsible party" for certain waste disposal sites. While each of these matters is subject to various uncertainties, it is probable that the Company will agree to make payments toward funding certain of these activities and it is possible that some of these matters will be decided unfavorably to the Company. The Company has evaluated its potential liability, and its financial exposure is dependent upon such factors as the continuing evolution of environmental laws and regulatory requirements, the availability and application of technology, the allocation of cost among potentially responsible parties, the years of remedial activity required and the remediation methods selected. The Company did not have any material accruals or record any material expenses related to environmental matters during the periods presented. The Company evaluates its liability for future environmental remediation costs on a quarterly basis. Although actual costs to be incurred at identified sites in future periods may vary from the estimates (given inherent uncertainties in evaluating environmental exposures), the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with environmental matters in excess of the amounts accrued would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Brazilian Tax Disputes The Company is involved in a number of tax disputes with federal, state and municipal tax authorities in Brazil. These disputes are at various stages of the legal process, including the administrative review phase and the collection action phase, and include assessments of fixed amounts of principal and penalties, plus interest charges that increase at statutorily determined amounts per month and are assessed on the aggregate amount of the principal and penalties. In addition, the losing party at the collection action or court of appeals phase could be subject to a charge to cover statutorily mandated legal fees, which are generally calculated as a percentage of the total assessed amounts due, inclusive of penalty and interest. A large number of the claims relate to value-added ("ICMS"), services and social security tax disputes. The largest proportion of the assessed amounts relate to ICMS claims filed by the State Revenue Authorities from the State of São Paulo, Brazil (the "SPRA"), encompassing the period from January 2002 to May 2005. In October 2009, the Company received notification of the SPRA's final administrative decision regarding the levying of ICMS in the State of São Paulo in relation to services provided to a customer in the State between January 2004 and May 2005. As of December 31, 2016 , the principal amount of the tax assessment from the SPRA with regard to this case is approximately $2 million , with penalty, interest and fees assessed to date increasing such amount by an additional $23 million . Any change in the aggregate amount since the Company's last Annual Report on Form 10-K, as revised on Form 8-K filed on June 1, 2015, is due to an increase in assessed interest and statutorily mandated legal fees for the year, as well as foreign currency translation. Another ICMS tax case involving the SPRA refers to the tax period from January 2002 to December 2003, and is still pending at the administrative phase, where the aggregate amount assessed by the tax authorities in August 2005 was $7.8 million (the amounts with regard to this claim are valued as of the date of the assessment since it has not yet reached the collection phase), composed of a principal amount of $1.8 million , with penalty and interest assessed through that date increasing such amount by an additional $5.9 million . All such amounts include the effect of foreign currency translation. The Company continues to believe that it is not probable it will incur a loss for these assessments by the SPRA. The Company also continues to believe that sufficient coverage for these claims exists as a result of the Company's customer's indemnification obligations and such customer's pledge of assets in connection with the October 2009 notice, as required by Brazilian law. The Company intends to continue its practice of vigorously defending itself against these tax claims under various alternatives, including judicial appeal. The Company will continue to evaluate its potential liability with regard to these claims on a quarterly basis; however, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of these tax-related disputes in Brazil. No loss provision has been recorded in the Company's consolidated financial statements for the disputes described above because the loss contingency is not deemed probable, and the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with Brazilian tax disputes would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Brazilian Labor Disputes The Company is subject to collective bargaining and individual labor claims in Brazil through the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment which allege, among other things, the Company's failure to pay required amounts for overtime and vacation at certain sites. The Company is vigorously defending itself against these claims; however, litigation is inherently unpredictable, particularly in foreign jurisdictions. While the Company does not currently expect that the ultimate resolution of these claims will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of these labor-related disputes. The Company is continuing to review all known labor claims and as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the Company has established reserves of $7.9 million and $6.9 million , respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for amounts considered to be probable and estimable. As the Company continues to evaluate these claims and takes actions to address them, the amount of established reserves may be impacted. Customer Disputes The Company, through its Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, may, in the normal course of business, become involved in commercial disputes with subcontractors or customers. During the first quarter of 2015, a rail grinder manufactured by the Company's Harsco Rail Segment and operated by a subcontractor caught fire, causing a customer to incur monetary damages. Depending on the cause of the fire and the extent of insurance coverage, the Company's results of operations and cash flows may be impacted in future periods. Although results of operations and cash flows for a given period could be adversely affected by a negative outcome in these or other lawsuits, claims or proceedings, management believes that the ultimate outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Lima Refinery Litigation On April 8, 2016, Lima Refining Company filed a lawsuit against the Company in the District Court of Harris County, Texas related to a January 2015 explosion at an oil refinery operated by Lima Refining Company. The action seeks approximately more than $106 million in property damages and approximately $289 million in lost profits and business interruption damages. The action alleges the explosion occurred because of a defect in a heat exchange cooler manufactured by Hammco in 2009, prior to the Company’s acquisition of Hammco in 2014. The Company is vigorously contesting the allegations against it both as to liability for the accident and the amount of the claimed damages. As a result, the Company believes the situation will not result in a probable loss. The Company has both an indemnity right from the sellers of Hammco and liability insurance coverage under various primary and excess policies that the Company believes will be available, if necessary, to cover substantially all of any such liability that might ultimately be incurred in the above action. U.K. Health and Safety Executive Matter In the third quarter of 2016, a subsidiary in the Company’s Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, along with one of its customers, was named as a co-defendant in an action brought by the U.K. Health and Safety Executive in the U.K. Crown Court Sitting at Kingston-Upon Hull. The action relates to a fatal accident involving one of the customer’s employees in 2010. The action seeks to levy a fine against the Company. The Company believes that it is not responsible for the accident and is defending the action vigorously. A loss provision related to this action has not been recorded in the Company’s consolidated financial statements, because the Company believes that a loss is not probable. However, if the outcome of the proceedings is unfavorable, the Company does not believe that it would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, result of operations or cash flows. Other The Company is named as one of many defendants (approximately 90 or more in most cases) in legal actions in the U.S. alleging personal injury from exposure to airborne asbestos over the past several decades. In their suits, the plaintiffs have named as defendants, among others, many manufacturers, distributors and installers of numerous types of equipment or products that allegedly contained asbestos. The Company believes that the claims against it are without merit. The Company has never been a producer, manufacturer or processor of asbestos fibers. Any asbestos-containing part of a Company product used in the past was purchased from a supplier and the asbestos encapsulated in other materials such that airborne exposure, if it occurred, was not harmful and is not associated with the types of injuries alleged in the pending actions. At December 31, 2016 , there were 17,090 pending asbestos personal injury actions filed against the Company. Of those actions, 16,757 were filed in the New York Supreme Court (New York County), 111 were filed in other New York State Supreme Court Counties and 222 were filed in courts located in other states. The complaints in most of those actions generally follow a form that contains a standard damages demand of $20 million or $25 million , regardless of the individual plaintiff's alleged medical condition, and without identifying any specific Company product. At December 31, 2016 , 16,742 of the actions filed in New York Supreme Court (New York County) were on the Deferred/Inactive Docket created by the court in December 2002 for all pending and future asbestos actions filed by persons who cannot demonstrate that they have a malignant condition or discernible physical impairment. The remaining 15 cases in New York County are pending on the Active or In Extremis Docket created for plaintiffs who can demonstrate a malignant condition or physical impairment. The Company has liability insurance coverage under various primary and excess policies that the Company believes will be available, if necessary, to substantially cover any liability that might ultimately be incurred in the asbestos actions referred to above. The Company believes that a substantial portion of the costs and expenses of the asbestos actions will be paid by the Company’s insurers. In view of the persistence of asbestos litigation in the U.S., the Company expects to continue to receive additional claims in the future. The Company intends to continue its practice of vigorously defending these claims and cases. At December 31, 2016 , the Company has obtained dismissal in 27,903 cases by stipulation or summary judgment prior to trial. It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of asbestos-related actions in the U.S. due to the unpredictable nature of this litigation, and no loss provision has been recorded in the Company's consolidated financial statements because a loss contingency is not deemed probable or estimable. Despite this uncertainty, and although results of operations and cash flows for a given period could be adversely affected by asbestos-related actions, the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with asbestos litigation would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The Company is subject to various other claims and legal proceedings covering a wide range of matters that arose in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, all such matters are adequately covered by insurance or by established reserves, and, if not so covered, are without merit or are of such kind, or involve such amounts, as would not have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Company. Insurance liabilities are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred for a particular event and the amount of loss associated with the event can be reasonably estimated. Insurance reserves have been estimated based primarily upon actuarial calculations and reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities for ultimate losses, including claims incurred but not reported. Inherent in these estimates are assumptions that are based on the Company's history of claims and losses, a detailed analysis of existing claims with respect to potential value, and current legal and legislative trends. If actual claims differ from those projected by management, changes (either increases or decreases) to insurance reserves may be required and would be recorded through income in the period the change was determined. When a recognized liability is covered by third-party insurance, the Company records an insurance claim receivable to reflect the covered liability. Insurance claim receivables are included in Other receivables on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, for additional information.

Capital Stock

Capital Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Capital Stock	Capital Stock The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of 150,000,000 shares of common stock and 4,000,000 shares of preferred stock, both having a par value of $1.25 per share. The preferred stock is issuable in series with terms as fixed by the Board of Directors (the "Board"). No preferred stock has been issued. Under the Company's Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Agreement (the "Agreement"), the Board authorized and declared a dividend distribution of one right for each share of common stock outstanding on the record date. The rights may only be exercised if, among other things and with certain exceptions, a person or group has acquired 15% or more of the Company's common stock without the prior approval of the Board. Each right entitles the holder to purchase 1/100th share of Harsco Series A Junior Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock at an exercise price of $230 . Once the rights become exercisable, the holder of a right will be entitled, upon payment of the exercise price, to purchase a number of shares of common stock calculated to have a value of two times the exercise price of the right. The rights expire on October 9, 2017 , do not have voting power, and may be redeemed by the Company at a price of $0.001 per right at any time until the 10 th business day following public announcement that a person or group has accumulated 15% or more of the Company's common stock. The Agreement also includes an exchange feature. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 801,750 and 800,944 shares, respectively, of $1.25 par value preferred stock were reserved for issuance upon exercise of the rights. The Company's share repurchase program expired on January 31, 2015. The Board had previously authorized the repurchase of shares of common stock as follows: Shares Authorized for Purchase January 1 Shares Purchased Plan Expiration Shares Authorized for Purchase December 31 2014 2,000,000 150,000 — 1,850,000 2015 1,850,000 596,632 1,253,368 — The following table summarizes the Company's common stock: Shares Issued Treasury Shares (a) Outstanding Shares Outstanding, January 1, 2014 112,198,693 31,519,768 80,678,925 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 65,851 4,418 61,433 Stock appreciation rights exercised 9,213 2,985 6,228 Other stock grants 83,591 20,327 63,264 Treasury shares purchased — 150,000 (150,000 ) Outstanding, December 31, 2014 112,357,348 31,697,498 80,659,850 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 47,954 16,807 31,147 Treasury shares purchased — 596,632 (596,632 ) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 112,405,302 32,310,937 80,094,365 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 94,572 13,974 80,598 Outstanding, December 31, 2016 112,499,874 32,324,911 80,174,963 (a) The Company repurchases shares in connection with the issuance of shares under stock-based compensation programs and in accordance with Board authorized share repurchase programs. The following is a reconciliation of the average shares of common stock used to compute basic earnings per common share to the shares used to compute diluted earnings per common share as shown on the Consolidated Statements of Operations: (In thousands, except per share data) 2016 2015 2014 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders $ (86,336 ) $ 7,168 $ (22,281 ) Weighted-average shares outstanding—basic 80,333 80,234 80,884 Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation — 131 — Weighted-average shares outstanding—diluted 80,333 80,365 80,884 Income (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders: Basic $ (1.07 ) $ 0.09 $ (0.28 ) Diluted $ (1.07 ) $ 0.09 $ (0.28 ) The following average outstanding stock-based compensation units were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect was antidilutive: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock units 810 — 301 Stock options 89 98 188 Stock appreciation rights 1,458 1,142 912 Performance share units 684 278 —

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation The 2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (the "2013 Plan") authorizes the issuance of up to 6,800,000 shares of the Company's common stock for use in paying incentive compensation awards in the form of stock options or other equity awards such as restricted stock, restricted stock units ("RSUs"), stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), or performance share units ("PSUs"). Of the 6,800,000 shares authorized, a maximum of 3,400,000 shares may be issued for awards other than option rights or SARs, as defined in the 2013 Plan. The 2016 Non-Employee Directors' Long-Term Equity Compensation Plan (the "2016 Plan") authorizes the issuance of up to 400,000 shares of the Company's common stock for equity awards. Both plans have been approved by the Company's stockholders. At December 31, 2016 , there were 3,651,413 shares available for granting equity awards under the 2013 Plan, of which 1,779,549 shares were available for awards other than option rights or SARs. At December 31, 2016 , there were 290,002 shares available for granting equity awards under the 2016 Plan. Restricted Stock Units The Company's Board approves the granting of performance-based RSUs as the long-term equity component of director, officer and certain key employee compensation. The RSUs require no payment from the recipient and compensation cost is measured based on the market price of the Company's common stock on the grant date and is generally recorded over the vesting period. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2012, and prior, vested on a pro-rata basis over a three -year period or upon obtainment of specified retirement criteria. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2013, either "cliff" vest at the end of three years or upon obtainment of specified retirement criteria. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2014 and 2015, either "cliff" vest at the end of three years , upon obtainment of specified retirement or years of service criteria. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2016 either vest on a pro-rata basis over three years or upon obtainment of specified retirement or years of service criteria. Upon vesting, each RSU is exchanged for an equal number of shares of the Company's common stock. The vesting period for RSUs granted to non-employee directors is one year, and each RSU is exchanged for an equal number of shares of the Company's common stock following the termination of the participant's service as a director. RSUs do not have an option for cash payment. The following table summarizes RSUs issued and the compensation expense recorded for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : RSUs (a) Weighted Average Fair Value Expense (Dollars in thousands, except per unit) 2016 2015 2014 Directors: 2013 46,287 $ 20.60 $ — $ — $ 318 2014 36,840 $ 24.80 — 311 602 2015 59,985 $ 15.69 314 627 — 2016 109,998 $ 7.00 513 — — Employees: 2011 17,250 $ 23.55 — — 3 2012 141,486 $ 18.75 — (71 ) (b) 151 2013 170,582 $ 20.63 66 87 325 2014 190,832 $ 25.21 669 504 1,114 2015 239,679 $ 16.53 880 919 — 2016 536,773 $ 7.09 995 — — Total $ 3,437 $ 2,377 $ 2,513 (a) Represents number of awards originally issued. (b) Represents the impact of forfeitures during 2015. RSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Non-vested at December 31, 2015 438,358 $ 19.12 Granted 646,771 $ 7.08 Vested (102,256 ) $ 17.65 Forfeited (55,791 ) $ 13.90 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 927,082 $ 11.19 At December 31, 2016 , the total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested RSUs was $4.0 million , which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years. There was a $1.1 million decrease in excess tax benefits from RSUs recognized in 2016. There was no change in excess tax benefits from RSUs recognized in 2015 and 2014. Stock Appreciation Rights The Company may grant SARs to officers and certain key employees under the 2013 Plan. The SARs generally vest on a pro-rata basis from one to five years from the grant date or upon specified retirement or years of service criteria, and expire no later than ten years after the grant date. The exercise price of the SARs is the fair value on the grant date. Upon exercise, shares of Company's common stock are issued based on the increase in the fair value of the Company's common stock over the exercise price of the SAR. SARs do not have an option for cash payment. During 2014, the Company issued SARs covering 51,900 shares in April, 255,090 shares in May, 31,405 shares in July, 84,290 shares in August, 15,808 shares in September and 12,401 shares in November under the 2013 Plan. During 2015, the Company issued SARs covering 532,615 shares in May under the 2013 Plan. During 2016, the Company issued SARS covering 554,719 shares in May, and 21,686 shares in November under the 2013 Plan. The fair value of each SAR grant was estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes pricing model with the following assumptions: Risk-free Interest rate Dividend Yield Expected Life (Years) Volatility SAR Grant Price Fair Value of SAR May 2013 Grant 1.17 % 3.61 % 6.5 44.1 % $ 22.70 $ 6.86 June 2013 Grant 1.41 % 3.56 % 6.5 44.1 % $ 23.03 $ 7.07 November 2013 Grant 1.91 % 3.13 % 6.5 43.8 % $ 26.22 $ 8.60 April 2014 Grant 1.98 % 3.53 % 6.0 44.3 % $ 23.25 $ 7.25 May 2014 Grant (1st) 1.90 % 3.16 % 6.0 43.2 % $ 25.93 $ 8.16 May 2014 Grant (2nd) 1.82 % 3.05 % 6.0 42.8 % $ 26.92 $ 8.47 July 2014 Grant 2.00 % 3.24 % 6.0 41.2 % $ 25.27 $ 7.55 August 2014 Grant 1.92 % 3.27 % 6.0 41.2 % $ 25.11 $ 7.46 September 2014 Grant 2.03 % 3.50 % 6.0 40.6 % $ 23.43 $ 6.72 November 2014 Grant 1.78 % 4.00 % 6.0 38.6 % $ 20.48 $ 5.17 May 2015 Grant 1.70 % 4.96 % 6.0 35.8 % $ 16.53 $ 3.39 May 2016 Grant 1.39 % — % 6.0 42.1 % $ 7.00 $ 2.93 November 2016 Grant 1.74 % — % 6.0 43.8 % $ 12.25 $ 5.38 SARs activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions) (c) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 1,100,410 $ 20.55 $ — Granted 576,405 $ 7.20 Forfeited/Expired (140,942 ) $ 17.58 Outstanding, December 31, 2016 1,535,873 $ 15.81 $ 3.4 (c) Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those SARs where the market price exceeds the exercise price. No SARs were exercised in 2016 and 2015 . The total intrinsic value of SARs exercised in 2014 was $0.2 million . The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable SARs at December 31, 2016 : SARs Outstanding SARs Exercisable Range of exercisable prices Vested Non-vested Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Number Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share $7.00 - $12.25 — 538,862 $ 7.21 9.36 — $ — $16.53 - $22.70 274,632 414,447 $ 18.44 7.56 274,632 $ 18.53 $23.03 - $26.92 246,717 61,215 $ 25.00 7.41 246,717 $ 25.18 521,349 1,014,524 $ 15.81 7.81 521,349 $ 21.68 Total compensation expense related to SARs was $1.7 million , $1.2 million and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014, respectively. At December 31, 2016 , outstanding SARs have a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 7.81 years and $3.4 million of intrinsic value. Vested and currently exercisable SARs have a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 7.50 years and no aggregate intrinsic value as the exercise price for all vested and exercisable SARs exceeds the current market value. At December 31, 2016 , total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested SARs was $2.5 million , which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years. Weighted-average grant date fair value of non-vested SARs for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested shares, December 31, 2015 852,099 $ 5.04 Granted 576,405 $ 3.02 Vested (328,965 ) $ 5.40 Forfeited (85,015 ) $ 4.28 Non-vested shares, December 31, 2016 1,014,524 $ 3.84 Performance Share Units Beginning in 2014, the Company granted PSUs to officers and certain key employees that may be earned based on the Company's total shareholder return over the three -year performance period. PSUs are paid out at the end of each performance period based on the Company’s performance, which is measured by determining the percentile rank of the total shareholder return of the Company's common stock in relation to the total shareholder return of a specific peer group of companies. For PSUs issued in 2014 and 2015, the peer group of companies utilized was the S&P Midcap 400 Index. For PSUs issued in 2016, the peer group of companies utilized is the S&P 600 Industrial Index. The payment of PSUs following the performance period will be based in accordance with the scale set forth in the PSU agreements, and may range from 0% to 200% of the initial grant. PSUs do not have an option for cash payment. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted 15,700 shares in April, 82,526 shares in May, 11,487 shares in July, 26,550 shares in August, 4,980 shares in September and 3,906 shares in November under the 2013 Plan. During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company granted 237,063 shares in May under the 2013 Plan. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company granted 527,249 shares in May and 9,524 shares in November under the 2013 plan. The fair value of PSUs granted was estimated on the grant date using a Monte Carlo pricing model with the following assumptions: Risk-free Interest rate Dividend Yield Expected Life (Years) Volatility Fair Value of PSU April 2014 Grant 0.75 % — % 2.73 34.3 % $ 18.00 May 2014 Grant (1st) 0.70 % — % 2.65 31.8 % $ 25.26 May 2014 Grant (2nd) 0.63 % — % 2.61 30.1 % $ 27.53 July 2014 Grant 0.74 % — % 2.42 26.9 % $ 22.31 August 2014 Grant 0.67 % — % 2.42 26.9 % $ 21.86 September 2014 Grant 0.72 % — % 2.29 25.7 % $ 15.26 November 2014 Grant 0.55 % — % 2.10 26.3 % $ 7.42 May 2015 Grant 0.83 % — % 2.65 28.5 % $ 14.48 May 2016 Grant 0.84 % — % 2.65 33.3 % $ 7.19 November 2016 Grant 0.96 % — % 2.14 35.2 % $ 17.84 Total compensation expense related to PSUs was $2.5 million , $1.4 million and $0.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. At December 31, 2016 , total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested PSUs was $3.3 million , which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.7 years. A summary of the Company's non-vested PSU activity during the years ending December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested shares, December 31, 2015 315,212 $ 16.94 Granted 536,773 $ 7.38 Forfeited (63,217 ) $ 12.78 Cancellations (d) (96,206 ) $ 21.69 Non-vested shares, December 31, 2016 692,562 $ 9.25 (d) The measurement period for PSUs issued in 2014 ended on December 31, 2016. The Company's total shareholder return compared to the peer group of companies resulted in no shares being issued because no PSUs were earned. Stock Options The Company may grant incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options to officers, certain key employees and non-employee directors under the plans noted above. The stock options would generally vest three years from the grant date, which is the date the Board approved the grants, and expire no later than seven years after the grant date. The exercise price of the stock option would be fair value on the grant date. Upon exercise, a new share of Company common stock is issued for each stock option. Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)(e) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 90,000 $ 31.75 $ — Forfeited/Expired (35,000 ) $ 31.75 $ — Outstanding, December 31, 2016 55,000 $ 31.75 $ — (e) Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those options where the market price exceeds the exercise price. There was no compensation expense related to stock options in 2016 and 2015. Compensation expense related to stock options totaled less than $0.1 million in 2014. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock options. There were no stock options exercised and no net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options in 2016, 2015 and 2014. The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options at December 31, 2016 : Stock Options Outstanding Stock Options Exercisable Range of Exercisable Prices Vested Non-vested Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share $31.75 - $31.75 55,000 — $ 31.75 1.1 55,000 $ 31.75 During 2014, the Company issued 27,672 common shares to the Interim Chief Executive Officer as part of his compensation agreement. These shares vested immediately and were not subject to any holding period restrictions. The fair value of these other stock grants were based on the market price of the Company's stock at the grant date. Expense recognized in 2014 for these other stock grants totaled $0.7 million . In addition, 55,919 common shares were issued to other officers and key employees to settle previous fully-vested liability-based long-term incentive award programs.

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments Off-Balance Sheet Risk As collateral for the Company's performance and to insurers, the Company is contingently liable under standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees in the amounts of $273.1 million , $232.5 million and $269.4 million at December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The increase at December 31, 2016 primarily relates to letters of credit and issuance of surety bonds related to the SBB rail order in the Harsco Rail Segment. The decrease at December 31, 2015 primarily relates to the expiration of several guarantees and lower negotiated amounts for certain insurance letters of credit. These standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees are generally in force for up to 3 years . Certain issues have no scheduled expiration date. The Company pays fees to various banks and insurance companies that range from 0.4% to 3.5% per annum of the instrument's face value. If the Company were required to obtain replacement standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees at December 31, 2016 for those currently outstanding, it is the Company's opinion that the replacement costs would be within the present fee structure. The Company has currency exposures in approximately 30 countries. The Company's primary foreign currency exposures during 2016 were in the European Union, the U.K. and Brazil. Off-Balance Sheet Risk—Third-Party Guarantees During June 2014, the Company provided a guarantee to Brand as part of the net working capital settlement related to the Infrastructure Transaction, for certain matters occurring prior to closing. The remaining term of this guarantee is four years at December 31, 2016 . The maximum potential amount of future payments related to this guarantee is approximately $3 million at December 31, 2016 . There is no recognition of this potential future payment in the consolidated financial statements as the Company believes the potential for making this payment is remote. The Company provided an environmental indemnification for property from a lease that terminated in 2006. The term of this guarantee is indefinite, and the Company would be required to perform under the guarantee only if an environmental matter was discovered on the property relating to the time the Company leased the property. The Company is not aware of any environmental issues related to this property. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) related to this guarantee is estimated to be $3.0 million at December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . There is no recognition of this potential future payment in the consolidated financial statements as the Company believes the potential for making this payment is remote. Any liabilities related to the Company's obligation to stand ready to act on third-party guarantees are included, Other current liabilities or Other liabilities (as appropriate), on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Any recognition of these liabilities did not have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations for 2016 , 2015 or 2014 . In the normal course of business, legal indemnifications are provided related primarily to the performance of the Company's products and services and patent and trademark infringement of the products and services sold. These indemnifications generally relate to the performance (regarding function, not price) of the respective products or services and therefore no liability is recognized related to the fair value of such guarantees. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities The Company uses derivative instruments, including foreign currency exchange forward contracts and cross-currency interest rate swaps ("CCIRs"), to manage certain foreign currency and interest rate exposures. Derivative instruments are viewed as risk management tools by the Company and are not used for trading or speculative purposes. All derivative instruments are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives used to hedge foreign currency denominated balance sheet items are reported directly in earnings along with offsetting transaction gains and losses on the items being hedged. Derivatives used to hedge forecasted cash flows associated with foreign currency commitments or forecasted commodity purchases may be accounted for as cash flow hedges, as deemed appropriate, if the criteria for hedge accounting are met. Gains and losses on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are deferred in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, a separate component of equity, and reclassified to earnings in a manner that matches the timing of the earnings impact of the hedged transactions. Generally, at December 31, 2016 , deferred gains and losses related to asset purchases are reclassified to earnings over 10 to 15 years from the balance sheet date and those related to revenue are deferred until the revenue is recognized. The ineffective portion of all hedges, if any, is recognized currently in earnings. The fair value of outstanding derivative contracts recorded as assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value December 31, 2016 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 473 Other current liabilities $ 166 Cross-currency interest rate swaps Other current assets 514 — Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments $ 987 $ 166 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments : Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 4,459 Other current liabilities $ 3,372 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value December 31, 2015 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 1,640 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps Other assets 15,417 — Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments $ 17,057 $ — Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 4,188 Other current liabilities $ 1,738 All of the Company's derivatives are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at gross amounts and not offset. All of the Company's CCIRs and certain foreign currency exchange forward contracts are transacted under International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA") documentation. Each ISDA master agreement permits the net settlement of amounts owed in the event of default. The Company's derivative assets and liabilities subject to enforceable master netting arrangements did not result in a net asset or net liability at either December 31, 2016 or 2015 . The effect of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was as follows: Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments (In thousands) Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income ("OCI") on Derivative—Effective Portion Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income—Effective Portion Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income—Effective Portion Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative—Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative—Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2016: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 1,884 Cost of services and products sold $ 410 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps (1,549 ) — Cost of services and products sold 4,042 (a) $ 335 $ 410 $ 4,042 Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 2,532 Cost of services and products sold $ 53 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps 9,012 — Cost of services and products sold 30,359 (a) $ 11,544 $ 53 $ 30,359 Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 358 Cost of services and products sold $ 4 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps (1,977 ) — Cost of services and products sold 39,823 (a) $ (1,619 ) $ 4 $ 39,823 (a) These gains (losses) offset foreign currency fluctuation effects on the debt principal. Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Location of Loss Recognized in Income on Derivative Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative for the Twelve Months Ended December 31(b) (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Cost of services and products sold $ 15,875 $ (158 ) $ (2,307 ) (b) These gains (losses) offset amounts recognized in cost of service and products sold principally as a result of intercompany or third-party foreign currency exposures. Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts The Company conducts business in multiple currencies and, accordingly, is subject to the inherent risks associated with foreign exchange rate movements. The financial position and results of operations of substantially all of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates, and income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates during the respective periods. The aggregate effects of translating the balance sheets of these subsidiaries are deferred and recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is a separate component of equity. The Company uses derivative instruments to hedge cash flows related to foreign currency fluctuations. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts outstanding are part of a worldwide program to minimize foreign currency exchange operating income and balance sheet exposure by offsetting foreign currency exposures of certain future payments between the Company and various subsidiaries, suppliers or customers. The unsecured contracts are with major financial institutions. The Company may be exposed to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the contract counterparties. The Company evaluates the creditworthiness of the counterparties and does not expect default by them. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts are used to hedge commitments, such as foreign currency debt, firm purchase commitments and foreign currency cash flows for certain export sales transactions. The following tables summarize, by major currency, the contractual amounts of the Company's foreign currency exchange forward contracts in U.S. dollars at December 31, 2016 and 2015 . The "Buy" amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of commitments to purchase foreign currencies, and the "Sell" amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of commitments to sell foreign currencies. The recognized gains and losses offset amounts recognized in cost of services and products sold principally as a result of intercompany or third-party foreign currency exposures. Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2016 : (In thousands) Type U.S. Dollar Equivalent Maturity Recognized Gain (Loss) British pounds sterling Sell $ 55,120 January 2017 $ (228 ) British pounds sterling Buy 827 March 2017 (14 ) Euros Sell 326,797 January 2017 through December 2017 628 Euros Buy 171,578 January 2017 through January 2018 (468 ) Other currencies Sell 43,455 January 2017 through September 2017 1,477 Other currencies Buy 3,106 March 2017 (1 ) Total $ 600,883 $ 1,394 Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2015 : (In thousands) Type U.S. Dollar Equivalent Maturity Recognized Gain (Loss) British pounds sterling Sell $ 43,511 January 2016 $ 822 British pounds sterling Buy 2,062 January 2016 (54 ) Euros Sell 336,397 January 2016 through December 2016 547 Euros Buy 167,037 January 2016 through August 2016 2,497 Other currencies Sell 35,426 January 2016 through March 2016 316 Other currencies Buy 7,981 January 2016 (38 ) Total $ 592,414 $ 4,090 In addition to foreign currency exchange forward contracts, the Company designates certain loans as hedges of net investments in international subsidiaries. The Company recorded pre-tax net losses of $37.5 million , pre-tax net gains of $2.7 million and pre-tax net gains of $22.6 million related to hedges of net investments during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, in Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Cross-Currency Interest Rate Swaps The Company uses CCIRs in conjunction with certain debt issuances in order to secure a fixed local currency interest rate. Under these CCIRs, the Company receives interest based on a fixed or floating U.S. dollar rate and pays interest on a fixed local currency rate based on the contractual amounts in dollars and the local currency, respectively. At maturity, there is also the payment of principal amounts between currencies. The CCIRs are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, with changes in value attributed to the effect of the swaps' interest spread and changes in the credit worthiness of the counter-parties recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Changes in value attributed to the effect of foreign currency fluctuations are recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and offset currency fluctuation effects on the debt principal. The following table indicates the contractual amounts of the Company's CCIRs: Contractual Amounts Interest Rates (In millions) Receive Pay Maturing 2017 $ 2.7 Floating U.S. dollar rate Fixed rupee rate During March 2016, the Company effected the early termination of the British pound sterling CCIR with an original maturity date of 2020. The Company received $16.6 million in cash related to this termination. During August 2015, the Company effected the early termination of the euro CCIR with an original maturity date of 2018. The Company received $75.1 million in cash related to this termination. Euro denominated foreign currency exchange forward contracts were entered into later in 2015 that provide similar protection from changes in foreign exchange rates to the terminated CCIR contract. There was no gain or loss recorded on these terminations as any change in value attributable to the effect of foreign currency translation was previously recognized on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities and Other Financial Instruments Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). The Company utilizes market data or assumptions that the Company believes market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below: • Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. • Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (e.g., interest rates); and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. • Level 3—Inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable. In instances in which multiple levels of inputs are used to measure fair value, hierarchy classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. The following table indicates the fair value hierarchy of the financial instruments of the Company at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : Level 2 Fair Value Measurements December 31 December 31 Assets Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 4,932 $ 5,828 Cross-currency interest rate swaps 514 15,417 Liabilities Foreign-currency forward exchange contracts 3,538 1,738 The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances for liabilities measured on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 : Level 3 Liabilities—Unit Adjustment Liability (c) for the Twelve Months Ended December 31 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of year $ 79,934 $ 93,762 Reduction in the fair value related to election not to make 2016 payments (19,145 ) — Sale of equity interest in Brand (65,461 ) — Payments — (22,320 ) Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability 4,672 8,491 Balance at end of year $ — $ 79,934 (d) (c) See Note 5, Equity Method Investments, for additional information. (d) Does not total due to rounding. The Company primarily applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavors to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs, such as forward rates, interest rates, the Company's credit risk and counterparties' credit risks, and which minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The Company is able to classify fair value balances based on the ability to observe those inputs. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts and CCIRs are classified as Level 2 fair value based upon pricing models using market-based inputs. Model inputs can be verified, and valuation techniques do not involve significant management judgment. The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and short-term borrowings approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these assets and liabilities. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the total fair value of long-term debt, including current maturities, was $682.9 million and $834.6 million , respectively, compared with a carrying value of $673.4 million and $880.8 million , respectively. Fair values for debt are based on quoted market prices (Level 1) for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturities. Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company places cash and cash equivalents with high-quality financial institutions and, by policy, limits the amount of credit exposure to any single institution. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable are generally limited in the Harsco Industrial Segments. However, the Company's Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and, to a lesser extent, the Harsco Rail Segment have several large customers throughout the world with significant accounts receivable balances. Consolidation in the global steel or rail industries could result in an increase in concentration of credit risk for the Company. The Company generally does not require collateral or other security to support customer receivables. If a receivable from one or more of the Company's larger customers becomes uncollectible, it could have a material effect on the Company's results of operations or cash flows.

Information by Segment and Geog

Information by Segment and Geographic Area	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Information by Segment and Geographic Area	Information by Segment and Geographic Area The Company reports information about operating segments using the "management approach," which is based on the way management organizes and reports the segments within the enterprise for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Company's reportable segments are identified based upon differences in products, services and markets served. In 2016 , the Company had three reportable segments. These segments and the types of products and services offered include the following: Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment Global expertise in providing on-site services for material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery from iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products. Major customers include steel mills and asphalt roofing manufacturers. Harsco Industrial Segment Major products include air-cooled heat exchangers; industrial grating; high-security fencing and boilers and water heaters. Major customers include industrial plants and the non-residential, commercial and public construction and retrofit markets; and the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries. Harsco Rail Segment This Segment manufactures railway track maintenance equipment and provides track maintenance services. The major customers include private and government-owned railroads and urban mass transit systems worldwide. Other Information The measurement basis of segment profit or loss is operating income (loss). There are no significant inter-segment sales. Corporate assets, at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , include principally cash, prepaid taxes, fair value of derivative instruments and U.S. deferred income taxes. In addition, Corporate assets at December 31, 2015 included the Company's equity method investment in Brand. Countries with revenues from unaffiliated customers or net property, plant and equipment of ten percent or more of the consolidated totals (in at least one period presented) are as follows: Information by Geographic Area (a) Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers Year Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 614,327 $ 758,820 $ 880,884 U.K. 156,552 217,011 257,885 All Other 680,344 747,261 927,519 Totals including Corporate $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288 (a) Revenues are attributed to individual countries based on the location of the facility generating the revenue. Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Balances at December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 125,386 $ 142,506 $ 151,397 China 90,288 97,305 102,842 Brazil 62,597 57,381 69,515 All Other 211,984 266,843 339,490 Totals including Corporate $ 490,255 $ 564,035 $ 663,244 No single customer provided in excess of 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . In 2016 , the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment had one customer and in 2015 and 2014 two customers that each provided in excess of 10% of this Segment's revenues under multiple long-term contracts at several mill sites. Should additional consolidations occur involving some of the steel industry's larger companies which are customers of the Company, it would result in an increase in concentration of credit risk for the Company. The loss of any one of the contracts would not have a material adverse effect upon the Company's financial position or cash flows; however, it could have a significant effect on quarterly or annual results of operations. In 2016 , the Harsco Industrial Segment had no customers, in 2015 two customers and in 2014 one customer that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. In 2016 and 2014 , the Harsco Rail Segment had one customer; and in 2015 two customers that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. The loss of any of these customers would not have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial positions or cash flows; however, it could have a material effect on quarterly or annual results of operations. Operating Information by Segment: Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Revenues Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 965,540 $ 1,106,162 $ 1,378,142 Harsco Industrial 247,542 357,256 412,532 Harsco Rail 238,107 259,674 275,614 Corporate 34 — — Total Revenues $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288 Operating Income (Loss) Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 81,634 $ 26,289 $ 13,771 Harsco Industrial 23,182 57,020 64,114 Harsco Rail (17,527 ) 50,896 37,137 Corporate (23,820 ) (45,669 ) (45,735 ) Total Operating Income (Loss) $ 63,469 $ 88,536 $ 69,287 Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Total Assets Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 1,181,755 $ 1,294,673 $ 1,476,538 Harsco Industrial 107,987 119,830 127,591 Harsco Rail 204,477 219,753 169,035 Corporate 87,167 426,941 493,782 Total Assets $ 1,581,386 $ 2,061,197 $ 2,266,946 Depreciation and Amortization Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 120,611 $ 136,579 $ 159,844 Harsco Industrial 7,223 6,266 4,928 Harsco Rail 5,383 6,093 5,591 Corporate 8,269 7,537 5,963 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 141,486 $ 156,475 $ 176,326 Capital Expenditures Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 62,322 $ 99,563 $ 187,665 Harsco Industrial 5,118 17,382 9,298 Harsco Rail 1,696 1,957 3,120 Corporate 204 4,650 8,776 Total Capital Expenditures $ 69,340 $ 123,552 $ 208,859 Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Consolidated Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Income (Loss): Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Segment operating income $ 87,289 $ 134,205 $ 115,022 General Corporate expense (23,820 ) (45,669 ) (45,735 ) Operating income from continuing operations 63,469 88,536 69,287 Interest income 2,475 1,574 1,702 Interest expense (51,584 ) (46,804 ) (47,111 ) Loss on early extinguishment of debt (35,337 ) — — Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment (58,494 ) (8,491 ) (9,740 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) $ (79,471 ) $ 34,815 $ 14,138 Information about Products and Services: Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Key Product and Services Groups Global expertise in providing on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products $ 965,540 $ 1,106,162 $ 1,378,142 Railway track maintenance services and equipment 238,107 259,674 275,614 Industrial grating and fencing products 115,914 129,869 139,711 Air-cooled heat exchangers 93,616 186,243 226,529 Heat transfer products 38,012 41,144 46,292 General Corporate 34 — — Consolidated Revenues $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288

Other Expenses

Other Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Other Expenses	Other Expenses During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company recorded pre-tax other expenses from continuing operations of $12.6 million , $30.6 million and $57.8 million , respectively. The major components of this Consolidated Statements of Operations caption are as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net gains $ (1,764 ) $ (10,613 ) $ (6,718 ) Employee termination benefit costs 10,777 14,914 19,120 Other costs to exit activities 440 13,451 4,908 Impaired asset write-downs 399 8,170 39,455 Foreign currency gains related to Harsco Rail Segment advances on contracts — (10,940 ) — Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment separation costs 3,235 9,922 — Subcontractor settlement — 4,220 — Other expense (467 ) 1,449 1,059 Total $ 12,620 $ 30,573 $ 57,824 Net Gains Net gains result from the sales of redundant properties (primarily land, buildings and related equipment) and non-core assets. In 2016, gains related to assets sold principally in Western Europe, North America and Latin America. In 2015, gains related to assets sold principally in North America and Latin America. In 2014, gains related to assets sold primarily in North America and Latin America. Net Gains (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ (1,828 ) $ (7,059 ) $ (3,538 ) Harsco Industrial Segment 64 (3,554 ) (2,077 ) Corporate — — (1,103 ) Total $ (1,764 ) $ (10,613 ) $ (6,718 ) Cash proceeds associated with these gains are included in Proceeds from sales of assets, in the cash flows from investing activities section of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Employee Termination Benefit Costs Costs and the related liabilities associated with involuntary termination benefit costs associated with one-time benefit arrangements provided as part of an exit or disposal activity are recognized by the Company when a formal plan for reorganization is approved at the appropriate level of management and communicated to the affected employees. Additionally, costs associated with ongoing benefit arrangements, or in certain countries where statutory requirements dictate a minimum required benefit, are recognized when they are probable and estimable. The employee termination benefits costs in 2016 related principally to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, including a probable site exit and the impact of Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment's Improvement Plan ("Project Orion"), primarily in Western Europe, Latin America and North America. The employee termination benefits costs in 2015 related principally to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, including the impact of Project Orion, primarily in Western Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. Additionally, employee termination benefits costs were incurred at Corporate. The employee termination benefits costs in 2014 related primarily to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, including the impact of Project Orion, primarily in Latin America and Western Europe. Employee Termination Benefit Costs (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 8,491 $ 11,454 $ 18,169 Harsco Industrial Segment 947 561 421 Harsco Rail Segment 297 145 185 Corporate 1,042 2,754 345 Total $ 10,777 $ 14,914 $ 19,120 Other Costs to Exit Activities Costs associated with exit or disposal activities are recognized as follows: • Costs to terminate a contract that is not a capital lease are recognized when an entity terminates the contract or when an entity ceases using the right conveyed by the contract. This includes the costs to terminate the contract before the end of its term or the costs that will continue to be incurred under the contract for its remaining term without economic benefit to the entity (e.g., lease run-out costs). • Other costs associated with exit or disposal activities (e.g., costs to consolidate or close facilities and relocate equipment or employees) are recognized and measured at their fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred. In 2016, $0.4 million of exit costs were incurred, principally in North America and Western Europe. In 2015, $13.5 million of exit costs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, primarily related to the Middle East, North America, Latin America and Western Europe. Other costs to exit activities during 2015 include costs associated with the Company's exit of operations in Bahrain. Over the past several years the Company has been in discussions with officials at the Supreme Council for Environment in Bahrain with regard to a processing by-product ("salt cakes") located at Hafeera. During 2015, the Company completed the assessment of options available for processing or removing the salt cakes. As a result, the Company has entered into a service agreement with a third party for processing the salt cakes and recorded a charge of $7.0 million , payable over five to seven years, related to the estimated cost of processing and disposal. The Company's Bahrain operations are operated under a strategic venture for which its strategic venture partner has a 35% minority interest. Accordingly, the net impact of the charge to the Company's net income (loss) attributable to the Company was $4.6 million . In 2014, $4.9 million of exit costs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, primarily related to North America and Western Europe, partially offset at Corporate by gains from currency translation adjustments recognized in earnings related to historic Harsco Infrastructure Segment entities which were not included as part of the Infrastructure Transaction and retained by the Company. The currency translation adjustments are non-cash items recognized when the Company has substantially liquidated the related investment in a foreign entity. Costs to Exit Activities (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 220 $ 12,638 $ 6,395 Harsco Industrial Segment 40 — — Corporate 180 813 (1,487 ) Total $ 440 $ 13,451 $ 4,908 Impaired Asset Write-downs Impaired asset write-downs are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of assets exceeds their fair value. Fair value is estimated based upon the expected future realizable cash flows including anticipated selling prices. Non-cash impaired asset write-downs are included in, Other, net, on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities. In 2016, $0.4 million , of impaired asset write-downs were incurred principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, mostly in the Asia Pacific region. In 2015, $8.2 million of impaired asset write-downs were incurred in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, mostly in North America, Middle East and Africa and the Asia Pacific region. In 2014, $39.5 million of impaired asset write-downs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and mostly in Western Europe, the Middle East and Africa and the Asia Pacific region as part of Project Orion. Impaired Asset Write-downs (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 399 $ 8,170 $ 38,791 Harsco Industrial Segment — — 74 Harsco Rail Segment — — 590 Total $ 399 $ 8,170 $ 39,455 Foreign Currency Gains Related to Harsco Rail Segment Advances on Contracts In January 2015, the Swiss National Bank ended its policy of maintaining a stable exchange rate between the Swiss franc and the euro. As a result of this change in policy, the Swiss franc experienced significant appreciation against the euro. During 2015, the Company recognized $10.9 million in foreign currency gains primarily related to converting Swiss franc bank deposits to euros. This gain was associated with advances received for the Harsco Rail Segment's two contracts with the SBB. Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment Separation Costs The Company has announced its intention to pursue strategic options for the separation of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment from the rest of the Company. In 2016 and 2015, the Company incurred $3.2 million and $9.9 million of expenses related to the strategic review of this initiative, respectively. Subcontractor Settlement A subcontractor at the site of a large customer in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment had filed arbitration against the Company, claiming that it was owed monetary damages from the Company in connection with its processing certain materials. Additionally, related to this matter, the Company has brought suit against its customer which the Company believed had responsibility for any damages. During 2015, all parties involved reached a binding settlement agreement. The Company recorded a charge of $4.2 million related to its obligations under the settlement agreement.

Components of Accumulated Other

Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss is included on the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity. The components of Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of the effect of income taxes, and activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax (In thousands) Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ (39,938 ) $ (9,025 ) $ (483,278 ) $ (15 ) $ (532,256 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (66,305 ) (a) 9,796 (b) 72,796 (c) (16 ) 16,271 Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee (21,950 ) (1,232 ) 596 — (22,586 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax — 53 20,190 — 20,243 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (88,255 ) 8,617 93,582 (16 ) 13,928 Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 2,632 8 — — 2,640 Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation (85,623 ) 8,625 93,582 (16 ) 16,568 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (125,561 ) $ (400 ) $ (389,696 ) $ (31 ) $ (515,688 ) Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax (In thousands) Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (125,561 ) $ (400 ) $ (389,696 ) $ (31 ) $ (515,688 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (53,301 ) (a) (1,650 ) (b) (86,181 ) (c) 26 (141,106 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax 1,157 (263 ) 16,011 — 16,905 Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment (See Note 5, Equity Method Investments) 28,641 1,636 (1,534 ) — 28,743 Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee 1,943 (405 ) 306 — 1,844 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (21,560 ) (682 ) (71,398 ) 26 (93,614 ) Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 2,587 (7 ) — — 2,580 Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation (18,973 ) (689 ) (71,398 ) 26 (91,034 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (144,534 ) $ (1,089 ) $ (461,094 ) $ (5 ) $ (606,722 ) (a) Principally foreign currency fluctuation. (b) Principally net change from periodic revaluations. (c) Principally changes due to annual actuarial remeasurements. Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for 2016 and 2015 are as follows: Year Ended December 31 2016 Year Ended December 31 2015 Affected Caption on the Consolidated Statements of Operations (In thousands) Amortization of defined benefit pension items (d) : Actuarial losses $ 8,490 $ 15,810 Selling, general and administrative expenses Actuarial losses 9,005 5,984 Cost of services and products sold Prior-service costs (11 ) 121 Selling, general and administrative expenses Prior-service costs 263 148 Cost of services and products sold Settlement/curtailment losses 355 — Selling, general and administrative expenses Total before tax 18,102 22,063 Tax benefit (2,091 ) (1,873 ) Total reclassification of defined benefit pension items, net of tax $ 16,011 $ 20,190 Amortization of cash flow hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ (408 ) $ — Product revenues Foreign currency exchange forward contracts (2 ) 81 Cost of services and products sold Total before tax (410 ) 81 Tax benefit 147 (28 ) Total reclassification of cash flow hedging instruments $ (263 ) $ 53 Recognition of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments: Foreign exchange translation adjustments, before tax $ 1,157 $ — Other expenses Tax benefit — — Total reclassification of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments $ 1,157 $ — (d) These accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of NPPC. See Note 10, Employee Benefit Plans, for additional information. Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment are as follows: (In thousands) Twelve Months Ended Affected Caption on the Consolidated Statements of Operations December 31 Foreign exchange translation adjustments $ 45,405 Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Cash flow hedging instruments 2,593 Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Defined benefit pension obligations (2,433 ) Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Total before tax 45,565 Tax benefit (e) (16,822 ) Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment $ 28,743 (e) For the year ended December 31, 2016 the tax benefit was not recognized on the Consolidated Statement of Operations since a valuation allowance was established against the resulting deferred tax assets. See Note 11, Income Taxes, for additional information.

Restructuring Programs

Restructuring Programs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring Programs	Restructuring Programs In recent years, the Company has instituted restructuring programs to balance short-term profitability goals with long-term strategies. A primary objective of these programs has been to establish platforms upon which the affected businesses can grow with reduced fixed investment and generate annual operating expense savings. The restructuring programs have been instituted in response to the continuing impact of global financial and economic uncertainty on the Company’s end markets. Restructuring costs incurred in these programs were recorded in, Other expenses, of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The timing of associated cash payments is dependent on the type of restructuring cost and can extend over a multi-year period. Project Orion Under Project Orion, the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment made organizational and process improvement changes that are expected to improve its return on capital and deliver a higher and more consistent level of service to customers. These changes include improving several core processes and simplifying the organizational structure. During the fourth quarter of 2015, Project Orion was expanded with additional targeted workforce and operational savings of $20 million to $25 million . The majority of these benefits have been realized in 2016. The restructuring accrual for Project Orion at December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) Employee Termination Benefit Costs Balance January 1, 2015 $ 7,668 Expense incurred 5,070 Other adjustments (1,003 ) Cash expenditures (5,854 ) Foreign currency translation (74 ) Balance, December 31, 2015 5,807 Other adjustments (47 ) Cash expenditures (5,413 ) Foreign currency translation 29 Balance, December 31, 2016 $ 376

SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUAL

SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Continuing Operations (In thousands) COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E Additions Additions (Deductions) Description Balance at Beginning of Period Charged to Cost and Expenses Due to Currency Translation Adjustments Other Balance at End of Period For the year 2016: Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $ 25,649 $ (38 ) $ (320 ) $ (13,491 ) (a) $ 11,800 Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance 110,680 38,490 (6,323 ) 3,250 146,097 For the year 2015: Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $ 15,119 $ 13,047 $ (1,585 ) $ (932 ) $ 25,649 Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance 131,422 13,175 (11,519 ) (22,398 ) (b) 110,680 For the year 2014: Allowance for Doubtful Accounts $ 6,638 $ 9,892 $ (969 ) $ (442 ) $ 15,119 Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance 127,164 24,332 (9,254 ) (10,820 ) 131,422 (a) Includes the write-off of previously reserved accounts receivable balances. (b) Includes a decrease of $16.1 million related to pension adjustments recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and a $6.3 million decrease related to a U.K. tax rate change.

Summary of Significant Accoun30

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation	Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include all accounts of Harsco Corporation (the "Company"), all entities in which the Company has a controlling voting interest and variable interest entities required to be consolidated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("U.S. GAAP"). Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated among consolidated entities.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform with current year classifications.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term investments that are highly liquid in nature and have an original maturity of three months or less.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventories in the U.S. are principally accounted for using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. The Company's remaining inventories are accounted for using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") or average cost methods.
Depreciation	Depreciation Property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets using, principally, the straight-line method. When property, plant and equipment is retired from service, the cost of the retirement is charged to the allowance for depreciation to the extent of the accumulated depreciation and the balance is charged to income. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale are not depreciated while they are classified as held-for-sale.
Leases	Leases The Company leases certain property and equipment under noncancelable lease agreements. All lease agreements are evaluated and classified as either an operating or capital lease in accordance with U.S. GAAP. A lease is classified as a capital lease if any of the following criteria are met: transfer of ownership to the Company by the end of the lease term; the lease contains a bargain purchase option; the lease term is equal to or greater than 75% of the asset's economic life; or the present value of future minimum lease payments is equal to or greater than 90% of the asset's fair market value. Operating lease expense is recognized ratably over the lease term, including rent abatement periods and rent holidays.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist, or if a decision is made to dispose of a business. Goodwill is allocated among and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below for which discrete financial information is available. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include declining cash flows or operating losses at the reporting unit level, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, or a more likely than not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed of, among others. The Company performs the annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1 . The Company has five reporting units, only three of which have goodwill associated with them as of December 31, 2016 . Almost all of the Company's goodwill is included in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment. The evaluation of potential goodwill impairment involves comparing the current fair value of each reporting unit to the net book value, including goodwill. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model (“DCF model”) to estimate the current fair value of reporting units, as management believes forecasted operating cash flows are the best indicator of current fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the preparation of DCF models including future revenues and operating margin growth, the weighted-average cost of capital (“WACC”), tax rates, capital spending, pension funding, the impact of business initiatives, and working capital projections. These assumptions and estimates may vary significantly among reporting units. DCF models are based on approved long-range plans for the early years and historical relationships and projections for later years. WACC rates are derived from internal and external factors including, but not limited to, the average market price of the Company's stock, shares outstanding, book value of the Company's debt, the long-term risk free interest rate, and both market and size-specific risk premiums. Due to the many variables noted above and the relative size of the Company's goodwill, differences in assumptions may have a material impact on the results of the Company's annual goodwill impairment testing. If the net book value of a reporting unit were to exceed the current fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test would currently be required to determine if an impairment existed and the amount of goodwill impairment to record, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the net book value of a reporting unit's goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill represents the excess of fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit if it were to be acquired in a hypothetical business combination and the current fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. As necessary, the Company may use valuation experts to assist with the second step of the goodwill impairment test.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Other than Goodwill)	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Other than Goodwill) Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate the book value of an asset may be impaired. The Company's policy is to determine if an impairment loss exists when it is determined that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the sum of the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from use of the asset, and its eventual disposition. Impairment losses are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, normally as determined in either open market transactions or through the use of a DCF model. Long-lived assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.
Deferred Financing Costs	Deferred Financing Costs The Company has incurred debt issuance costs which are recognized as Long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Debt issuance costs are amortized and recognized as interest expense over the contractual term of the related indebtedness or shorter period if appropriate based upon contractual terms. Whenever indebtedness is modified from its original terms, an evaluation is made whether an accounting modification or extinguishment has occurred in order to determine the accounting treatment for debt issuance costs related to the debt modification. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the "FASB") which required that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct reduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Service revenues and product revenues are recognized when they are realized or realizable and when earned. Revenue is realized or realizable and earned when all of the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the Company's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Service revenues include the service components of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments. Product revenues include the Harsco Industrial Segment and the product revenues of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments. Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment —This Segment provides services predominantly on a long-term, volume-of-production contract basis. Contracts may include both fixed monthly fees as well as variable fees based upon specific services provided to the customer. The fixed-fee portion is recognized periodically as earned (normally monthly) over the contractual period. The variable-fee portion is recognized as services are performed and differs from period to period based upon the actual provision of services. This Segment also sells industrial abrasives and roofing granule products. Product revenues are recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract. Harsco Industrial Segment —This Segment sells industrial grating products, high-security fencing, heat exchangers, and heat transfer products. Product revenues are generally recognized when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract or purchase order. Harsco Rail Segment —This Segment sells railway track maintenance equipment, after-market parts and provides railway track maintenance services. Product revenue is recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract. Revenue may be recognized subsequent to the transfer of title and risk of loss for certain product sales, if the specific sales contract includes a customer acceptance clause that provides for different timing. In those situations, revenue is recognized after transfer of title and risk of loss and after customer acceptance. Certain contracts within the Harsco Rail Segment, which meet specific criteria established in U.S. GAAP, are accounted for as long-term contracts. The Company recognizes revenues on two contracts from the federal railway system of Switzerland ("SBB") based on the percentage-of-completion (units-of-delivery) method of accounting, whereby revenues and estimated average costs of the units to be produced under the contracts are recognized as deliveries are made or accepted. Contract revenues and cost estimates are reviewed and revised, at a minimum quarterly, and adjustments are reflected in the accounting period as such amounts are determined. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, for additional information. Accounting for contracts using the percentage-of-completion method requires judgment relative to assessing risks, estimating contract revenues and costs (including estimating any liquidating damages or penalties related to performance) and making assumptions for schedule and technical items. Due to the number of years it may take to complete these contracts and the scope and nature of the work required to be performed on those contracts, estimating total sales and costs at completion is inherently complicated and subject to many variables and, accordingly estimates are subject to change. When adjustments in estimated total contract sales or estimated total costs are required, any changes from prior estimates are recognized in the current period for the inception-to-date effect of such changes. When estimates of total costs to be incurred on a contract, using the percentage-of-completion method, exceed estimates of total sales to be earned, a provision for the entire loss on the contract is recorded in the period in which the loss is determined. Services are predominantly on a long-term, time-and-materials contract basis. Revenue is recognized when earned as services are performed within the long-term contracts.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of the events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company records deferred tax assets to the extent that the Company believes that these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determinations, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial results. In the event the Company was to determine that it would be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be made that would reduce the provision for income taxes. The Company prepares and files tax returns based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations and records its provision for income taxes based on these interpretations. Uncertainties may exist in estimating the Company's tax provisions and in filing tax returns in the many jurisdictions in which the Company operates, and as a result these interpretations may give rise to an uncertain tax position. The tax benefit from an uncertain tax position is recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on its technical merits. Each subsequent period the Company determines if existing or new uncertain tax positions meet a more likely than not recognition threshold and adjust accordingly. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within Income tax expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In general, it is the practice and the intention of the Company to reinvest the undistributed earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries. Should the Company repatriate future earnings, such amounts would become subject to U.S. taxation upon remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances, thereby giving recognition to current tax expense and to international tax credits. The significant assumptions and estimates described in the preceding paragraphs are important contributors to the effective tax rate each year.
Accrued Insurance and Loss Reserves	Accrued Insurance and Loss Reserves The Company retains a significant portion of the risk for U.S. workers' compensation, U.K. employers' liability, automobile, general and product liability losses. During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company recorded insurance expense from continuing operations related to these lines of coverage of $15.0 million , $13.6 million and $19.1 million , respectively. Reserves have been recorded that reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities including claims incurred but not reported. When a recognized liability is covered by third-party insurance, the Company records an insurance claim receivable to reflect the covered liability. Changes in the estimates of the reserves are included in net income (loss) in the period determined. During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , the Company recorded retrospective insurance reserve adjustments that decreased pre-tax insurance expense from continuing operations for self-insured programs by $5.4 million , $8.5 million and $7.0 million , respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the Company has recorded liabilities of $37.1 million and $41.8 million , respectively, related to both asserted as well as unasserted insurance claims. Included in the balances at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were $3.5 million and $3.4 million , respectively, of recognized liabilities covered by insurance carriers. Amounts estimated to be paid within one year have been included in current caption, Insurance liabilities, with the remainder included in non-current caption, Insurance liabilities, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Warranties	Warranty expense and payments are incurred principally in the Harsco Industrial and Harsco Rail Segments. Warranty activity may vary from year to year depending upon the mix of revenues and contractual terms related to product warranties. The Company provides for warranties of certain products as they are sold.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation The financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries outside the U.S., except for those subsidiaries located in highly inflationary economies and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Resulting translation adjustments are recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account, a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income and expense items are translated at average monthly exchange rates. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations. For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, gains and losses on foreign currency transactions and balance sheet translation adjustments are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations.
Financial Instruments and Hedging	Financial Instruments and Hedging The Company has operations throughout the world that are exposed to fluctuations in related foreign currencies in the normal course of business. The Company seeks to reduce exposure to foreign currency fluctuations through the use of forward exchange contracts. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes, and it is the Company's policy to prohibit the use of derivatives for speculative purposes. The Company has a Foreign Currency Risk Management Committee that meets periodically to monitor foreign currency risks. The Company executes foreign currency exchange forward contracts to hedge transactions for firm purchase commitments, to hedge variable cash flows of forecasted transactions and for export sales denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts are generally for 90 days or less; however, where appropriate, longer-term contracts may be utilized. For those contracts that are designated as qualified cash flow hedges, gains or losses are recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Amounts recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are reclassified into operations in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects income. The cash flows from these contracts are classified consistent with the cash flows from the transaction being hedged (e.g., the cash flows related to contracts to hedge the purchase of fixed assets are included in cash flows from investing activities, etc.). The Company also enters into certain forward exchange contracts that are not designated as hedges. Gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in operations based on changes in fair market value. For fair value hedges of a firm commitment, the gain or loss on the derivative and the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged firm commitment are recognized currently in operations.
Earnings Per Share	Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share are calculated using the weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, while diluted earnings per share reflect the dilutive effects of stock-based compensation. Dilutive securities are not included in the computation of loss per share when the Company reports a net loss from continuing operations as the impact would be anti-dilutive. All share and per share amounts are restated for any stock splits and stock dividends that occur prior to the issuance of the financial statements.
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards The following accounting standards have been adopted in 2016 : On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to reporting extraordinary and unusual items. The changes simplified income statement presentation by eliminating the concept of extraordinary items. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to consolidation. The changes updated consolidation analysis and affected reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs. The changes required that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct reduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. In August 2015, the FASB added guidance about the presentation and subsequent measurement of debt issuance costs associated with line-of-credit arrangements. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes resulted in the reclassification of approximately $10 million in deferred financing costs from Other assets to Long-term debt on the Company's consolidated balance sheets for all periods presented. The Company recorded approximately $9 million of additional deferred financing costs, net, during 2016 associated with the Company's debt refinancing. See Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements, for additional information. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB related to the determination of whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement is determined to include a software license, then the customer accounts for the software license element consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If the arrangement is determined not to contain a software license, the customer should account for the arrangement as a service contract. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. On January 1, 2016, the Company adopted changes issued by the FASB simplifying the accounting for measurement period adjustments for business combinations. The changes resulted in an acquirer no longer being required to retrospectively reflect adjustments to provisional amounts during the measurement period as if they were recognized as of the acquisition date. Instead the acquirer would record the effect of the change to the provisional amounts during the measurement period in which the adjustment is identified. The changes also required additional disclosure related to such measurement period adjustments. The changes became effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The adoption of these changes did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements; however in the future will have an effect on how the Company reports adjustments to provisional amounts during the measurement period. In August 2014, the FASB issued changes related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The change became effective for the Company for the annual period ending December 31, 2016. The adoption of this change did not have an impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued changes to address eight specific cash flow presentation issues with the objective of reducing diversity in practice. The issues identified include: debt prepayments or extinguishment costs; contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies (including bank-owned life insurance policies); distributions received from equity method investees; beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. During the fourth quarter of 2016, Management early adopted these changes. As a result of the adoption, the only change to the Consolidated statement of cash flows is that all cash costs related to the early extinguishment of the 5.75% Senior Notes due 2018 (the “Notes”) are reflected as financing activities, whereas prior to the adoption, some companies classified such costs as operating activities. The adoption of these changes did not have any impact in the previously issued financial statements. The following accounting standards have been issued and become effective for the Company at a future date: In May 2014, the FASB issued changes related to the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The changes clarify the principles for recognizing revenue and develop a common revenue standard. The core principle of the changes is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The changes also require additional disclosures related to revenue recognition. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of these changes by one year, but will permit entities to adopt one year earlier. During 2016, the FASB clarified the implementation guidance for principal versus agent considerations, identifying performance obligations, accounting for intellectual property licenses, collectability, non-cash consideration, the presentation of sales and other similar taxes, introduced practical expedients related to disclosures of remaining performance obligations and other technical corrections and improvements. These changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. Management has not yet finalized its evaluation, but currently believes the most significant impact will be with regard to the timing of revenue recognition associated with the air-cooled heat exchanger product group of the Harsco Industrial Segment and certain equipment sales in the Harsco Rail Segment. The Company currently recognizes revenues on such arrangements upon the completion of the efforts associated with these arrangements, but as a result of these changes, revenue from these arrangements will be recognized over time and increase revenue in earlier periods. Management continues to evaluate the effect of the new standard. In July 2015, the FASB issued changes related to the simplification of the measurement of inventory. The changes require entities to measure most inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value, thereby simplifying the current guidance under which an entity must measure inventory at the lower of cost or market. The changes do not apply to inventories that are measured using either the LIFO method or the retail inventory method. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In November 2015, the FASB issued changes that require deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent in a classified statement of financial position. The changes apply to all entities that present a classified statement of financial position. The current requirement that deferred tax assets and liabilities of a tax-paying component of an entity be offset and presented as a single amount is not affected. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Had these changes been adopted, the Company's working capital would have decreased by approximately $27 million and $38 million at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. In February 2016, the FASB issued changes in accounting for leases. The changes introduce a lessee model that brings most leases on the balance sheet. The changes also align many of the underlying principles of the new lessor model with those in the FASB’s new revenue recognition standard. Furthermore, the changes address other concerns related to the current leases model such as eliminating the requirement in current guidance for an entity to use bright-line tests in determining lease classification. The changes also require lessors to increase the transparency of their exposure to changes in value of their residual assets and how they manage that exposure. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2019. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on its consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued changes amending the accounting for stock-based compensation and requiring excess tax benefits and shortfalls to be recognized as a component of income tax expense rather than equity. These changes also require excess tax benefits and shortfalls to be presented as an operating activity on the Consolidated statement of cash flows and allows an entity to make an accounting policy election to either estimate expected forfeitures or to account for them as they occur. These changes are effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company will adopt these changes in the first quarter of 2017 by recording the cumulative impact of applying these changes to retained earnings, which will be approximately $1 million , related to the Company electing to not estimate forfeitures on stock compensation plans but rather recognize forfeitures as they occur. The inclusion of excess tax benefits and shortfalls as a component of the Company’s income tax expense will increase volatility within the provision for income taxes as the amount of excess tax benefits or deficiencies from stock-based compensation awards are dependent on the Company's stock price at the date an award vests. Had the Company adopted these changes at the beginning of 2016, income tax expense would not have been materially impacted for 2016. In October 2016, the FASB issued changes which eliminate the requirement to defer the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity asset transfer until the asset has been sold to an outside party. Under the new guidance, an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2018 and are to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Management is currently evaluating the impact of these changes on its consolidated financial statements. In November 2016, the FASB issued changes that add or clarify guidance on the classification and presentation of restricted cash in the statement of cash flows. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2019 with early adoption permitted. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

Summary of Significant Accoun31

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Product Warranty Liability	The following table summarizes the warranty activity for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Warranty reserves, beginning of the year $ 7,844 $ 8,886 $ 9,548 Accruals for warranties issued during the year 6,439 3,656 3,208 Reductions related to pre-existing warranties (5,611 ) (3,042 ) (2,680 ) Warranties paid (2,372 ) (1,629 ) (1,186 ) Other (principally foreign currency translation) (19 ) (27 ) (4 ) Warranty reserves, end of the year $ 6,281 $ 7,844 $ 8,886

Accounts Receivable and Inven32

Accounts Receivable and Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Accounts Receivable and Inventories [Abstract]
Schedule of accounts receivable	Accounts receivable consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Trade accounts receivable $ 248,354 $ 280,526 Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts (11,800 ) (25,649 ) Trade accounts receivable, net $ 236,554 $ 254,877 Other receivables (a) $ 21,053 $ 30,395 (a) Other receivables include insurance claim receivables, employee receivables, tax claim receivables and other miscellaneous receivables not included in Trade accounts receivable, net
Schedule of provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable	The following table reflects the provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : Years Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable $ (38 ) $ 13,047 $ 9,892
Schedule of inventories	nventories consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Finished goods $ 26,464 $ 32,586 Work-in-process 22,815 30,959 Contracts-in-process 54,044 55,786 Raw materials and purchased parts 61,450 70,755 Stores and supplies 22,908 26,881 Total inventories $ 187,681 $ 216,967 Valued at lower of cost or market: LIFO basis $ 79,933 $ 102,309 FIFO basis 64,742 64,760 Average cost basis 43,006 49,898 Total inventories $ 187,681 $ 216,967
Schedule of contracts in process	Contracts-in-process consist of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Contract costs accumulated to date $ 90,276 $ 55,786 Estimated forward loss provisions for contracts-in-process (b) (36,232 ) — Contracts-in-process (c) $ 54,044 $ 55,786 (b) To the extent that the estimated forward loss provision exceeds accumulated contract costs it is included in Other current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At December 31, 2016 this amount totaled $6.7 million . (c) At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the Company has $101.1 million and $82.7 million , respectively, of customer advances related to contracts-in-process. These amounts are included in Advances on contracts on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Equity Method Investments (Tabl

Equity Method Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Summary of equity method investments	Brand's summarized balance sheet information at June 30, 2016 and September 30, 2015 and summarized statement of operations information for the period from October 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016, the year ended September 30, 2015 and the period from November 27, 2013 through September 30, 2014 are summarized as follows: (In thousands) June 30 September 30 Summarized Balance Sheet Information of Brand: Current assets $ 896,933 $ 806,510 Property and equipment , net 884,979 894,537 Other noncurrent assets 1,454,951 1,519,722 Total assets $ 3,236,863 $ 3,220,769 Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt $ 14,402 $ 68,687 Other current liabilities 341,979 397,759 Long-term debt 1,857,162 1,736,081 Other noncurrent liabilities 351,714 383,638 Total liabilities 2,565,257 2,586,165 Equity 671,606 634,604 Total liabilities and equity $ 3,236,863 $ 3,220,769 (In thousands) Period From October 1, 2015 Through June 30 2016 (a) Year Ended September 30 2015 Period From November 27 2013 Through September 30 2014 (b) Summarized Statement of Operations Information of Brand: Net revenues $ 2,333,561 $ 2,976,471 $ 2,559,556 Gross profit 499,005 649,596 559,376 Net income (loss) attributable to Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries 20,756 605 (4,848 ) Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand 5,686 175 (1,595 ) (a) The Company's equity method investment in Brand was sold in September 2016; accordingly equity income (loss) was recorded for the period from October 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016. (b) The Company's equity method investment in Brand began on November 26, 2013; accordingly, there is only approximately ten months of related equity income (loss). The results of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from January 1, 2013 through the date of closing are reported in the Company's results of operations for 2013.
Summary of balances related to transactions between Company and Brand	Balances related to transactions between the Company and Brand are as follows: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 Balances due from Brand $ — $ 1,557 Balances due to Brand — 21,407

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of property, plant and equipment	Property, plant and equipment consist of the following: (In thousands) Estimated Useful Lives December 31 December 31 Land — $ 10,606 $ 10,932 Land improvements 5-20 years 15,032 15,277 Buildings and improvements (a) 5-40 years 185,657 191,356 Machinery and equipment 3-20 years 1,525,156 1,661,914 Uncompleted construction — 21,035 36,990 Gross property, plant and equipment 1,757,486 1,916,469 Less: Accumulated depreciation (1,267,231 ) (1,352,434 ) Property, plant and equipment, net $ 490,255 $ 564,035

Goodwill and Other Intangible35

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill by segment for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 : (In thousands) Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment Harsco Industrial Segment Harsco Rail Segment Consolidated Totals Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 400,006 $ 6,839 $ 9,310 $ 416,155 Changes to goodwill (493 ) (33 ) 3,490 (a) 2,964 Foreign currency translation (18,752 ) — — (18,752 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 380,761 6,806 12,800 400,367 Changes to goodwill — 33 226 259 Foreign currency translation (18,375 ) — — (18,375 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 362,386 $ 6,839 $ 13,026 $ 382,251 (a) Changes to goodwill in the Harsco Rail Segment relate to the acquisitions of Protran and JK Rail. See Note 3, Acquisitions, for additional information.
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class	The following table reflects these intangible assets by major category: December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 (In thousands) Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Customer related $ 146,840 $ 112,610 $ 153,287 $ 111,227 Patents 5,729 5,534 5,882 5,495 Technology related 25,687 25,634 25,559 23,089 Trade names 8,306 4,529 8,303 4,194 Other 8,512 5,200 8,701 4,669 Total $ 195,074 $ 153,507 $ 201,732 $ 148,674
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	The following table shows the estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years based on current intangible assets. (In thousands) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Estimated amortization expense (b) $ 5,000 $ 4,750 $ 4,500 $ 4,250 $ 4,000 (b) These estimated amortization expense amounts do not reflect the potential effect of future foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.

Debt and Credit Agreements (Tab

Debt and Credit Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities	The following table illustrates the amount outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility and available credit at December 31, 2016 . December 31, 2016 (In thousands) Facility Limit Outstanding Balance Outstanding Letters of Credit Available Credit Revolving Credit Facility (a U.S.-based program) $ 400,000 $ 98,000 $ 43,549 $ 258,451
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments	Long-term debt consists of the following: (In thousands) December 31 December 31 5.75% notes due May 15, 2018 $ — $ 449,005 Senior Secured Credit Facilities: Term Loan A Facility with an interest rate of 2.9% at December 31, 2015 — 250,000 Term Loan B Facility with an interest rate of 6.0% at December 31, 2016 550,000 Revolving Credit Facility with an average interest rate of 3.6% and 3.2% at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively 98,000 143,000 Other financing payable (including capital leases) in varying amounts due principally through 2017 with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.7% and 5.6% at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively 25,410 38,830 Total debt obligations 673,410 880,835 Less: deferred financing costs (18,597 ) (10,130 ) Total debt obligations, net of deferred financing costs 654,813 870,705 Less: current maturities of long-term debt (25,574 ) (25,084 ) Long-term debt $ 629,239 $ 845,621
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	The maturities of long-term debt for the four years following December 31, 2017 are as follows: (In thousands) 2018 $ 9,924 2019 6,217 2020 5,664 2021 103,531

Operating Leases (Tables)

Operating Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases	Future minimum payments under operating leases with noncancelable terms are as follows: (In thousands) 2017 $ 12,482 2018 9,187 2019 7,429 2020 6,434 2021 5,040 After 2021 16,932

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	Net periodic pension cost ("NPPC") for U.S. and international plans for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 is as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Defined benefit pension plans: Service cost $ 3,783 $ 2,889 $ 2,233 $ 1,585 $ 1,648 $ 1,610 Interest cost 10,165 12,357 12,868 26,822 36,282 43,230 Expected return on plan assets (14,402 ) (16,812 ) (16,786 ) (42,979 ) (50,091 ) (49,927 ) Recognized prior service costs 63 81 90 189 188 184 Recognized losses 5,493 4,919 3,352 12,002 16,875 14,102 Settlement/curtailment loss (gain) 276 — — 79 (23 ) 60 Defined benefit pension plan cost (income) 5,378 3,434 1,757 (2,302 ) 4,879 9,259 Multiemployer pension plans 636 853 1,199 1,368 1,463 1,762 Defined contribution plans 3,833 3,921 4,704 5,807 6,765 8,033 Net periodic pension cost $ 9,847 $ 8,208 $ 7,660 $ 4,873 $ 13,107 $ 19,054
Schedule of Net Funded Status	The change in the financial status of the defined benefit pension plans and amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Change in benefit obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 307,390 $ 325,319 $ 900,104 $ 1,049,603 Service cost 3,783 2,889 1,585 1,648 Interest cost 10,165 12,357 26,822 36,282 Plan participants' contributions — — 68 61 Amendments — — — 47 Actuarial (gain) loss 5,223 (14,417 ) 194,469 (85,028 ) Settlements/curtailments — — (1,527 ) (250 ) Benefits paid (20,909 ) (18,758 ) (32,079 ) (38,197 ) Effect of foreign currency — — (137,082 ) (64,062 ) Benefit obligation at end of year $ 305,652 $ 307,390 $ 952,360 $ 900,104 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 208,870 $ 233,350 $ 755,966 $ 791,045 Actual return on plan assets 15,289 (8,011 ) 105,027 22,602 Employer contributions 2,021 2,289 17,192 27,402 Plan participants' contributions — — 68 61 Settlements/curtailments — — (1,527 ) (250 ) Benefits paid (20,909 ) (18,758 ) (31,485 ) (37,693 ) Effect of foreign currency — — (112,498 ) (47,201 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ 205,271 $ 208,870 $ 732,743 $ 755,966 Funded status at end of year $ (100,381 ) $ (98,520 ) $ (219,617 ) $ (144,138 )
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet	Amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets for defined benefit pension plans consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Noncurrent assets $ 668 $ 229 $ 1,118 $ 1,229 Current liabilities 2,278 2,072 505 479 Noncurrent liabilities 98,771 96,678 220,230 144,888 Accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax 161,075 162,571 434,868 376,641
Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Not yet Recognized	Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax, for defined benefit pension plans consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : U.S. Plans International Plans (In thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Net actuarial loss $ 161,042 $ 162,475 $ 433,626 $ 375,725 Prior service cost 33 96 1,242 916 Total $ 161,075 $ 162,571 $ 434,868 $ 376,641
Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year	The estimated amounts that will be amortized from Accumulated other comprehensive loss into defined benefit pension plan NPPC in 2017 are as follows: (In thousands) U.S. Plans International Plans Net actuarial loss $ 5,701 $ 15,627 Prior service cost 33 175 Total $ 5,734 $ 15,802
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	The expected benefit payments for defined benefit pension plans over the next ten years are as follows: (In millions) 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022-2026 U.S. Plans $ 19.8 $ 19.3 $ 19.0 $ 19.0 $ 19.0 $ 95.0 International Plans 32.7 33.6 34.5 35.9 37.4 203.2
Schedule of Assumptions Used	The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the defined benefit pension plan obligations at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans Global Weighted-Average December 31 December 31 December 31 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 Discount rates 4.0 % 4.2 % 2.8 % 3.8 % 3.1 % 3.9 % Rates of compensation increase — % 3.0 % 3.3 % 3.2 % 3.3 % 3.2 % The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the defined benefit pension plan NPPC for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 were as follows: U.S. Plans December 31 International Plans December 31 Global Weighted-Average December 31 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 2016 2015 2014 Discount rates 4.2 % 3.9 % 4.7 % 3.8 % 3.7 % 4.7 % 3.9 % 3.7 % 4.7 % Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets 7.3 % 7.5 % 7.5 % 6.5 % 6.8 % 6.8 % 6.7 % 7.0 % 7.0 % Rates of compensation increase 3.0 % 3.0 % 3.0 % 3.2 % 3.2 % 3.4 % 3.2 % 3.2 % 3.4 %
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations	The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Accumulated benefit obligation $ 305.7 $ 307.4 $ 946.3 $ 894.8
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets	The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for defined benefit pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: U.S. Plans International Plans December 31 December 31 (In millions) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $ 296.7 $ 297.5 $ 913.0 $ 876.9 Accumulated benefit obligation 296.7 297.5 910.0 871.9 Fair value of plan assets 195.6 198.8 694.9 731.6
U.S. Plans
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	The fair values of the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Domestic equities: Common stocks $ 35,619 $ 35,619 $ — Mutual funds—equities 42,093 11,595 30,498 International equities—mutual funds 38,787 38,787 — Fixed income investments: U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities 15,506 — 15,506 Corporate bonds and notes 12,987 12,987 — Mutual funds—bonds 39,594 12,094 27,500 Other—mutual funds 20,803 20,803 — Cash and money market accounts 3,481 3,481 — Total $ 208,870 $ 135,366 $ 73,504 The fair values of the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Domestic equities: Common stocks $ 27,339 $ 27,339 $ — Mutual funds—equities 54,102 9,928 44,174 International equities—mutual funds 37,948 37,948 — Fixed income investments: U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities 14,240 — 14,240 Corporate bonds and notes 11,457 11,457 — Mutual funds—bonds 37,745 11,927 25,818 Other—mutual funds 20,346 20,346 — Cash and money market accounts 2,094 2,094 — Total $ 205,271 $ 121,039 $ 84,232 The asset allocations attributable to the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows: Target Long-Term Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets December 31 U.S. Plans Asset Category 2016 2015 Domestic equity securities 33%-43% 39.7 % 37.2 % International equity securities 14%-24% 18.5 % 18.5 % Fixed income securities 28%-38% 30.9 % 32.6 % Cash and cash equivalents Less than 5% 1.0 % 1.7 % Other (a) 5%-15% 9.9 % 10.0 %
International Plans
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	The fair values of the Company's international defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2016 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Equity securities: Mutual funds—equities $ 272,070 $ — $ 272,070 $ — Fixed income investments: Mutual funds—bonds 314,098 — 314,098 — Insurance contracts 7,657 — 7,657 — Other: Real estate funds/limited partnerships 23,714 — 23,714 — Other mutual funds 113,345 — 113,345 — Cash and money market accounts 1,859 1,859 — — Total $ 732,743 $ 1,859 $ 730,884 $ — The asset allocations attributable to the Company's international defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows: International Plans Asset Category Target Long-Term Allocation Percentage of Plan Assets December 31 2016 2015 Equity securities 32.5 % 37.1 % 33.7 % Fixed income securities 42.5 % 43.9 % 43.3 % Cash and cash equivalents — 0.3 % 0.3 % Other (b) 25.0 % 18.7 % 22.7 % The fair values of the Company's international defined benefit pension plans' assets at December 31, 2015 by asset class are as follows: (In thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Equity securities: Mutual funds—equities $ 255,937 $ — $ 255,937 $ — Fixed income investments: Mutual funds—bonds 320,259 — 320,259 — Insurance contracts 7,306 — 7,306 — Other: Real estate funds / limited partnerships 52,313 — 27,951 24,362 Other mutual funds 117,646 — 117,646 — Cash and money market accounts 2,505 2,505 — — Total $ 755,966 $ 2,505 $ 729,099 $ 24,362
Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets	The following table summarizes changes in the fair value of Level 3 assets in international defined benefit pension plans for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : Level 3 Asset Changes for the Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Real Estate Limited Partnership: Balance at beginning of year $ 24,362 $ 22,647 $ 20,423 Contributions to partnership — 109 385 Cash distributions received — (10,062 ) (1,614 ) Actual return related to plan assets (2,387 ) 11,668 3,453 Liquidation of investment (21,975 ) — — Balance at end of year $ — $ 24,362 $ 22,647

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign	Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ (99,939 ) $ 16,169 $ 22,951 International 20,468 18,646 (8,813 ) Total income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) $ (79,471 ) $ 34,815 $ 14,138
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	Income tax expense as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Income tax expense (benefit): Currently payable: U.S. federal $ (4,088 ) $ 408 $ 5,622 U.S. state 365 546 557 International 18,014 23,095 14,569 Total income taxes currently payable 14,291 24,049 20,748 Deferred U.S. federal (8,195 ) 2,651 3,447 Deferred U.S. state 2,238 812 893 Deferred international (1,697 ) 166 5,278 Total income tax expense $ 6,637 $ 27,678 $ 30,366
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	A reconciliation of the normal expected statutory U.S. federal income tax expense (benefit) to the actual income tax expense as reported on the Consolidated Statements of Operations is as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. federal income tax $ (27,815 ) $ 12,185 $ 4,949 U.S. state income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit (355 ) 496 713 U.S. domestic manufacturing deductions and credits (661 ) (2,504 ) (1,882 ) Capital loss on sale of equity interest in Brand with no realizable tax benefit 16,106 — — Difference in effective tax rates on international earnings and remittances 2,006 5,095 4,397 Uncertain tax position contingencies and settlements (1,886 ) 1,416 (5,298 ) Changes in realization on beginning of the year deferred tax assets 1,978 923 2,283 Forward Loss Provisions in SBB Contract with no realizable tax benefits 15,768 — — Restructuring and impairment charges with no realizable tax benefits — 8,508 21,969 U.S. non-deductible expenses 724 874 1,216 (Income) loss related to the Infrastructure Transaction (644 ) 580 2,592 Cumulative effect of change in statutory tax rates/laws (388 ) 340 246 Income (loss) from unconsolidated entities 2,098 62 (587 ) Other, net (294 ) (297 ) (232 ) Total income tax expense $ 6,637 $ 27,678 $ 30,366
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The tax effects of the temporary differences giving rise to the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: 2016 2015 (In thousands) Asset Liability Asset Liability Depreciation and amortization $ — $ 10,089 $ — $ 11,474 Expense accruals 23,300 — 24,538 — Inventories 6,611 — 5,588 — Provision for receivables 1,015 — 1,049 — Deferred revenue — 1,852 — 1,904 Operating loss carryforwards 80,178 — 77,151 — Foreign tax credit carryforwards 26,347 — 19,199 — Capital loss carryforwards 18,163 — 2,102 — Pensions 74,506 — 66,675 — Currency adjustments 17,597 — 28,589 — Equity investment in Infrastructure strategic venture — — — 10,688 Unit adjustment liability — — 29,491 — Post-retirement benefits 760 — 869 — Stock based compensation 5,812 — 4,790 — Other 7,206 — 3,656 — Subtotal 261,495 11,941 263,697 24,066 Valuation allowance (146,097 ) — (110,680 ) — Total deferred income taxes $ 115,398 $ 11,941 $ 153,017 $ 24,066 The deferred tax asset and liability balances recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 Other current assets $ 27,415 $ 38,899 Other assets 78,944 102,914 Other current liabilities 281 767 Deferred income taxes 2,621 12,095
Summary of Income Tax Contingencies	A reconciliation of the change in the unrecognized income tax benefits balance from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016 is as follows: (In thousands) Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits Deferred Income Tax Benefits Unrecognized Income Tax Benefits, Net of Deferred Income Tax Benefits Balances, January 1, 2014 $ 17,549 $ (198 ) $ 17,351 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) 288 (2 ) 286 Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 156 (55 ) 101 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (3,056 ) — (3,056 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (2,481 ) 143 (2,338 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 12,456 (112 ) 12,344 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) (483 ) (2 ) (485 ) Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 1,249 (4 ) 1,245 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (7,846 ) — (7,846 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (173 ) 59 (114 ) Settlements (42 ) 15 (27 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 5,161 (44 ) 5,117 Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment) 744 (1 ) 743 Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment) 358 (14 ) 344 Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years (837 ) — (837 ) Statutes of limitation expirations (817 ) 27 (790 ) Settlements (27 ) 2 (25 ) Total unrecognized income tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate at December 31, 2016 $ 4,582 $ (30 ) $ 4,552

Capital Stock (Tables)

Capital Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Share Repurchases	The Board had previously authorized the repurchase of shares of common stock as follows: Shares Authorized for Purchase January 1 Shares Purchased Plan Expiration Shares Authorized for Purchase December 31 2014 2,000,000 150,000 — 1,850,000 2015 1,850,000 596,632 1,253,368 —
Schedule of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward	The following table summarizes the Company's common stock: Shares Issued Treasury Shares (a) Outstanding Shares Outstanding, January 1, 2014 112,198,693 31,519,768 80,678,925 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 65,851 4,418 61,433 Stock appreciation rights exercised 9,213 2,985 6,228 Other stock grants 83,591 20,327 63,264 Treasury shares purchased — 150,000 (150,000 ) Outstanding, December 31, 2014 112,357,348 31,697,498 80,659,850 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 47,954 16,807 31,147 Treasury shares purchased — 596,632 (596,632 ) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 112,405,302 32,310,937 80,094,365 Issuance of vested restricted stock units 94,572 13,974 80,598 Outstanding, December 31, 2016 112,499,874 32,324,911 80,174,963 (a) The Company repurchases shares in connection with the issuance of shares under stock-based compensation programs and in accordance with Board authorized share repurchase programs.
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following is a reconciliation of the average shares of common stock used to compute basic earnings per common share to the shares used to compute diluted earnings per common share as shown on the Consolidated Statements of Operations: (In thousands, except per share data) 2016 2015 2014 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders $ (86,336 ) $ 7,168 $ (22,281 ) Weighted-average shares outstanding—basic 80,333 80,234 80,884 Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation — 131 — Weighted-average shares outstanding—diluted 80,333 80,365 80,884 Income (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders: Basic $ (1.07 ) $ 0.09 $ (0.28 ) Diluted $ (1.07 ) $ 0.09 $ (0.28 )
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share	The following average outstanding stock-based compensation units were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect was antidilutive: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Restricted stock units 810 — 301 Stock options 89 98 188 Stock appreciation rights 1,458 1,142 912 Performance share units 684 278 —

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of restricted stock units issued and compensation expense	The following table summarizes RSUs issued and the compensation expense recorded for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : RSUs (a) Weighted Average Fair Value Expense (Dollars in thousands, except per unit) 2016 2015 2014 Directors: 2013 46,287 $ 20.60 $ — $ — $ 318 2014 36,840 $ 24.80 — 311 602 2015 59,985 $ 15.69 314 627 — 2016 109,998 $ 7.00 513 — — Employees: 2011 17,250 $ 23.55 — — 3 2012 141,486 $ 18.75 — (71 ) (b) 151 2013 170,582 $ 20.63 66 87 325 2014 190,832 $ 25.21 669 504 1,114 2015 239,679 $ 16.53 880 919 — 2016 536,773 $ 7.09 995 — — Total $ 3,437 $ 2,377 $ 2,513 (a) Represents number of awards originally issued. (b) Represents the impact of forfeitures during 2015.
Schedule of restricted stock unit activity	RSU activity for the year ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Non-vested at December 31, 2015 438,358 $ 19.12 Granted 646,771 $ 7.08 Vested (102,256 ) $ 17.65 Forfeited (55,791 ) $ 13.90 Non-vested at December 31, 2016 927,082 $ 11.19
Schedule of Stock Appreciation Rights award activity	SARs activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions) (c) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 1,100,410 $ 20.55 $ — Granted 576,405 $ 7.20 Forfeited/Expired (140,942 ) $ 17.58 Outstanding, December 31, 2016 1,535,873 $ 15.81 $ 3.4 (c) Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those SARs where the market price exceeds the exercise price.
Schedule of nonvested awards activity	The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable SARs at December 31, 2016 : SARs Outstanding SARs Exercisable Range of exercisable prices Vested Non-vested Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Number Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share $7.00 - $12.25 — 538,862 $ 7.21 9.36 — $ — $16.53 - $22.70 274,632 414,447 $ 18.44 7.56 274,632 $ 18.53 $23.03 - $26.92 246,717 61,215 $ 25.00 7.41 246,717 $ 25.18 521,349 1,014,524 $ 15.81 7.81 521,349 $ 21.68
Schedule of stock option activity	Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions)(e) Outstanding, December 31, 2015 90,000 $ 31.75 $ — Forfeited/Expired (35,000 ) $ 31.75 $ — Outstanding, December 31, 2016 55,000 $ 31.75 $ — (e) Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those options where the market price exceeds the exercise price.
Schedule of outstanding and exercisable options	The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options at December 31, 2016 : Stock Options Outstanding Stock Options Exercisable Range of Exercisable Prices Vested Non-vested Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years Number Exercisable Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share $31.75 - $31.75 55,000 — $ 31.75 1.1 55,000 $ 31.75
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of stock appreciation rights valuation assumptions	The fair value of each SAR grant was estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes pricing model with the following assumptions: Risk-free Interest rate Dividend Yield Expected Life (Years) Volatility SAR Grant Price Fair Value of SAR May 2013 Grant 1.17 % 3.61 % 6.5 44.1 % $ 22.70 $ 6.86 June 2013 Grant 1.41 % 3.56 % 6.5 44.1 % $ 23.03 $ 7.07 November 2013 Grant 1.91 % 3.13 % 6.5 43.8 % $ 26.22 $ 8.60 April 2014 Grant 1.98 % 3.53 % 6.0 44.3 % $ 23.25 $ 7.25 May 2014 Grant (1st) 1.90 % 3.16 % 6.0 43.2 % $ 25.93 $ 8.16 May 2014 Grant (2nd) 1.82 % 3.05 % 6.0 42.8 % $ 26.92 $ 8.47 July 2014 Grant 2.00 % 3.24 % 6.0 41.2 % $ 25.27 $ 7.55 August 2014 Grant 1.92 % 3.27 % 6.0 41.2 % $ 25.11 $ 7.46 September 2014 Grant 2.03 % 3.50 % 6.0 40.6 % $ 23.43 $ 6.72 November 2014 Grant 1.78 % 4.00 % 6.0 38.6 % $ 20.48 $ 5.17 May 2015 Grant 1.70 % 4.96 % 6.0 35.8 % $ 16.53 $ 3.39 May 2016 Grant 1.39 % — % 6.0 42.1 % $ 7.00 $ 2.93 November 2016 Grant 1.74 % — % 6.0 43.8 % $ 12.25 $ 5.38
Schedule of weighted-average grant-date fair value of unvested options	Weighted-average grant date fair value of non-vested SARs for the years ended December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested shares, December 31, 2015 852,099 $ 5.04 Granted 576,405 $ 3.02 Vested (328,965 ) $ 5.40 Forfeited (85,015 ) $ 4.28 Non-vested shares, December 31, 2016 1,014,524 $ 3.84
Performance Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Schedule of stock appreciation rights valuation assumptions	The fair value of PSUs granted was estimated on the grant date using a Monte Carlo pricing model with the following assumptions: Risk-free Interest rate Dividend Yield Expected Life (Years) Volatility Fair Value of PSU April 2014 Grant 0.75 % — % 2.73 34.3 % $ 18.00 May 2014 Grant (1st) 0.70 % — % 2.65 31.8 % $ 25.26 May 2014 Grant (2nd) 0.63 % — % 2.61 30.1 % $ 27.53 July 2014 Grant 0.74 % — % 2.42 26.9 % $ 22.31 August 2014 Grant 0.67 % — % 2.42 26.9 % $ 21.86 September 2014 Grant 0.72 % — % 2.29 25.7 % $ 15.26 November 2014 Grant 0.55 % — % 2.10 26.3 % $ 7.42 May 2015 Grant 0.83 % — % 2.65 28.5 % $ 14.48 May 2016 Grant 0.84 % — % 2.65 33.3 % $ 7.19 November 2016 Grant 0.96 % — % 2.14 35.2 % $ 17.84
Schedule of weighted-average grant-date fair value of unvested options	A summary of the Company's non-vested PSU activity during the years ending December 31, 2016 was as follows: Number of Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested shares, December 31, 2015 315,212 $ 16.94 Granted 536,773 $ 7.38 Forfeited (63,217 ) $ 12.78 Cancellations (d) (96,206 ) $ 21.69 Non-vested shares, December 31, 2016 692,562 $ 9.25

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	The fair value of outstanding derivative contracts recorded as assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was as follows: Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value December 31, 2016 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 473 Other current liabilities $ 166 Cross-currency interest rate swaps Other current assets 514 — Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments $ 987 $ 166 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments : Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 4,459 Other current liabilities $ 3,372 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Balance Sheet Location Fair Value December 31, 2015 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 1,640 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps Other assets 15,417 — Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments $ 17,057 $ — Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Other current assets $ 4,188 Other current liabilities $ 1,738
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	The effect of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was as follows: Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments (In thousands) Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income ("OCI") on Derivative—Effective Portion Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income—Effective Portion Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income—Effective Portion Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative—Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative—Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2016: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 1,884 Cost of services and products sold $ 410 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps (1,549 ) — Cost of services and products sold 4,042 (a) $ 335 $ 410 $ 4,042 Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2015: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 2,532 Cost of services and products sold $ 53 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps 9,012 — Cost of services and products sold 30,359 (a) $ 11,544 $ 53 $ 30,359 Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 358 Cost of services and products sold $ 4 $ — Cross-currency interest rate swaps (1,977 ) — Cost of services and products sold 39,823 (a) $ (1,619 ) $ 4 $ 39,823 (a) These gains (losses) offset foreign currency fluctuation effects on the debt principal. Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Location of Loss Recognized in Income on Derivative Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative for the Twelve Months Ended December 31(b) (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Foreign currency exchange forward contracts Cost of services and products sold $ 15,875 $ (158 ) $ (2,307 ) (b) These gains (losses) offset amounts recognized in cost of service and products sold principally as a result of intercompany or third-party foreign currency exposures.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments	Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2016 : (In thousands) Type U.S. Dollar Equivalent Maturity Recognized Gain (Loss) British pounds sterling Sell $ 55,120 January 2017 $ (228 ) British pounds sterling Buy 827 March 2017 (14 ) Euros Sell 326,797 January 2017 through December 2017 628 Euros Buy 171,578 January 2017 through January 2018 (468 ) Other currencies Sell 43,455 January 2017 through September 2017 1,477 Other currencies Buy 3,106 March 2017 (1 ) Total $ 600,883 $ 1,394 Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2015 : (In thousands) Type U.S. Dollar Equivalent Maturity Recognized Gain (Loss) British pounds sterling Sell $ 43,511 January 2016 $ 822 British pounds sterling Buy 2,062 January 2016 (54 ) Euros Sell 336,397 January 2016 through December 2016 547 Euros Buy 167,037 January 2016 through August 2016 2,497 Other currencies Sell 35,426 January 2016 through March 2016 316 Other currencies Buy 7,981 January 2016 (38 ) Total $ 592,414 $ 4,090 The following table indicates the contractual amounts of the Company's CCIRs: Contractual Amounts Interest Rates (In millions) Receive Pay Maturing 2017 $ 2.7 Floating U.S. dollar rate Fixed rupee rate
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	The following table indicates the fair value hierarchy of the financial instruments of the Company at December 31, 2016 and 2015 : Level 2 Fair Value Measurements December 31 December 31 Assets Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ 4,932 $ 5,828 Cross-currency interest rate swaps 514 15,417 Liabilities Foreign-currency forward exchange contracts 3,538 1,738
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances for liabilities measured on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 : Level 3 Liabilities—Unit Adjustment Liability (c) for the Twelve Months Ended December 31 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of year $ 79,934 $ 93,762 Reduction in the fair value related to election not to make 2016 payments (19,145 ) — Sale of equity interest in Brand (65,461 ) — Payments — (22,320 ) Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability 4,672 8,491 Balance at end of year $ — $ 79,934 (d) (c) See Note 5, Equity Method Investments, for additional information. (d) Does not total due to rounding.

Information by Segment and Ge43

Information by Segment and Geographic Area (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas	Countries with revenues from unaffiliated customers or net property, plant and equipment of ten percent or more of the consolidated totals (in at least one period presented) are as follows: Information by Geographic Area (a) Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers Year Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 614,327 $ 758,820 $ 880,884 U.K. 156,552 217,011 257,885 All Other 680,344 747,261 927,519 Totals including Corporate $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288 (a) Revenues are attributed to individual countries based on the location of the facility generating the revenue.
Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block]	Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Balances at December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 U.S. $ 125,386 $ 142,506 $ 151,397 China 90,288 97,305 102,842 Brazil 62,597 57,381 69,515 All Other 211,984 266,843 339,490 Totals including Corporate $ 490,255 $ 564,035 $ 663,244
Schedule of Segment Operating Information by Segment	Operating Information by Segment: Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Revenues Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 965,540 $ 1,106,162 $ 1,378,142 Harsco Industrial 247,542 357,256 412,532 Harsco Rail 238,107 259,674 275,614 Corporate 34 — — Total Revenues $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288 Operating Income (Loss) Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 81,634 $ 26,289 $ 13,771 Harsco Industrial 23,182 57,020 64,114 Harsco Rail (17,527 ) 50,896 37,137 Corporate (23,820 ) (45,669 ) (45,735 ) Total Operating Income (Loss) $ 63,469 $ 88,536 $ 69,287 Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Total Assets Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 1,181,755 $ 1,294,673 $ 1,476,538 Harsco Industrial 107,987 119,830 127,591 Harsco Rail 204,477 219,753 169,035 Corporate 87,167 426,941 493,782 Total Assets $ 1,581,386 $ 2,061,197 $ 2,266,946 Depreciation and Amortization Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 120,611 $ 136,579 $ 159,844 Harsco Industrial 7,223 6,266 4,928 Harsco Rail 5,383 6,093 5,591 Corporate 8,269 7,537 5,963 Total Depreciation and Amortization $ 141,486 $ 156,475 $ 176,326 Capital Expenditures Harsco Metals & Minerals $ 62,322 $ 99,563 $ 187,665 Harsco Industrial 5,118 17,382 9,298 Harsco Rail 1,696 1,957 3,120 Corporate 204 4,650 8,776 Total Capital Expenditures $ 69,340 $ 123,552 $ 208,859
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated	Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Consolidated Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Income (Loss): Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Segment operating income $ 87,289 $ 134,205 $ 115,022 General Corporate expense (23,820 ) (45,669 ) (45,735 ) Operating income from continuing operations 63,469 88,536 69,287 Interest income 2,475 1,574 1,702 Interest expense (51,584 ) (46,804 ) (47,111 ) Loss on early extinguishment of debt (35,337 ) — — Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment (58,494 ) (8,491 ) (9,740 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) $ (79,471 ) $ 34,815 $ 14,138
Schedule of Product Information	Information about Products and Services: Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers Twelve Months Ended December 31 (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Key Product and Services Groups Global expertise in providing on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products $ 965,540 $ 1,106,162 $ 1,378,142 Railway track maintenance services and equipment 238,107 259,674 275,614 Industrial grating and fencing products 115,914 129,869 139,711 Air-cooled heat exchangers 93,616 186,243 226,529 Heat transfer products 38,012 41,144 46,292 General Corporate 34 — — Consolidated Revenues $ 1,451,223 $ 1,723,092 $ 2,066,288

Other Expenses (Tables)

Other Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]
Schedule of other expenses (income)	The major components of this Consolidated Statements of Operations caption are as follows: (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Net gains $ (1,764 ) $ (10,613 ) $ (6,718 ) Employee termination benefit costs 10,777 14,914 19,120 Other costs to exit activities 440 13,451 4,908 Impaired asset write-downs 399 8,170 39,455 Foreign currency gains related to Harsco Rail Segment advances on contracts — (10,940 ) — Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment separation costs 3,235 9,922 — Subcontractor settlement — 4,220 — Other expense (467 ) 1,449 1,059 Total $ 12,620 $ 30,573 $ 57,824
Schedule of net gains from sales of redundant properties and non-core assets	Net Gains (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ (1,828 ) $ (7,059 ) $ (3,538 ) Harsco Industrial Segment 64 (3,554 ) (2,077 ) Corporate — — (1,103 ) Total $ (1,764 ) $ (10,613 ) $ (6,718 )
Schedule of employee termination benefit costs	Employee Termination Benefit Costs (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 8,491 $ 11,454 $ 18,169 Harsco Industrial Segment 947 561 421 Harsco Rail Segment 297 145 185 Corporate 1,042 2,754 345 Total $ 10,777 $ 14,914 $ 19,120
Schedule of exit costs	Costs to Exit Activities (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 220 $ 12,638 $ 6,395 Harsco Industrial Segment 40 — — Corporate 180 813 (1,487 ) Total $ 440 $ 13,451 $ 4,908
Schedule of impaired asset write-downs	Impaired Asset Write-downs (In thousands) 2016 2015 2014 Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment $ 399 $ 8,170 $ 38,791 Harsco Industrial Segment — — 74 Harsco Rail Segment — — 590 Total $ 399 $ 8,170 $ 39,455

Components of Accumulated Oth45

Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of accumulated other comprehensive loss	The components of Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of the effect of income taxes, and activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 are as follows: Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax (In thousands) Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities Total Balance at December 31, 2014 $ (39,938 ) $ (9,025 ) $ (483,278 ) $ (15 ) $ (532,256 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (66,305 ) (a) 9,796 (b) 72,796 (c) (16 ) 16,271 Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee (21,950 ) (1,232 ) 596 — (22,586 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax — 53 20,190 — 20,243 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (88,255 ) 8,617 93,582 (16 ) 13,928 Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 2,632 8 — — 2,640 Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation (85,623 ) 8,625 93,582 (16 ) 16,568 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (125,561 ) $ (400 ) $ (389,696 ) $ (31 ) $ (515,688 ) Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax (In thousands) Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (125,561 ) $ (400 ) $ (389,696 ) $ (31 ) $ (515,688 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (53,301 ) (a) (1,650 ) (b) (86,181 ) (c) 26 (141,106 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax 1,157 (263 ) 16,011 — 16,905 Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment (See Note 5, Equity Method Investments) 28,641 1,636 (1,534 ) — 28,743 Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee 1,943 (405 ) 306 — 1,844 Total other comprehensive income (loss) (21,560 ) (682 ) (71,398 ) 26 (93,614 ) Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 2,587 (7 ) — — 2,580 Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation (18,973 ) (689 ) (71,398 ) 26 (91,034 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (144,534 ) $ (1,089 ) $ (461,094 ) $ (5 ) $ (606,722 ) (a) Principally foreign currency fluctuation. (b) Principally net change from periodic revaluations. (c) Principally changes due to annual actuarial remeasurements.
Amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive loss	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for 2016 and 2015 are as follows: Year Ended December 31 2016 Year Ended December 31 2015 Affected Caption on the Consolidated Statements of Operations (In thousands) Amortization of defined benefit pension items (d) : Actuarial losses $ 8,490 $ 15,810 Selling, general and administrative expenses Actuarial losses 9,005 5,984 Cost of services and products sold Prior-service costs (11 ) 121 Selling, general and administrative expenses Prior-service costs 263 148 Cost of services and products sold Settlement/curtailment losses 355 — Selling, general and administrative expenses Total before tax 18,102 22,063 Tax benefit (2,091 ) (1,873 ) Total reclassification of defined benefit pension items, net of tax $ 16,011 $ 20,190 Amortization of cash flow hedging instruments: Foreign currency exchange forward contracts $ (408 ) $ — Product revenues Foreign currency exchange forward contracts (2 ) 81 Cost of services and products sold Total before tax (410 ) 81 Tax benefit 147 (28 ) Total reclassification of cash flow hedging instruments $ (263 ) $ 53 Recognition of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments: Foreign exchange translation adjustments, before tax $ 1,157 $ — Other expenses Tax benefit — — Total reclassification of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments $ 1,157 $ — (d) These accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of NPPC. See Note 10, Employee Benefit Plans, for additional information.
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment are as follows: (In thousands) Twelve Months Ended Affected Caption on the Consolidated Statements of Operations December 31 Foreign exchange translation adjustments $ 45,405 Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Cash flow hedging instruments 2,593 Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Defined benefit pension obligations (2,433 ) Change in fair value to the adjustment liability and loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment Total before tax 45,565 Tax benefit (e) (16,822 ) Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment $ 28,743 (e) For the year ended December 31, 2016 the tax benefit was not recognized on the Consolidated Statement of Operations since a valuation allowance was established against the resulting deferred tax assets. See Note 11, Income Taxes, for additional information.

Restructuring Programs (Tables)

Restructuring Programs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost	The restructuring accrual for Project Orion at December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the activity for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows: (In thousands) Employee Termination Benefit Costs Balance January 1, 2015 $ 7,668 Expense incurred 5,070 Other adjustments (1,003 ) Cash expenditures (5,854 ) Foreign currency translation (74 ) Balance, December 31, 2015 5,807 Other adjustments (47 ) Cash expenditures (5,413 ) Foreign currency translation 29 Balance, December 31, 2016 $ 376

Summary of Significant Accoun47

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016ReportingUnit
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Total number of the Company's reporting units	5
Number of reporting units which have goodwill associated with them	3

Summary of Significant Accoun48

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Warranty activity
Warranty reserves, beginning of the year	$ 7,844	$ 8,886	$ 9,548
Accruals for warranties issued during the year	6,439	3,656	3,208
Reductions related to pre-existing warranties	(5,611)	(3,042)	(2,680)
Warranties paid	(2,372)	(1,629)	(1,186)
Other (principally foreign currency translation)	(19)	(27)	(4)
Warranty reserves, beginning of the year	6,281	7,844	8,886
Self-insurance
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Insurance expense from continuing operations	15,000	13,600	19,100
Decrease in pre-tax insurance expense due to retrospective insurance reserve adjustments from continuing operations	5,400	8,500	$ 7,000
Liabilities for asserted and unasserted claims	37,100	41,800
Liabilities covered by insurance carriers	$ 3,500	$ 3,400

Summary of Significant Accoun49

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 3)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Foreign Exchange Forward | Maximum
Derivative [Line Items]
Maximum typical term of foreign currency forward exchange contracts (in days)	90 days

Recently Adopted and Recently50

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards Details (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Deferred Finance Costs, Net	$ 9	$ 10
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	1
Change in Working Capital	$ 27	$ 38

Accounts Receivable and Inven51

Accounts Receivable and Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivable	$ 248,354	$ 280,526
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(11,800)	(25,649)
Trade accounts receivable, net	236,554	254,877
Other receivables	21,053	30,395
Provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable	(38)	13,047	$ 9,892
Inventories
Finished goods	26,464	32,586
Work-in-process	22,815	30,959
Contracts-in-process	54,044	55,786
Raw materials and purchased parts	61,450	70,755
Stores and supplies	22,908	26,881
Total inventories	187,681	216,967
Valued at lower of cost or market:
LIFO basis	79,933	102,309
FIFO basis	64,742	64,760
Average cost basis	43,006	49,898
Total inventories	187,681	216,967
Excess of inventories valued at current costs over LIFO	33,000	32,000
Change in income as a result of LIFO basis inventory valuation over FIFO basis valuation	1,300	0	100
Contract costs accumulated to date	90,276	55,786
Estimated Loss Provisions Offset Against WIP	(36,232)	0	0
Contracts-in-process	54,044	55,786
Provision for Loss on Contracts	6,700
Customer Advances and Deposits	101,100	82,700
Contract estimated forward loss provision for Harsco Rail Segment	45,050	0	$ 0
Contracts Revenue	$ 200	$ 1,900

Equity Method Investments (Deta

Equity Method Investments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Decrease in equity method investment			$ 29,400
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand			5,686	$ 175	$ (1,558)
Net sales proceeds			145,000
Merger related costs			20,640	7,688	7,688
Underlying equity in net assets	$ 225,000
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability			(4,700)	(8,491)	$ (9,740)
Unit adjustment liability, current and non-current			0	79,900
Unit adjustment liability
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Decrease in unit adjustment liability			19,145	0
Infrastructure Transaction Strategic Venture
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Total annual payments, pre-tax	22,000
Total annual payments, after-tax	$ 15,000
Ownership interest, joint venture contingency threshold	3.00%
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand		$ (1,595)	5,686	175
Accrued liabilities			1,400
Loss on sale of equity interest			43,500
Book value of equity investment				$ 250,100
Infrastructure Transaction Strategic Venture | Harsco Infrastructure
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand			$ (10,300)
Percentage of ownership in equity method investments			26.00%	29.00%

Equity Method Investments (De53

Equity Method Investments (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2016
Assets
Current assets			$ 806,510		$ 896,933
Property and equipment , net			894,537		884,979
Other noncurrent assets			1,519,722		1,454,951
Total assets			3,220,769		3,236,863
Liabilities and Equity
Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt			68,687		14,402
Other current liabilities			397,759		341,979
Long-term debt			1,736,081		1,857,162
Other noncurrent liabilities			383,638		351,714
Total liabilities			2,586,165		2,565,257
Equity			634,604		671,606
Total liabilities and equity			3,220,769		$ 3,236,863
Summarized Statement of Operations Information of Brand:
Net revenues	$ 2,559,556	$ 2,333,561	2,976,471
Gross profit	559,376	499,005	649,596
Net income (loss) attributable to Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries	(4,848)	20,756	605
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand		5,686	175	$ (1,558)
Infrastructure Transaction Strategic Venture
Summarized Statement of Operations Information of Brand:
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand	$ (1,595)	$ 5,686	$ 175

Equity Method Investments (De54

Equity Method Investments (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]
Decrease in equity method investment	$ 29,400
Balances due from Brand	0	$ 1,557
Balances due to Brand	$ 0	$ 21,407

Property, Plant and Equipment55

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Capital leases included in plant, property and equipment	$ 8,700	$ 16,000
Gross property, plant and equipment	1,757,486	1,916,469
Less: Accumulated depreciation	(1,267,231)	(1,352,434)
Property, plant and equipment, net	490,255	564,035	$ 663,244
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property, plant and equipment	10,606	10,932
Land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property, plant and equipment	$ 15,032	15,277
Land improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	5 years
Land improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	20 years
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property, plant and equipment	$ 185,657	191,356
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	5 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	40 years
Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property, plant and equipment	$ 1,525,156	1,661,914
Machinery and equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	3 years
Machinery and equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated Useful Lives	20 years
Uncompleted construction
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property, plant and equipment	$ 21,035	$ 36,990

Goodwill and Other Intangible56

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 400,367	$ 416,155
Changes to goodwill	259	2,964
Foreign currency translation	(18,375)	(18,752)
Balance at the end of the period	382,251	400,367
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	380,761	400,006
Changes to goodwill	0	(493)
Foreign currency translation	(18,375)	(18,752)
Balance at the end of the period	362,386	380,761
Harsco Industrial
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	6,806	6,839
Changes to goodwill	33	(33)
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	6,839	6,806
Harsco Rail
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	12,800	9,310
Changes to goodwill	226	3,490
Foreign currency translation	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	$ 13,026	$ 12,800

Goodwill and Other Intangible57

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 195,074	$ 201,732
Accumulated Amortization	153,507	148,674
Intangible assets, net	41,567	53,043
Amortization expense for intangible assets	7,900	8,800	$ 9,900
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Including Current, Net		53,100
Estimated amortization expense for the next five years
2,017	5,000
2,018	4,750
2,019	4,500
2,020	4,250
2,021	4,000
Customer related
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	146,840	153,287
Accumulated Amortization	112,610	111,227
Patents
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	5,729	5,882
Accumulated Amortization	5,534	5,495
Technology related
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	25,687	25,559
Accumulated Amortization	25,634	23,089
Trade names
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	8,306	8,303
Accumulated Amortization	4,529	4,194
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross Carrying Amount	8,512	8,701
Accumulated Amortization	$ 5,200	$ 4,669

Debt and Credit Agreements (Det

Debt and Credit Agreements (Details) - Line of Credit [Member] - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 02, 2015	Dec. 01, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Facility Limit	$ 400,000,000	$ 350,000,000	$ 600,000,000	$ 500,000,000
Outstanding Balance	98,000,000
Outstanding Letters of Credit	43,549,000
Available Credit	$ 258,451,000

Debt and Credit Agreements (D59

Debt and Credit Agreements (Details 2)	Dec. 02, 2015USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 01, 2015USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Net sales proceeds						$ 145,000,000
Repayment of debt						979,567,000	$ 399,533,000	$ 131,007,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt						(35,337,000)	0	0
Total debt obligations						673,410,000	880,835,000
Current maturities of long-term debt						25,574,000	25,084,000
Short-term borrowings						$ 4,259,000	$ 30,229,000
Weighted average interest rate						6.20%	4.30%
Interest paid						$ 49,600,000	$ 44,400,000	$ 44,200,000
Minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio, numerator						3
Minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio, denominator						1
Harsco Infrastructure | Infrastructure Transaction Strategic Venture
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership in equity method investments						26.00%	29.00%
Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest rate floor						1.00%
Quarterly payment, percentage of original principal amount						0.25%
Term Loan | Minimum | Base Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	375.00%
Term Loan | Minimum | LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	475.00%
Term Loan | Maximum | Base Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	400.00%
Term Loan | Maximum | LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	500.00%
Term Loan | Term Loan Facility 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Principle amount	$ 250,000,000
Repayment of debt						$ 85,000,000
Total debt obligations							$ 250,000,000
Term Loan | New Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Principle amount						550,000,000
Term Loan | Term Loan Facility 2016
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Total debt obligations						550,000,000
Secured Debt | Senior Secured Credit Facilities
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term and Short-term, combined amount						648,000,000	415,000,000
Total debt obligations						642,500,000	380,500,000
Current maturities of long-term debt						5,500,000	12,500,000
Short-term borrowings							22,000,000
Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Facility limit	$ 600,000,000					400,000,000	350,000,000			$ 500,000,000
Debt issuance cost						1,100,000
Minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio, numerator		4
Minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio, denominator		1
Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Current borrowing capacity						$ 400,000,000
Consolidated net debt to consolidated adjusted EBITDA ratio						2.5
Long-term and Short-term, combined amount						$ 98,000,000	165,000,000
Total debt obligations						98,000,000	143,000,000
Short-term borrowings							$ 22,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility | Minimum | Base Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	0.875%
Revolving Credit Facility | Minimum | LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.875%
Revolving Credit Facility | Maximum | Base Rate
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%
Revolving Credit Facility | Maximum | LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	3.00%
Revolving Credit Facility | New Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Repayment of debt						$ 60,000,000
Subsequent Event | Term Loan | Fixed-Rate Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Principle amount									$ 300,000,000
Forecast | Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio, numerator				3.5	3.75
Forecast | Subsequent Event | Term Loan | Fixed-Rate Term Loan | LIBOR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate			2.71%	1.65%

Debt and Credit Agreements (D60

Debt and Credit Agreements (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations	$ 673,410	$ 880,835
Less: deferred financing costs	(18,597)	(10,130)
Total debt obligations, net of deferred financing costs	654,813	870,705
Less: current maturities of long-term debt	(25,574)	(25,084)
Long-term debt	629,239	845,621
Maturities of Long-term Debt [Abstract]
2,018	9,924
2,019	6,217
2,020	5,664
2,021	103,531
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations	$ 98,000	$ 143,000
Variable interest rate	3.60%	3.20%
Senior Notes | 5.75% notes due May 15, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations	$ 0	$ 449,005
Stated interest rate	0.00%	5.75%
Term Loan | Term Loan Facility 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations		$ 250,000
Variable interest rate		2.90%
Term Loan | Term Loan Facility 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations	$ 550,000
Variable interest rate	6.00%
Other financing payable in varying amounts due principally through 2018 with a weighted-average interest rate of 2.7% and 9.4% at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total debt obligations	$ 25,410	$ 38,830
Weighted average interest rate	5.70%	5.60%

Operating Leases (Details)

Operating Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Rental expense for property, plant and equipment	$ 16,900	$ 18,900	$ 19,700
Operating leases
2,017	12,482
2,018	9,187
2,019	7,429
2,020	6,434
2,021	5,040
After 2,021	16,932
Minimum rentals to be received under noncancelable subleases	$ 1,100

Employee Benefit Plans (Details

Employee Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net periodic pension cost, U.S. Plans	$ 9,847	$ 8,208	$ 7,660
Net periodic pension cost, International Plans	4,873	13,107	19,054
U.S. Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined contribution plans	$ 3,833	3,921	4,704
U.S. Plans | Maximum
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Employer matching contribution (as a percent)	4.00%
International Plans
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Additional contribution towards insurance and administrative costs (as a percent)	2.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined contribution plans	$ 5,807	6,765	8,033
International Plans | Maximum
Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract]
Employer matching contribution (as a percent)	6.00%
U.S. Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 3,783	2,889	2,233
Interest cost	10,165	12,357	12,868
Expected return on plan assets	(14,402)	(16,812)	(16,786)
Recognized prior service costs	63	81	90
Recognized losses	5,493	4,919	3,352
Settlement/curtailment loss (gain)	276	0	0
Defined benefit plans pension cost	5,378	3,434	1,757
International Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost	1,585	1,648	1,610
Interest cost	26,822	36,282	43,230
Expected return on plan assets	(42,979)	(50,091)	(49,927)
Recognized prior service costs	189	188	184
Recognized losses	12,002	16,875	14,102
Settlement/curtailment loss (gain)	79	(23)	60
Defined benefit plans pension cost	(2,302)	4,879	9,259
Multiemployer Plans, Pension, Domestic [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Multiemployer plans	636	853	1,199
Multiemployer Plans, Pension, Foreign [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Multiemployer plans	$ 1,368	$ 1,463	$ 1,762

Employee Benefit Plans (Detai63

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 2) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)bond	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Noncurrent liabilities	$ 319,597	$ 241,972
U.S. Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	307,390	325,319
Service cost	3,783	2,889	$ 2,233
Interest cost	10,165	12,357	12,868
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Amendments	0	0
Actuarial loss	5,223	(14,417)
Settlements/curtailments	0	0
Benefits paid	(20,909)	(18,758)
Effect of foreign currency	0	0
Benefit obligation at end of year	305,652	307,390	325,319
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	208,870	233,350
Actual return on plan assets	15,289	(8,011)
Employer contributions	2,021	2,289
Plan participants' contributions	0	0
Settlements/curtailments	0	0
Benefits paid	(20,909)	(18,758)
Effect of foreign currency	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	205,271	208,870	$ 233,350
Funded status at end of year	(100,381)	(98,520)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Noncurrent assets	668	229
Current liabilities	2,278	2,072
Noncurrent liabilities	98,771	96,678
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax	161,075	162,571
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	161,042	162,475
Prior service cost	33	96
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax	161,075	$ 162,571
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Amounts that Will be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) in Next Fiscal Year [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	5,701
Prior service cost	33
Total	5,734
Estimate of expected contributions in next fiscal year	6,300
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2,017	19,800
2,018	19,300
2,019	19,000
2,020	19,000
2,021	19,000
2022-2026	$ 95,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rates	4.20%	3.90%	4.70%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets	7.30%	7.50%	7.50%
Rates of compensation increase	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	7.30%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rates	4.00%	4.20%
Rates of compensation increase	0.00%	3.00%
Number of U.S. dollar-denominated, AA-graded corporate bonds in yield curve universe | bond	0
Highest yield U.S. dollar-denominated, AA-graded corporate bonds excluded from yield curve universe (as a percent)	0.00%
Lowest yield U.S. dollar-denominated, AA-graded corporate bonds excluded from yield curve universe (as a percent)	0.00%
International Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$ 900,104	$ 1,049,603
Service cost	1,585	1,648	$ 1,610
Interest cost	26,822	36,282	43,230
Plan participants' contributions	68	61
Amendments	0	47
Actuarial loss	194,469	(85,028)
Settlements/curtailments	(1,527)	(250)
Benefits paid	(32,079)	(38,197)
Effect of foreign currency	(137,082)	(64,062)
Benefit obligation at end of year	952,360	900,104	1,049,603
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	755,966	791,045
Actual return on plan assets	105,027	22,602
Employer contributions	17,192	27,402
Plan participants' contributions	68	61
Settlements/curtailments	(1,527)	(250)
Benefits paid	(32,079)	(38,197)
Benefits paid	(31,485)	(37,693)
Effect of foreign currency	(112,498)	(47,201)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	732,743	755,966	$ 791,045
Funded status at end of year	(219,617)	(144,138)
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Noncurrent assets	1,118	1,229
Current liabilities	505	479
Noncurrent liabilities	220,230	144,888
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax	434,868	376,641
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	433,626	375,725
Prior service cost	1,242	916
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax	434,868	$ 376,641
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Amounts that Will be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) in Next Fiscal Year [Abstract]
Net actuarial loss	15,627
Prior service cost	175
Total	15,802
Estimate of expected contributions in next fiscal year	16,600
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2,017	32,700
2,018	33,600
2,019	34,500
2,020	35,900
2,021	37,400
2022-2026	$ 203,200
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rates	3.80%	3.70%	4.70%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets	6.50%	6.80%	6.80%
Rates of compensation increase	3.20%	3.20%	3.40%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	5.90%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rates	2.80%	3.80%
Rates of compensation increase	3.30%	3.20%
Global Weighted-Average
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Discount rates	3.90%	3.70%	4.70%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets	6.70%	7.00%	7.00%
Rates of compensation increase	3.20%	3.20%	3.40%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	6.20%
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rates	3.10%	3.90%
Rates of compensation increase	3.30%	3.20%

Employee Benefit Plans (Detai64

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 3) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)market	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)shares
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Dividends paid		$ 53,382	$ 66,321
U.S. Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation				$ 305,700	$ 307,400
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract]
Projected benefit obligation				296,700	297,500
Accumulated benefit obligation				296,700	297,500
Fair value of plan assets				195,600	$ 198,800
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Number of capital market results simulated in the model for expected return on plan assets | market	1,000
Period for which results of capital markets are simulated	20 years
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	7.30%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets	7.30%	7.50%	7.50%
Number of shares of Company's common stock included in plan assets | shares					450,000
Value of shares of Company's common stock included in plan assets				6,100	$ 3,500
Dividends paid	$ 100	$ 400
Fair values of plan assets	208,870	233,350	$ 233,350	$ 205,271	$ 208,870
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	208,870	233,350
Employer contributions	2,021	2,289
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 205,271	208,870	$ 233,350
U.S. Plans | Equity securities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				39.70%	37.20%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation - Minimum	33.00%
Target Long-Term Allocation - Maximum	43.00%
Fair values of plan assets	$ 35,619	35,619		$ 27,339	$ 35,619
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	35,619
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 27,339	35,619
U.S. Plans | Equity securities | International
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				18.50%	18.50%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation - Minimum	14.00%
Target Long-Term Allocation - Maximum	24.00%
U.S. Plans | Harsco common stock
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				3.00%	1.70%
U.S. Plans | Mutual funds - equities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 42,093	42,093		$ 54,102	$ 42,093
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	42,093
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	54,102	42,093
U.S. Plans | Mutual funds - equities | International
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	38,787	38,787		$ 37,948	$ 38,787
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	38,787
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 37,948	38,787
U.S. Plans | Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				30.90%	32.60%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation - Minimum	28.00%
Target Long-Term Allocation - Maximum	38.00%
U.S. Plans | U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 15,506	15,506		$ 14,240	$ 15,506
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	15,506
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	14,240	15,506
U.S. Plans | Corporate bonds and notes
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	12,987	12,987		11,457	12,987
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	12,987
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	11,457	12,987
U.S. Plans | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	39,594	39,594		$ 37,745	$ 39,594
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	39,594
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 37,745	39,594
U.S. Plans | Other
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				9.90%	10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation - Minimum	5.00%
Target Long-Term Allocation - Maximum	15.00%
U.S. Plans | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 20,803	20,803		$ 20,346	$ 20,803
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	20,803
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 20,346	20,803
U.S. Plans | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				1.00%	1.70%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation - Maximum	5.00%
Fair values of plan assets	$ 3,481	3,481		$ 2,094	$ 3,481
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	3,481
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	2,094	3,481
U.S. Plans | Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	135,366	135,366		121,039	135,366
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	135,366
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	121,039	135,366
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Equity securities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	35,619	35,619		27,339	35,619
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	35,619
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	27,339	35,619
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Mutual funds - equities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	11,595	11,595		9,928	11,595
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	11,595
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	9,928	11,595
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Mutual funds - equities | International
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	38,787	38,787		37,948	38,787
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	38,787
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	37,948	38,787
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Corporate bonds and notes
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	12,987	12,987		11,457	12,987
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	12,987
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	11,457	12,987
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	12,094	12,094		11,927	12,094
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	12,094
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	11,927	12,094
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	20,803	20,803		20,346	20,803
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	20,803
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	20,346	20,803
U.S. Plans | Level 1 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	3,481	3,481		2,094	3,481
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	3,481
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	2,094	3,481
U.S. Plans | Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	73,504	73,504		84,232	73,504
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	73,504
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	84,232	73,504
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Equity securities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Mutual funds - equities | United States
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	30,498	30,498		44,174	30,498
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	30,498
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	44,174	30,498
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Mutual funds - equities | International
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	15,506	15,506		14,240	15,506
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	15,506
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	14,240	15,506
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Corporate bonds and notes
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	27,500	27,500		25,818	27,500
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	27,500
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	25,818	27,500
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
U.S. Plans | Level 2 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 0	$ 0
International Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation				946,300	894,800
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract]
Projected benefit obligation				913,000	876,900
Accumulated benefit obligation				910,000	871,900
Fair value of plan assets				694,900	731,600
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	5.90%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets	6.50%	6.80%	6.80%
Fair values of plan assets	$ 755,966	$ 791,045	$ 791,045	$ 732,743	$ 755,966
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	755,966	791,045
Employer contributions	17,192	27,402
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 732,743	$ 755,966	791,045
International Plans | United Kingdom
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for next year (as a percent)	5.80%	6.60%
Pension plan assets as a percentage of international plan assets				94.00%
International Plans | International, other than UK
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Pension plan assets as a percentage of international plan assets				6.00%
International Plans | Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				37.10%	33.70%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation	32.50%
International Plans | Mutual funds - equities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 255,937	$ 255,937		$ 272,070	$ 255,937
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	255,937
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 272,070	255,937
International Plans | Fixed income securities
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				43.90%	43.30%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation	42.50%
International Plans | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 320,259	320,259		$ 314,098	$ 320,259
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	320,259
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	314,098	320,259
International Plans | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	7,306	7,306		$ 7,657	$ 7,306
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	7,306
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 7,657	7,306
International Plans | Other
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				18.70%	22.70%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation	25.00%
International Plans | Real estate funds / limited partnerships
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	$ 52,313	52,313		$ 23,714	$ 52,313
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	52,313
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	23,714	52,313
International Plans | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	117,646	117,646		$ 113,345	$ 117,646
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	117,646
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 113,345	117,646
International Plans | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Information about Plan Assets [Abstract]
Percentage of Plan Assets at December 31				0.30%	0.30%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Target Long-Term Allocation	0.00%
Fair values of plan assets	$ 2,505	2,505		$ 1,859	$ 2,505
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	2,505
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,859	2,505
International Plans | Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	2,505	2,505		1,859	2,505
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	2,505
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,859	2,505
International Plans | Level 1 | Mutual funds - equities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 1 | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 1 | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 1 | Real estate funds / limited partnerships
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 1 | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 1 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	2,505	2,505		1,859	2,505
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	2,505
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	1,859	2,505
International Plans | Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	729,099	729,099		730,884	729,099
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	729,099
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	730,884	729,099
International Plans | Level 2 | Mutual funds - equities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	255,937	255,937		272,070	255,937
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	255,937
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	272,070	255,937
International Plans | Level 2 | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	320,259	320,259		314,098	320,259
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	320,259
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	314,098	320,259
International Plans | Level 2 | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	7,306	7,306		7,657	7,306
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	7,306
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	7,657	7,306
International Plans | Level 2 | Real estate funds / limited partnerships
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	27,951	27,951		23,714	27,951
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	27,951
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	23,714	27,951
International Plans | Level 2 | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	117,646	117,646		113,345	117,646
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	117,646
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	113,345	117,646
International Plans | Level 2 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	24,362	24,362		0	24,362
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	24,362
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	24,362
International Plans | Level 3 | Mutual funds - equities
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 3 | Mutual funds - bonds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 3 | Insurance contracts
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 3 | Real estate funds / limited partnerships
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	24,362	22,647	20,423	0	24,362
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	24,362	22,647	20,423
Employer contributions	0	109	385
Cash distributions received	0	(10,062)	(1,614)
Actual return on plan assets - related to asset still held at end of year	(2,387)	11,668	3,453
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	24,362	22,647
Transfer from Investments	(21,975)	0	$ 0
International Plans | Level 3 | Other mutual funds
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		0	0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0
International Plans | Level 3 | Cash and cash equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan, Assets, Target Allocations [Abstract]
Fair values of plan assets	0	0		$ 0	$ 0
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$ 0	$ 0

Employee Benefit Plans (Detai65

Employee Benefit Plans (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Contributions By The Company	$ 2	$ 2.5	$ 3

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income
U.S.	$ (99,939)	$ 16,169	$ 22,951
International	20,468	18,646	(8,813)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss)	(79,471)	34,815	14,138
Currently payable:
U.S. federal	(4,088)	408	5,622
U.S. state	365	546	557
International	18,014	23,095	14,569
Total income taxes currently payable	14,291	24,049	20,748
Deferred U.S. federal	(8,195)	2,651	3,447
Deferred U.S. state	2,238	812	893
Deferred international	(1,697)	166	5,278
Total income tax expense	6,637	27,678	30,366
Cash payments for income taxes, including taxes on gain or loss from discontinued business	$ 14,600	$ 18,900	$ 36,000

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Foreign earnings before tax	$ 20,468	$ 18,646	$ (8,813)
Contract estimated forward loss provision for Harsco Rail Segment	45,050	0	0
Restructuring & impairment charges with no tax benefit		24,300
Differences on international earnings and remittances	2,000	5,100
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations	16,300	23,300
U.S. earnings before tax	(99,939)	16,169	22,951
Valuation allowance related to sale of Brand	16,100
Operating loss carryforwards	80,178	77,151
Capital loss carryforwards	18,163	2,102
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	146,097	110,680
Undistributed earnings indefinitely reinvested outside United States	528,000	547,000
Interest and penalties recognized	1,700		2,100
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	1,100	2,800	$ 2,800
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit	900
Pension adjustments
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Non-cash tax expense		16,100
Currency translation
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Non-cash tax expense		(11,500)
UK tax rate changes
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Non-cash tax expense		(6,300)
Infrastructure Transaction
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Non-cash tax expense		13,200
Capital loss on Equity Investment in Brand [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance	16,100
Forward loss Provisions in SBB contract [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance	13,500
Current Year Pension Adjustments recorded through Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance	19,200
Expiring between 2018 and 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Capital loss carryforwards	18,200
International operations
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	68,600
Operating loss carryforwards not subject to expiration	56,700
Operating losses subject to expiration	11,900
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase (Decrease) Resulting from Changes in Enacted Legislation		$ (7,800)
U.S. state
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	11,600
U.S. state | Expiring between 2017 and 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	1,400
U.S. state | Expiring between 2021 and 2025
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	3,600
U.S. state | Expiring between 2026 and 2030
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	3,300
U.S. state | Expiring between 2031 and 2036
Income Tax Disclosure [Line Items]
Operating loss carryforwards	$ 3,300

Income Taxes (Details 3)

Income Taxes (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract]
U.S. federal income tax	$ (27,815)	$ 12,185	$ 4,949
U.S. state income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	(355)	496	713
U.S. domestic manufacturing deductions and credits	(661)	(2,504)	(1,882)
Capital loss on sale of equity interest in Brand with no realizable tax benefit	16,106	0	0
Difference in effective tax rates on international earnings and remittances	2,006	5,095	4,397
Uncertain tax position contingencies and settlements	(1,886)	1,416	(5,298)
Changes in realization on beginning of the year deferred tax assets	1,978	923	2,283
Forward Loss Provisions in SBB Contract with no realizable tax benefits	15,768	0	0
Restructuring and impairment charges with no realizable tax benefits	0	8,508	21,969
U.S. non-deductible expenses	724	874	1,216
(Income) loss related to the Infrastructure Transaction	(644)	580	2,592
Cumulative effect of change in statutory tax rates/laws	(388)	340	246
Income (loss) from unconsolidated entities	2,098	62	(587)
Other, net	(294)	(297)	(232)
Total income tax expense	$ 6,637	$ 27,678	$ 30,366
Annual effective income tax rate	(8.40%)	79.50%	214.80%

Income Taxes (Details 4)

Income Taxes (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset
Expense accruals	$ 23,300	$ 24,538
Inventories	6,611	5,588
Provision for receivables	1,015	1,049
Operating loss carryforwards	80,178	77,151
Foreign tax credit carryforwards	26,347	19,199
Capital loss carryforwards	18,163	2,102
Pensions	74,506	66,675
Currency adjustments	17,597	28,589
Unit adjustment liability	0	29,491
Post-retirement benefits	760	869
Stock based compensation	5,812	4,790
Other	7,206	3,656
Subtotal	261,495	263,697
Valuation allowance	(146,097)	(110,680)
Total deferred income taxes	115,398	153,017
Liability
Depreciation and amortization	10,089	11,474
Deferred revenue	1,852	1,904
Equity investment in Infrastructure strategic venture	0	10,688
Total deferred income taxes	11,941	24,066
Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Classification [Abstract]
Other current assets	27,415	38,899
Other assets	78,944	102,914
Other current liabilities	281	767
Deferred income taxes	$ 2,621	$ 12,095

Income Taxes (Details 5)

Income Taxes (Details 5) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 5,161	$ 12,456	$ 17,549
Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)	744	(483)	288
Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)	358	1,249	156
Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(837)	(7,846)	(3,056)
Statutes of limitations expirations	(817)	(173)	(2,481)
Settlements	(27)	(42)
Balance at the end of the period	4,582	5,161	12,456
Reconciliation of Deferred Income Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	(44)	(112)	(198)
Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)	(1)	(2)	(2)
Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)	(14)	(4)	(55)
Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years	0	0	0
Statutes of limitation expirations	27	59	143
Settlements	2	15
Balance at the end of the period	(30)	(44)	(112)
Reconciliation of Net Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]
Balance at the beginning of the period	4,552	5,117	12,344	$ 17,351
Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)	743	(485)	286
Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)	344	1,245	101
Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(837)	(7,846)	(3,056)
Statutes of limitation expirations	(790)	(114)	(2,338)
Settlements	(25)	(27)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 4,552	$ 5,117	$ 12,344

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2005USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)claimdefendantcase	Apr. 08, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
loss contingency, Brazilian labor claims
Commitments and Contingencies
Liabilities for asserted and unasserted claims		$ 7.9		$ 6.9
Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Number of Defendants | defendant		90
Number of pending claims | claim		17,090
Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number | case		27,903
Other | Minimum
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value		$ 20
Other | Maximum
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value		$ 25
Pending Litigation, Active Or In Extremis Docket | Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of pending claims | claim		15
Sao Paulo State Revenue Authority | Value-Added Tax Assessments January 2004 To May 2005
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Principal Amount		$ 2
Estimated claims or assessment, additional amount		$ 23
Sao Paulo State Revenue Authority | Value-Added Tax Assessments January 2002 To December 2003
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Principal Amount	$ 1.8
Estimated claims or assessment, additional amount	5.9
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value	$ 7.8
New York County as managed by the New York Supreme Court | Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of pending claims | case		16,757
New York County as managed by the New York Supreme Court | Pending And Future Litigation, Deferred Or Inactive Docket | Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of pending claims | claim		16,742
New York State Supreme Court, Counties Excluding New York County [Member] | Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of pending claims | case		111
Courts Located In States Other Than New York | Other
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of pending claims | case		222
Lima Refinery Litigation [Member]
Commitments and Contingencies
Loss Contingency, Property Damages			$ 106
Loss Contingency, Lost Profits and Business Interruption Damages			$ 289

Capital Stock (Details)

Capital Stock (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016share_right$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2015shares	Dec. 31, 2014shares
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Common stock authorized (in shares)	150,000,000
Preferred stock authorized (in shares)	4,000,000
Preferred stock authorized, par value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.25
Shares Authorized to Be Purchased [Roll Forward]
Shares Authorized for Purchased, Beginning Balance	0	1,850,000	2,000,000
Shares Purchased		0	0
share repurchase - expired shares		1,253,368	0
Remaining Shares Authorized for Purchase, Ending Balance		0	1,850,000
Treasury Stock [Member]
Shares Authorized to Be Purchased [Roll Forward]
Shares Purchased	0	596,632	150,000
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Agreement
Class of Warrant or Right [Line Items]
Number of rights distributed for each share of common stock outstanding | share_right	1
Minimum percentage of common stock to be acquired to trigger exercise of rights	15.00%
Number of securities called by rights (in shares)	0.01
Exercise price of warrant or right (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 230
Multiplier of exercise price of right to determine common share purchase rights	2
Redemption price per right (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 0.001
Number of business days following the acquisition of stock after which rights become exercisable	10 days
Preferred stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of rights (in shares)	801,750	800,944

Capital Stock (Details 2)

Capital Stock (Details 2) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Common Stock
Shares outstanding at the beginning of the period		112,499,874	112,405,302	112,357,348	112,198,693
Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held	[1]	32,324,911	32,310,937	31,697,498	31,519,768
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding		80,174,963	80,094,365	80,659,850	80,678,925
Vested Restricted Stock Units (in shares)		94,572	47,954	65,851
Stock issued during period, stock appreciation rights				9,213
Other Stock Grants (in shares)				83,591
Treasury shares purchased			0	0
Shares outstanding at the end of the period		112,499,874	112,405,302	112,357,348
Treasury Stock, Number of Shares Held	[1]	32,324,911	32,310,937	31,697,498
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding		80,174,963	80,094,365	80,659,850
Reconciliation of the average shares of common stock used to compute basic earnings per common share to the shares used to compute diluted earnings per common share
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders (in dollars)		$ (86,336)	$ 7,168	$ (22,281)
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding		80,333,000	80,234,000	80,884,000
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation (in shares)		0	131,000	0
Weighted-average shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)		80,333,000	80,365,000	80,884,000
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic (in dollars per share)		$ (1.07)	$ 0.09	$ (0.28)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share		$ (1.07)	$ 0.09	$ (0.28)
Treasury Stock [Member]
Common Stock
Vested Restricted Stock Units (in shares)	[1]	13,974	16,807	4,418
Stock issued during period, stock appreciation rights	[1]			2,985
Other Stock Grants (in shares)	[1]			20,327
Treasury shares purchased		0	(596,632)	(150,000)
Outstanding Shares
Common Stock
Vested Restricted Stock Units (in shares)		80,598	31,147	61,433
Stock issued during period, stock appreciation rights				6,228
Other Stock Grants (in shares)				63,264
Treasury shares purchased			(596,632)	(150,000)
[1]	The Company repurchases shares in connection with the issuance of shares under stock-based compensation programs and in accordance with Board authorized share repurchase programs.

Capital Stock (Details 3)

Capital Stock (Details 3) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Restricted stock units
Antidilutive securities
Number of securities not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	810	0	301
Stock options
Antidilutive securities
Number of securities not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	89	98	188
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Antidilutive securities
Number of securities not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	1,458	1,142	912
Performance Shares [Member]
Antidilutive securities
Number of securities not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	684	278	0

Stock-Based Compensation (Restr

Stock-Based Compensation (Restricted Stock) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (in shares)	536,773
Restricted stock unit activity
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)	315,212
Granted (in shares)	536,773
Forfeited (in shares)	(63,217)
Nonvested at the end of the period (in shares)	692,562	315,212
Additional disclosures
Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation	$ 1,100,000
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation		$ 0	$ 0
Restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (in shares)	646,771
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 7.08
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 3,437,000	$ 2,377,000	$ 2,513,000
Restricted stock unit activity
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)	438,358
Granted (in shares)	646,771
Vested (in shares)	(102,256)
Forfeited (in shares)	(55,791)
Nonvested at the end of the period (in shares)	927,082	438,358
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 19.12
Granted (in dollars per share)	7.08
Vested (in dollars per share)	17.65
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	13.90
Nonvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 11.19	$ 19.12
Additional disclosures
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 4,000,000
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, period of recognition	1 year 292 days
2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares authorized for issuance	6,800,000
Number of shares available for grant	3,651,413
2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan | Equity Awards, Other Than Options And Stock Appreciation Rights [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares authorized for issuance	3,400,000
Number of shares available for grant	1,779,549
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares authorized for issuance	400,000
Number of shares available for grant	290,002
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan | Restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	1 year
Granted (in shares)	109,998	59,985	36,840	46,287
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 7	$ 15.69	$ 24.80	$ 20.60
Restricted stock unit activity
Granted (in shares)	109,998	59,985	36,840	46,287
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 7	$ 15.69	$ 24.80	$ 20.60
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan | Restricted stock units | 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 318,000
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan | Restricted stock units | 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	0	311,000	602,000
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan | Restricted stock units | 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	314,000	627,000	0
1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan | Restricted stock units | Issue Period Six [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 513,000	$ 0	$ 0
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)			3 years	3 years	3 years
Granted (in shares)	536,773	239,679	190,832	170,582	141,486	17,250
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 7.09	$ 16.53	$ 25.21	$ 20.63	$ 18.75	$ 23.55
Restricted stock unit activity
Granted (in shares)	536,773	239,679	190,832	170,582	141,486	17,250
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 7.09	$ 16.53	$ 25.21	$ 20.63	$ 18.75	$ 23.55
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 0	$ 0	$ 3,000
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	0	(71,000)	151,000
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	66,000	87,000	325,000
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	669,000	504,000	1,114,000
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	880,000	919,000	0
1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan | Restricted stock units | Issue Period Six [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 995,000	$ 0	$ 0

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock Appreciation Rights) (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016	May 31, 2016	May 31, 2015	Nov. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	May 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Nov. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	May 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (in shares)													536,773
Number of Shares
Forfeited (in shares)													(96,206)
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options vested, outstanding (in shares)													521,349
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Appreciation Rights, Exercise Price Range, Number Of Unvested Shares													1,014,524
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)													$ 15.81
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms													7 years 296 days
Number of exercisable options (in shares)													521,349
Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)													$ 21.68
Unvested activity
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)													315,212
Granted (in shares)													536,773
Forfeited stock appreciation rights (in shares)													(63,217)
Nonvested at the end of the period (in shares)													692,562	315,212
Exercise Price Range Four [Member]
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Range of Exercisable Prices, low end of range (in dollars per share)													$ 31.75
Range of Exercisable Prices, high end of range (in dollars per share)													$ 31.75
Options vested, outstanding (in shares)													0
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Appreciation Rights, Exercise Price Range, Number Of Unvested Shares													538,862
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)													$ 7.21
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms													9 years 131 days
Number of exercisable options (in shares)													0
Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)													$ 0
$16.53 - $22.70
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options vested, outstanding (in shares)													274,632
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Appreciation Rights, Exercise Price Range, Number Of Unvested Shares													414,447
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)													$ 18.44
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms													7 years 204 days
Number of exercisable options (in shares)													274,632
Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)													$ 18.53
$23.03 - $26.92
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options vested, outstanding (in shares)													246,717
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized Under Stock Appreciation Rights, Exercise Price Range, Number Of Unvested Shares													61,215
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share (in dollars per share)													$ 25
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms													7 years 150 days
Number of exercisable options (in shares)													246,717
Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share)													$ 25.18
Stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)													3 years
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Recognized stock-based compensation expense													$ 0	$ 0	$ 100,000
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense													$ 0	$ 0
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Stock options exercised													0	0	0
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised													$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Stock options | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period (in years)													7 years
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted (in shares)													576,405
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	1.74%	1.39%	1.70%	1.78%	2.03%	1.92%	2.00%		1.98%	1.91%	1.41%	1.17%
Dividend yield (as a percent)	0.00%	0.00%	4.96%	4.00%	3.50%	3.27%	3.24%		3.53%	3.13%	3.56%	3.61%
Expected life	6 years	6 years	6 years	6 years	6 years	6 years	6 years		6 years	6 years 6 months	6 years 6 months	6 years 6 months
Volatility (as a percent)	43.80%	42.10%	35.80%	38.60%	40.60%	41.20%	41.20%		44.30%	43.80%	44.10%	44.10%
SAR grant price	$ 12.25	$ 7	$ 16.53	$ 20.48		$ 25.11	$ 25.27		$ 23.25	$ 26.22	$ 23.03	$ 22.70			$ 23.43
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)	5.38	2.93	3.39	5.17	$ 6.72	7.46	7.55		7.25	8.60	7.07	6.86	$ 3.02
Number of Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)													1,100,410
Granted (in shares)													576,405
Forfeited (in shares)													(140,942)
Outstanding at end of period (in shares)													1,535,873	1,100,410
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of period													$ 20.55
Granted													7.20
Forfeited/expired													17.58
Outstanding at end of period													$ 15.81	$ 20.55
Outstanding - Aggregate Intrinsic Value													$ 3,400,000	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercised													0	0	$ 200,000
Recognized stock-based compensation expense													$ 1,700,000	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,000,000
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms													7 years 6 months
Intrinsic value of options exercised													$ 0
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense													$ 2,500,000
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, period of recognition													1 year 256 days
Unvested activity
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)													852,099
Granted (in shares)													576,405
Vested (in shares)													(328,965)
Forfeited stock appreciation rights (in shares)													(85,015)
Nonvested at the end of the period (in shares)													1,014,524	852,099
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)													$ 5.04
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 5.38	$ 2.93	$ 3.39	$ 5.17	$ 6.72	$ 7.46	$ 7.55		$ 7.25	$ 8.60	$ 7.07	$ 6.86	3.02
Vested (in dollars per share)													5.40
Forfeited (in dollars per share)													4.28
Nonvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)													$ 3.84	$ 5.04
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)													1 year
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Exercise Price Range Four [Member]
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Range of Exercisable Prices, low end of range (in dollars per share)													$ 7
Range of Exercisable Prices, high end of range (in dollars per share)													12.25
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | $16.53 - $22.70
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Range of Exercisable Prices, low end of range (in dollars per share)													16.53
Range of Exercisable Prices, high end of range (in dollars per share)													22.70
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | $23.03 - $26.92
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Range of Exercisable Prices, low end of range (in dollars per share)													23.03
Range of Exercisable Prices, high end of range (in dollars per share)													$ 26.92
2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period (in years)													10 years
Granted (in shares)	21,686	554,719	532,615	12,401	15,808	84,290	31,405	255,090	51,900
Unvested activity
Granted (in shares)	21,686	554,719	532,615	12,401	15,808	84,290	31,405	255,090	51,900
2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)													5 years
May 2014 Grant 1 | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)								1.90%
Dividend yield (as a percent)								3.16%
Expected life								6 years
Volatility (as a percent)								43.20%
SAR grant price								$ 25.93
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)								8.16
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)								$ 8.16
May 2014 Grant 2 | Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs)
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)								1.82%
Dividend yield (as a percent)								3.05%
Expected life								6 years
Volatility (as a percent)								42.80%
SAR grant price								$ 26.92
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)								8.47
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)								$ 8.47

Stock-Based Compensation (Perfo

Stock-Based Compensation (Performance Stock Units) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	1 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2016	May 31, 2016	May 31, 2015	Nov. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Aug. 31, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014	May 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Unvested activity
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)										315,212
Granted (in shares)										536,773
Forfeited (in shares)										(63,217)
Cancellations (in shares)										(96,206)
Nonvested at the end of the period (in shares)										692,562	315,212
Performance Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Performance period										3 years
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	0.96%	0.84%	0.83%	0.55%	0.72%	0.67%	0.74%		0.75%
Dividend yield (as a percent)	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%		0.00%
Expected Life (Years)	2 years 51 days	2 years 237 days	2 years 237 days	2 years 1 month 6 days	2 years 3 months 15 days	2 years 5 months 3 days	2 years 5 months 3 days		2 years 8 months 24 days
Volatility	35.20%	33.30%	28.50%	26.30%	25.70%	26.90%	26.90%		34.30%
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)	$ 17.84	$ 7.19	$ 14.48	$ 7.42	$ 15.26	$ 21.86	$ 22.31		$ 18	$ 7.38
Recognized stock-based compensation expense										$ 2.5	$ 1.4	$ 0.9
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense										$ 3.3
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, period of recognition										1 year 256 days
Unvested activity
Granted (in shares)	9,524	527,249	237,063	3,906	4,980	26,550	11,487	82,526	15,700
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)										$ 16.94
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 17.84	$ 7.19	$ 14.48	$ 7.42	$ 15.26	$ 21.86	$ 22.31		$ 18	7.38
Forfeited (in dollars per share)										12.78
Cancellations (in dollars per share)										21.69
Nonvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)										$ 9.25	$ 16.94
Performance Stock Units | May 2014 Grant 1
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)								0.70%
Dividend yield (as a percent)								0.00%
Expected Life (Years)								2 years 7 months 26 days
Volatility								31.80%
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)								$ 25.26
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)								$ 25.26
Performance Stock Units | May 2014 Grant 2
Fair value assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)								0.63%
Dividend yield (as a percent)								0.00%
Expected Life (Years)								2 years 7 months 11 days
Volatility								30.10%
Fair value of award (in dollars per share)								$ 27.53
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per share)								$ 27.53
Performance Stock Units | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Payout of PSUs (percent of initial grant)										0.00%
Performance Stock Units | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Payout of PSUs (percent of initial grant)										200.00%

Stock-Based Compensation (Sto78

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock Options) (Details) - Stock options - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period (in years)	3 years
Shares Under Option
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)	90,000
Exercised (in shares)	0	0	0
Forfeited/Expired (in shares)	(35,000)
Outstanding at end of period (in shares)	55,000	90,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 31.75
Forfeited/Expired (in dollars per share)	31.75
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 31.75	$ 31.75
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at beginning of period	$ 0
Outstanding at end of period	0	$ 0
Recognized stock-based compensation expense	0	0	$ 100,000
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	0	0
Proceeds from stock options exercised	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period (in years)	7 years

Stock-Based Compensation (Sto79

Stock-Based Compensation (Stock Options - Range of Exercise Prices) (Details) - Exercise Price Range Four [Member]	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of Exercisable Prices, low end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 31.75
Range of Exercisable Prices, high end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 31.75
Stock options
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Vested | shares	55,000
Non-vested | shares	0
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$ 31.75
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years	1 year 37 days
Number Exercisable | shares	55,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$ 31.75

Stock-Based Compensation (Other

Stock-Based Compensation (Other Stock Grants) (Details) - Other stock grants $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares issued	55,919
Recognized stock-based compensation expense | $	$ 0.7
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares issued	27,672

Financial Instruments (Details)

Financial Instruments (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)Country	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Minimum
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Number of countries in which entity has currency exposures | Country	30
Stand by letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Contingent liability outstanding	$ 273.1	$ 232.5		$ 269.4
Stand by letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees | Minimum
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Fees paid to various banks and insurance companies on face amount of instruments (as a percent)	0.40%
Stand by letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees | Maximum
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Guarantee term	3 years
Fees paid to various banks and insurance companies on face amount of instruments (as a percent)	3.50%
Net Working Capital Settlement
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Potential amount of future payments for guarantees, maximum	$ 3
Guarantee remaining term	4 years
Environmental indemnification for property from a lease terminated in 2006
Guarantor Obligations [Line Items]
Potential amount of future payments for guarantees, maximum	$ 3	$ 3	$ 3

Financial Instruments (Details

Financial Instruments (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives - Fair Value	$ 987	$ 17,057
Liability Derivatives - Fair Value	166	0
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Foreign Exchange Forward | Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives - Fair Value	473	1,640
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Foreign Exchange Forward | Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives - Fair Value	166	0
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Cross currency interest rate swaps | Other assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives - Fair Value	514	15,417
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Cross currency interest rate swaps | Other liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives - Fair Value	$ 0	0
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Minimum
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Period over which gains and losses are reclassified to earnings	10 years
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments | Maximum
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Period over which gains and losses are reclassified to earnings	15 years
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign Exchange Forward | Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives - Fair Value	$ 4,459	4,188
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign Exchange Forward | Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Liability Derivatives - Fair Value	$ 3,372	$ 1,738

Financial Instruments (Detail83

Financial Instruments (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivative - Effective Portion	$ 335	$ 11,544	$ (1,619)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income - Effective Portion	410	53	4
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative - Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing	4,042	30,359	39,823
Foreign Exchange Forward
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivative - Effective Portion	1,884	2,532	358
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative - Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing	0	0	0
Foreign Exchange Forward | Cost of services and products sold
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income - Effective Portion	410	53	4
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net [Abstract]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative for the Twelve Months Ended December 31	15,875	(158)	(2,307)
Cross currency interest rate swaps
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (OCI) on Derivative - Effective Portion	(1,549)	9,012	(1,977)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income - Effective Portion	0	0	0
Cross currency interest rate swaps | Cost of services and products sold
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative - Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing	$ 4,042	$ 30,359	$ 39,823

Financial Instruments (Detail84

Financial Instruments (Details 4) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Pre-tax net gains and losses on certain loans designated as hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries	$ 37,500,000	$ (2,700,000)	$ (22,600,000)
Proceeds from derivative transaction	16,625,000	75,057,000	$ 0
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	600,883,000	592,414,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	1,394,000	4,090,000
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Short [Member] | British pounds sterling
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	55,120,000	43,511,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	(228,000)	822,000
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Short [Member] | Euros
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	326,797,000	336,397,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	628,000	547,000
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Short [Member] | No currency
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	43,455,000	35,426,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	1,477,000	316,000
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Long [Member] | British pounds sterling
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	827,000	2,062,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	(14,000)	(54,000)
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Long [Member] | Euros
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	171,578,000	167,037,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	(468,000)	2,497,000
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts | Long [Member] | No currency
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	3,106,000	7,981,000
Recognized Gain (Loss)	(1,000)	$ (38,000)
Maturing 2013 through 2017 | Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Derivative [Line Items]
U.S. Dollar Equivalent	$ 2,700,000

Financial Instruments (Detail85

Financial Instruments (Details 5) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - Level 2 - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Assets - Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$ 4,932	$ 5,828
Assets - Cross-currency interest rate swaps	514	15,417
Liabilities - Foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$ 3,538	$ 1,738

Financial Instruments (Detail86

Financial Instruments (Details 6) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair value of long-term debt		$ 682,900		$ 834,600
Carrying value of long-term debt		673,410		880,835
Unit adjustment liability
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Issuances		(19,145)		0
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Equity Investments		(65,461)		0
Balance at beginning of year		79,934		93,762
Payments		0		(22,320)
Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability		4,672		8,491
Balance at end of year		0	[1]	79,934
Contingent Consideration for Acquisition [Member]
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	[1]	$ 79,934
Balance at end of year	[1]			$ 79,934
[1]	Does not total due to rounding.

Information by Segment and Ge87

Information by Segment and Geographic Area (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016segmentCustomer	Dec. 31, 2015Customer	Dec. 31, 2014Customer
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	3
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Number of major customers	1	2	2
Harsco Industrial
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Number of major customers	0	2	1
Harsco Rail
Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items]
Number of major customers	1	2	1

Information by Segment and Ge88

Information by Segment and Geographic Area (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers	$ 1,451,223	$ 1,723,092	$ 2,066,288
Property, plant and equipment, net	490,255	564,035	663,244
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers	614,327	758,820	880,884
Property, plant and equipment, net	125,386	142,506	151,397
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers	156,552	217,011	257,885
China
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	90,288	97,305	102,842
Brazil
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, net	62,597	57,381	69,515
All Other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers	680,344	747,261	927,519
Property, plant and equipment, net	$ 211,984	$ 266,843	$ 339,490

Information by Segment and Ge89

Information by Segment and Geographic Area (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 1,451,223	$ 1,723,092	$ 2,066,288
Operating income from continuing operations	63,469	88,536	69,287
Total assets	1,581,386	2,061,197	2,266,946
Depreciation and Amortization	141,486	156,475	176,326
Capital Expenditures	69,340	123,552	208,859
Interest income	2,475	1,574	1,702
Interest expense	(51,584)	(46,804)	(47,111)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	(35,337)	0	0
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability	(58,494)
Change in Fair Value of the Unit Adjustment Liability, exclusive of not making quarterly payments	(4,700)	(8,491)	(9,740)
Change in fair value to unit adjustment liability	(58,494)	(8,491)	(9,740)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss)	(79,471)	34,815	14,138
Segment operating income
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating income from continuing operations	87,289	134,205	115,022
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	965,540	1,106,162	1,378,142
Operating income from continuing operations	81,634	26,289	13,771
Total assets	1,181,755	1,294,673	1,476,538
Depreciation and Amortization	120,611	136,579	159,844
Capital Expenditures	62,322	99,563	187,665
Harsco Industrial
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	247,542	357,256	412,532
Operating income from continuing operations	23,182	57,020	64,114
Total assets	107,987	119,830	127,591
Depreciation and Amortization	7,223	6,266	4,928
Capital Expenditures	5,118	17,382	9,298
Harsco Rail
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	238,107	259,674	275,614
Operating income from continuing operations	(17,527)	50,896	37,137
Total assets	204,477	219,753	169,035
Depreciation and Amortization	5,383	6,093	5,591
Capital Expenditures	1,696	1,957	3,120
General Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total revenues	34	0	0
Operating income from continuing operations	(23,820)	(45,669)	(45,735)
Total assets	87,167	426,941	493,782
Depreciation and Amortization	8,269	7,537	5,963
Capital Expenditures	$ 204	$ 4,650	$ 8,776

Information by Segment and Ge90

Information by Segment and Geographic Area (Details 4) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	$ 1,451,223	$ 1,723,092	$ 2,066,288
Outsourced, on-site services to steel mills and other metals producers and resource recovery technologies for the re-use of industrial waste stream by-products
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	965,540	1,106,162	1,378,142
Railway track maintenance services and equipment
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	238,107	259,674	275,614
Air-cooled heat exchangers
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	115,914	129,869	139,711
Industrial grating products
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	93,616	186,243	226,529
Heat transfer products
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Consolidated Revenues	$ 38,012	$ 41,144	$ 46,292

Other Expenses (Details)

Other Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net gains	$ (1,764)	$ (10,613)	$ (6,718)
Employee termination benefit costs	10,777	14,914	19,120
Costs to exit activities	440	13,451	4,908
Impaired asset write-downs	399	8,170	39,455
Foreign currency gains related to Harsco Rail Segment advances on contracts	0	(10,940)	0
Metals and Minerals Separation Costs	3,235	9,922	0
Subcontractor settlement	0	4,220	0
Other expense	(467)	1,449	1,059
Total	12,620	30,573	57,824
Other Nonrecurring Expense		$ 7,000
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners		35.00%
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net gains	(1,828)	$ (7,059)	(3,538)
Employee termination benefit costs	8,491	11,454	18,169
Costs to exit activities	220	12,638	6,395
Impaired asset write-downs	399	8,170	38,791
Harsco Industrial
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net gains	64	(3,554)	(2,077)
Employee termination benefit costs	947	561	421
Costs to exit activities	40	0	0
Impaired asset write-downs	0	0	74
Harsco Rail
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Employee termination benefit costs	297	145	185
Impaired asset write-downs	0	0	590
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net gains	0		(1,103)
Employee termination benefit costs	1,042	2,754	345
Costs to exit activities	$ 180	$ 813	$ (1,487)
Minimum
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service Agreement, Payment Period		5 years
Maximum
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Service Agreement, Payment Period		7 years
Parent [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Other Nonrecurring Expense		$ 4,600

Components of Accumulated Oth92

Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	$ 310,803	$ 351,910	$ 597,555
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(141,106)	16,271
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee	1,844	(22,586)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	16,905	20,243
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment	(28,743)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(93,614)	13,928	(163,243)
Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,580	2,640
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	(91,034)	16,568
Balances	137,563	310,803	351,910
Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	(125,561)	(39,938)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(53,301)	(66,305)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee	1,943	(21,950)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	1,157	0
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment	(28,641)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(21,560)	(88,255)
Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,587	2,632
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	(18,973)	(85,623)
Balances	(144,534)	(125,561)	(39,938)
Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	(400)	(9,025)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(1,650)	9,796
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee	(405)	(1,232)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(263)	53
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment	(1,636)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(682)	8,617
Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(7)	8
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	(689)	8,625
Balances	(1,089)	(400)	(9,025)
Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	(389,696)	(483,278)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(86,181)	72,796
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee	306	596
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	16,011	20,190
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment	1,534
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(71,398)	93,582
Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	(71,398)	93,582
Balances	(461,094)	(389,696)	(483,278)
Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	(31)	(15)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	26	(16)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	0	0
Realized (gains) losses reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution of equity method investment	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	26	(16)
Less: Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation	26	(16)
Balances	(5)	(31)	(15)
Total
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Balances	(515,688)	(532,256)	(370,615)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(91,034)	16,568	(161,641)
Balances	$ (606,722)	$ (515,688)	$ (532,256)

Components of Accumulated Oth93

Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses	$ 200,391	$ 242,112	$ 284,737
Total costs and expenses	1,387,754	1,634,556	1,997,001
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity loss	(79,471)	34,815	14,138
Income tax expense	6,637	27,678	30,366
Net Loss	79,753	(6,332)	$ 17,676
Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment	(28,743)
Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment	1,534
Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment	(1,636)
Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment	(28,641)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total before tax	45,565
Income tax expense	(16,822)
Total amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with loss on dilution and sale of equity method investment	(28,743)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total costs and expenses	18,102	22,063
Income tax expense	(2,091)	(1,873)
Net Loss	16,011	20,190
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Amortization of Actuarial Losses
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses	8,490	15,810
Cost of services and products sold	9,005	5,984
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Amortization of Prior Service Costs
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses	(11)	121
Cost of services and products sold	263	148
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Settlement/Curtailment Losses [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Selling, general and administrative expenses	355	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total before tax	45,405
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total before tax	2,593
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Total before tax	(2,433)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward | Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Revenues	(408)	0
Cost of services and products sold	(2)	81
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity loss	(410)	81
Income tax expense	147	(28)
Net Loss	(263)	53
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Other Expenses	1,157	0
Income tax expense	0	0
Net Loss	$ 1,157	$ 0

Restructuring Programs (Details

Restructuring Programs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Project Orion Operational Savings - Min		$ 20,000
Project Orion Phase III Operational Savings - Max		25,000
Harsco Metals & Minerals Improvement Plan (Project Orion) [Member] | Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment | Employee termination benefit costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Accrual Beginning Balance	$ 5,807	7,668
Expense incurred		5,070
Other adjustments	(47)	(1,003)
Cash expenditures	(5,413)	(5,854)
Foreign currency translation	29	(74)
Remaining Accrual Ending Balance	$ 376	$ 5,807

SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QU95

SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 25,649		$ 15,119		$ 6,638
Charged to Cost and Expenses	(38)		13,047		9,892
Due to Currency Translation Adjustments	(320)		(1,585)		(969)
Other	(13,491)	[1]	(932)		(442)
Balance at End of Period	11,800		25,649		15,119
Deferred Tax Assets - Valuation Allowance
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	110,680		131,422		127,164
Charged to Cost and Expenses	38,490		13,175		24,332
Due to Currency Translation Adjustments	(6,323)		(11,519)		(9,254)
Other	3,250		(22,398)	[2]	(10,820)
Balance at End of Period	$ 146,097		110,680		$ 131,422
Pension adjustments
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Non-cash tax expense			(16,100)
Infrastructure Transaction
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Non-cash tax expense			(13,200)
UK tax rate changes
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Non-cash tax expense			$ 6,300
[1]	Includes the write-off of previously reserved accounts receivable balances.
[2]	Includes a decrease of $16.1 million related to pension adjustments recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and a $6.3 million decrease related to a U.K. tax rate change.