Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] BASIS OF PRESENTATION Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] SUBSEQUENT EVENT Subsequent Events [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of the entity's financial arrangements Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of redemption prices expressed as percentages of the principal amount Schedule of Debt Instrument Redemption Price [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure containing future redemption prices of a debt instrument expressed as a percentage of the principal amount. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of asset classification and estimated useful life Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Reportable segments Reportable Segment [Member] Technical Services Technical Services [Member] This element represents the Technical Services segment of the entity. Field Services Field Services [Member] This element represents the Field Services segment of the entity. Industrial Services Industrial Services [Member] This element represents the Industrial Services segment of the entity. Oil and Gas Field Services Oil and Gas Field Services [Member] This element represents the Oil and Gas Field Services segment of the entity. Exploration Services Exploration Services [Member] This element represents the Exploration services segment of the entity. Corporate Items Unallocated Amount to Segment [Member] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Yellowstone River [Member] Yellowstone River [Member] United States United States [Member] This element represents the United States segment of the entity. Canada Canada [Member] This element represents the Canada segment of the entity. Other foreign Other Foreign [Member] This element represents the other foreign segment of the entity. Yellowstone River MONTANA Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico [Member] This element represents the Gulf of Mexico segment of the entity. Michigan MICHIGAN Segment reporting information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Third party revenues Revenue from External Customers Intersegment revenues, net Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Direct revenues Revenues Adjusted EBITDA, Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization, Net This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization to the economic entity. Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Permits and other intangibles, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total Intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net Including Goodwill Sum of the carrying amounts of all intangible assets, including goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Total assets Assets Reconciliation to Consolidated Statements of Income: Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Accretion of environmental liabilities Accretion of Environmental Liabilities This element includes accretion expenditure that pertains to asset retirement obligations and environmental remediation. Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Income from operations Operating Income (Loss) Other income Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Loss on early extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense, net of interest income Interest Expense, Net This element represents the amount of interest expense, net of investment interest income. Income from continuing operations, before provision for income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Reporting segments number Reporting Segments Number The number of reportable segments of the entity. Number of operations for which the revenues are insignificant Number of Operations Not Managed by Reportable Segments This element represents the number of operations not managed by reportable segments. Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Peak Energy Services Ltd.'s ('Peak') Peak Energy Services Ltd.'s (Peak) [Member] Details pertaining to acquisition of Peak Energy Services Ltd.'s (Peak). Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Total Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Auction rate securities Long-term Investments Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Current Percentage of outstanding common shares of acquiree already owned by company (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage Ownership Of Acquiree Prior to Acquisition Represents the percentage of outstanding common shares of the acquiree already owned by the company. Gain (loss) on remeasurement of fair value, recognized in other income Marketable Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Fair value of ownership interest at acquisition-date Business Acquisition Ownership Interest Fair Value at Acquisition Represents the fair value of ownership of the entity at the acquisition date. Interest rate, resetting days (in days) Auction Market Preferred Securities, Stock Series, Rate Setting Interval Temporary decline in fair value of securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Unrealized pre-tax gain (loss) on auction rate securities Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) before Taxes Changes in the entity's auction rate securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Sale of auction rate securities Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Unrealized (losses) gains included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance at the end of the period FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted stock awards Restricted Stock Awards [Member] The element describes the details that pertain to restricted stock awards, which are granted by the entity, during the reporting period. Performance stock awards Performance Stock Awards [Member] The element describes the details that pertain to performance stock awards that are granted by the entity, during the reporting period. Performance stock 2011 awards Performance Stock 2011 Awards [Member] The element describes the details that pertain to 2011 performance stock awards that are granted by the entity, during the reporting period. Performance stock 2009 and 2010 awards Performance Stock 2009 and 2010 Awards [Member] The element describes the details that pertain to 2010 and 2009 performance stock awards that are granted by the entity during the reporting period. Common stock awards Common Stock Awards [Member] The element describes the details that pertain to common stock awards that are granted by the entity, during the reporting period. Awards granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Performance awards expenses Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Authorized stock split declared, number of shares per each share held Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of closure and post-closure liabilities Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Held For Sale Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Redeemable Debt Redemption [Axis] Redeemable Debt Redemption [Axis] Redeemable Debt Redemption [Domain] Redeemable Debt Redemption [Domain] Redeemable Debt Redemption Rate of 103 Percent [Member] Redeemable Debt Redemption Rate of 103 Percent [Member] Redeemable Debt Redemption Rate of 107.625 Percent [Member] Redeemable Debt Redemption Rate of 107.625 Percent [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior secured notes Senior Notes [Member] Revolving credit facility Line of Credit [Member] Letters of credit Letter of Credit [Member] Previous revolving credit facility Prior Line Of Credit [Member] Details pertaining to the prior line of credit facility which was replaced with a new facility. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Canadian subsidiaries Subsidiaries [Member] Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Axis] Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Axis] The alternative reference rates that may be used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Domain] Debt Instrument, Variable Rate Base [Domain] Identification of the reference rate that is used to calculate the variable interest rate of the debt instrument. LIBOR loans Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base On LIBOR Loans Member The base rate used to calculate the variable interest rate on the LIBOR loans. Base rate loans Debt Instrument Variable Rate Base On Base Rate Loans [Member] The base rate used to calculate the variable interest rate on the base rate loans. Financing arrangements Debt Instrument [Line Items] Maximum Amount Of Redeemable Debt Instruments prior to August 2012 at a Price of 103 Redeemable Debt Instrument Amount Redeemable Debt Instruments Amount Senior secured notes, at 7.625%, due on August 15, 2016 Long-term Debt, Gross Senior secured notes, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Revolving credit facility, due May 31, 2016 Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Unamortized notes premium and discount, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Long-term obligations Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Purchase price of debt instrument under purchase agreement (as a percent) Long-term Debt Purchase Price for The Purposes of Resale as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the purchase price of debt instrument as a percentage of the aggregate principal amount at which the debt instrument is priced under the purchase agreement for resale. Effective yield to maturity on debt instrument (as a percent) Long-term Debt Purchase Price for The Purposes of Resale Effective Yield to Maturity Represents the effective yield to maturity on debt instrument. Net proceeds from issuance and sale of new notes, after deducting initial purchasers' discount and estimated other transaction expenses Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Fair-value of outstanding long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable on or after September 29, 2011 but prior to August 15, 2012 (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption on or After September,2011 but Prior to August, 2012 as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of debt instruments that may be redeemed on or after September 29, 2011 but prior to August 15, 2012. 2012 redemption price as a percentage of the principle amount (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption, Price During Twelve Month Period, Commencing on August, 2012 as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on August 15, 2012. 2013 redemption price as a percentage of the principle amount (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price, During Twelve Month Period Commencing on August, 2013 as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on August 15, 2013. 2014 and thereafter redemption price as a percentage of the principle amount (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price During Twelve Month Period Commencing on August 2014 and There after as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be redeemed during the 12-month period commencing on August 15, 2014 and thereafter. Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable on or after September 29, 2011 but prior to August 15, 2012 (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price on or After September, 2011 but Prior to August, 2012 as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be redeemed on or after September 29, 2011 but prior to August 15, 2012. Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable prior to August 15, 2012 with net proceeds of certain equity offerings (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption With Net Proceeds from Equity offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of debt instruments that may be redeemed with net proceeds of certain equity offerings prior to August 15, 2012. Percentage of redemption price to principle amount (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price with Net Proceeds from Equity offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instruments may be redeemed with net proceeds of certain equity offerings prior to August 15, 2012. Percentage of principal amount at which the entity may redeem some or all of the notes prior to April 1, 2013 (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption, Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount, at which the entity may redeem some or all of the debt instruments prior to August 15, 2012. Percentage of principal amount at which notes may be required to be repurchased in event of change of control (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price Due to Change of Control as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be required to be redeemed in the event of a change of control of the company. Percentage of principal amount at which notes may be required to be repurchased in event of sale of assets under specified circumstances (as a percent) Long-term Debt Redemption Price Due to Sales of Certain Assets as Percentage of Principal Amount Represents the redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount at which the debt instrument may be required to be repurchased in the event of sale of assets under specified circumstances. Maximum number of days to declare shelf registration statement effective from the date of specific events (in days) Debt Instrument Maximum Number of Days Following Date of Specified Event, for Shelf Registration Statement to be Declared Effective Represents the maximum number of days after the date of the specified event, in which the entity is to use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shelf registration statement to be declared effective giving rise to the requirement to file the shelf registration statement for the resale of the debt instruments. Number of subsidiaries to be added as a party to the facility Line of Credit Facility Number of Subsidiaries Added as Party Represents the number of subsidiaries of the entity, added as parties to the credit facility. Variable interest rate, basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Applicable margin on variable interest rate basis, low end of range (as a percent) Debt Instrument Basis Spread on Variable Rate Low End of Range Minimum percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. Applicable margin on variable interest rate basis, high end of range (as a percent) Debt Instrument Basis Spread on Variable Rate High End of Range Maximum percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Guarantor and Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Financial Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of condensed consolidating balance sheet Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed consolidating balance sheet normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. Schedule of consolidating statement of income Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed statement of operations normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. Schedule of condensed consolidating statement of cash flows Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the condensed statement of cash flows normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of changes to goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of amortizable other intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Total amounts assigned and the weighted average amortization period, by major intangible asset classes, related to the Peak acquisition Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of expected amortization for the net carrying amount of finite lived intangible assets Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share: Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Denominator: Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Basic shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of equity-based compensation awards (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Dilutive shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Basic earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Income from discontinued operations, net of tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Income from discontinued operations, net of tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Outstanding performance stock awards Outstanding Stock Awards [Member] Stock options Stock Options [Member] Antidilutive securities Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities not included in calculation of earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Authorized stock split distributed, number of shares per each share held Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Distributed Conversion Ratio Number of shares issued to stockholders as a result of a stock split during the period for each share held by stockholders as of the record date. Common stock, authorized shares, prior to increase (in shares) Common Stock, Number of Shares Authorized, Prior to Increase Represents the maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by the entity's charter and bylaws, prior to increase by the stockholders of the company. Common stock, Authorized shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Number of operating segments Operating Segments Number Represents the number of operating segments of the entity. Summary of the total number, weighted average grant-date fair value, and types of awards granted Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Fair value of assets measured on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Changes in auction rate securities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] GUARANTOR AND NON-GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES FINANCIAL INFORMATION Condensed Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors and Non Guarantors Disclosure [Text Block] This element represents the disclosure of the condensed financial statements (balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows), normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. The line items are the various captions used to compile the condensed financial statements. Using extensions, most, if not all, of the elements representing condensed financial statement captions will be the same as those used for the consolidated financial statements captions. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Text Block] This element may be used to describe all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity, an entity's explanation that the preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of management estimates and the impact of recently issued accounting standards. SEGMENT REPORTING Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Environmental Contingencies [Table] Environmental Contingencies [Table] Discloses the specific components (such as the nature, name, and date) of the environmental contingencies and gives the possible estimates, or states that a reasonable estimate cannot be made. Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Quantifies and describes each contingency that exists as of the balance sheet date, by nature of the probable or possible estimates. Contingency Nature [Domain] Contingency Nature [Domain] An existing condition, situation, or a set of circumstances, which involve uncertainty as to the possible outcomes to an enterprise that will ultimately be resolved, when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Resolution of the uncertainty may confirm the incurrence of a loss or profit or the incurrence of a liability. Legal and Administrative Proceedings Legal and Administrative Proceedings [Member] Represents the actual or potential liabilities that are related to the legal and administrative proceedings. Ville Mercier Ville Mercier [Member] Represents the details that pertain to the Ville Mercier. Deer Trail, Colorado Facility Deer Trail, Colorado Facility [Member] Represents the details that pertain to Deer Trail Colorado Facility. Superfund Proceedings Superfund Proceedings [Member] Represents the indemnification obligations under federal or state Superfund laws. Wichita Property Wichita Property [Member] Represents the details that pertain to Wichita Property. Casmalia Site Casmalia Site [Member] Represents the details that pertain to the Casmalia Site. Marine Shale Site Marine Shale Site [Member] Represents the details that pertain to the Marine Shale Site. Certain Other Third Party Sites Certain Other Third Party Sites [member] Represents the details that pertain to Certain Other Third Party Sites. Breslube-Penn Site Breslube-Penn Site [Member] Represents the details that pertain to the Breslube Penn Site. Federal and State Enforcement Actions Federal and State Enforcement Actions [Member] The regulatory proceedings that are relating primarily to waste treatment, storage or disposal facilities. Other Contingencies Other Contingencies [Member] Represents the other contingencies, not otherwise specified by the entity. Guarantees Guarantees [Member] Contingencies Contingencies [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Legal and Administrative Proceedings Legal and Administrative Proceedings [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Reserves relating to legal and administrative proceedings Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value Reserves relating to legal and administrative proceedings Loss Contingency, Range of Loss The estimated minimum amount of possible loss from the federal and state enforcement actions. Possible increase in legal and administrative proceedings Loss Contingency Accrual at Carrying Value Potential Additional Liability The amount as of the balance sheet date of potential needed increase in the loss contingency reserves. Number of permits issued by government, for dumping organic liquid Number of Permits Issued by Government to Dump Organic Liquid The number of permits that are granted by the government in relation to environmental liabilities. Number of neighboring municipalities filing separate legal proceedings against the Mercier Subsidiary and the Government of Quebec Number of Neighboring Municipalities Filing Separate Legal Proceedings This element represents the number of municipalities other than Ville Mercier that filed legal proceedings against the Mercier Subsidiary. Number of municipalities filing separate legal proceedings, total Number of Total Municipalities Filing Separate Legal Proceedings This element represents the total number of municipalities that filed legal proceedings against the Mercier Subsidiary. Damages claimed by municipalities Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Suit against alleged past costs Loss Contingency, Actions Taken by Plaintiff Value This element represents the suit against recovery of alleged past costs. Accrued remedial liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Number of lawsuits filed Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Number of additional lawsuits filed Loss Contingency, Additional Claims Filed Number The total number of additional claims that are filed, and which pertain to a loss contingency during the period. Superfund Proceedings Superfund Proceedings [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Number of sites subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws Site Contingency, Number of Sites The number of sites that are subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws brought against the company or against third parties for which the company may have certain indemnification obligations. Number of sites owned by the entity subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws Site Contingency, Number of Sites Owned by Entity The number of sites that are subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws that are owned by the entity. Number of sites owned by third parties subject to proceedings under federal or state Superfund laws Site Contingency, Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites owned by third parties subject to proceedings under federal or state Superfund laws for which the company or the prior owners shipped wastes. Third party sites arising out of acquisition of assets Site Contingency, Cleanup Costs Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites for which cleanup costs are incurred subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws owned by third party. Third party sites requiring expenditure on remediation Site Contingency, Environmental Remediation Expense Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites for which environmental remediation expense is incurred subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws owned by third party. Third party sites requiring expenditure on remediation being contested by the entity Site Contingency, Environmental Remediation Expense Number of Sites Owned by Third Party Contested by Entity The number of sites for which environmental remediation expense is incurred subject to proceedings under federal or state superfund laws owned by the third party and contested by the entity. Number of sites for which environmental remediation expense is settled Site Contingency, Environmental Remediation Expense Settled Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites owned by the third party for which environmental remediation expense is settled. Number of sites for which environmental remediation expense is not required Site Contingency, Not Requiring Environmental Remediation Expense Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites owned by the third party for which environmental remediation expense is not required. Number of sites owned by third party excluded from cleanup or related liabilities Site Contingency, Number of Sites Owned by Third Party Excluded from Cleanup or Related Liabilities The number of sites owned by third party excluded from cleanup or related liabilities under the terms of the CSD asset acquisition. State-designated superfund site acquired, total acres Site Contingency, Area Acquired by Entity The total acres of the state-designated superfund site acquired by the entity. Notices received from owners of third party sites seeking indemnification from the company Site Contingency, Notice Received Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of notices received from owners of third party sites related to the CSD assets seeking indemnification from the company. Third party sites where EPA requested information on prior owner Site Contingency EPA Information Request Received Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites owned by the third party for which the company has received an EPA information request about prior owners. Remaining reserves relating to listed third party sites Site Contingency, Remaining Reserves The remaining reserves relating to listed third party site. Indemnification agreement with third party sites Site Contingency, Indemnification Agreement Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites for which the company has an indemnification agreement from the third party seller. Additional cleanup liabilities, maximum Site Contingency, Loss Exposure in Excess of Accrual, Best Estimate Suit against listed third party sites Site Contingency, Suit Filed Number of Sites Owned by Third Party The number of sites owned by the third party for which the suit is filed. Federal and State Enforcement Actions Federal and State Enforcement Actions [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Number of proceedings relating to waste treatment Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Sanctions relating to waste treatment Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Loss Contingency, Claims Settled and Dismissed, Number Loss Contingency, Claims Settled and Dismissed, Number Other Contingencies Other Contingencies [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Payment to acquire minority interest in a privately-held company Payments to Acquire Minority Interest in Privately Held Company Represents the amount paid to acquire minority interest in a privately-held company. Proceeds from irrevocable call right exercised by the privately-held company on shares held Proceeds From Irrevocable Call Right Exercised by the Privately Held Company Represents the amount received from the privately-held company in which the entity holds noncontrolling interest, due to the exercise of irrevocable call right on shares held by the entity. Guarantees Guarantees [Abstract] Third party contractor payments guaranteed, outstanding Significant Purchase Commitment, Amount Committed Outstanding The outstanding amount of third party payments guaranteed by the entity. Guaranty liabilities, maximum Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Guaranty liabilities, revised Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Amount for accrued liability Guaranty Liabilities Maximum amount of the potential shortfall bonus Potential Shortfall Bonus Estimated maximum Shortfall Bonus payable by the company on December 31, 2011. Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Other intangible assets Other Intangible Assets [Member] Non-compete agreements Noncompete Agreements [Member] Peak Other Acquisitions Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] Acquired finite-lived intangible assets Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Total Amount Assigned Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years) Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted Average Useful Life Expected amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] 2011 (three months) Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Future Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Accrued Expenses [ABSTRACT] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Accrued expenses Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of third party revenues to direct revenues Schedule of Segment Revenues [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the direct revenues for each reportable segment, including a reconciliation to consolidated third party revenues. Reconciliation to consolidated statements of income to adjusted EBITDA Schedule of Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted Earnings before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization Consolidated [Table Text Block] This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure of the identification, description, and amounts of all significant reconciling items used in the reconciliation of net income to adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of continuing operations. PP&E and intangible assets by segment Schedule of Segment PPE and Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets for each reportable segment, including a reconciliation to consolidated amounts. Total assets by segment Schedule of Segment Total Assets [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of total assets for each reportable segment, including a reconciliation to consolidated amounts. Total assets by geographical area Schedule of Total Assets by Geographical Area [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of total assets by geographical area, including a reconciliation to consolidated amounts. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Changes to goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Acquired from acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Balance at the end of the period Decrease from adjustments related to the Eveready acquisition during the measurement period Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Permits Permits [Member] The description that pertains to the permits. Finite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Weighted Average Amortization Period (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Amortization Useful Life This element represents the weighted average amortization period. Aggregate amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] The Company's effective tax rate (including taxes on income from discontinued operations) (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate A ratio calculated by dividing the reported amount of income tax expense attributable to continuing and discontinued operations for the period by GAAP-basis pretax income from continuing and discontinued operations. Decrease in effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions Unrecognized tax benefits and related reserves including interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Interest and Penalties The amount of unrecognized tax benefits including interest and penalties pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns as of the balance sheet date. Unrecognized tax benefits, interest Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Unrecognized tax benefits, penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued Anticipated decrease in unrecognized tax benefits (including interest and penalties) in the next twelve months Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits Including Interest and Penalties is Reasonably Possible Amount of Unrecorded Benefit The amount of the unrecognized tax benefit including interest and penalties of a position taken for which it is reasonably possible that the total amount thereof will significantly increase or decrease within twelve months of the balance sheet date. Anticipated decrease in interest and penalties included in unrecognized tax benefits, in the next twelve months Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expected to Reverse The amount of interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefit for which it is reasonably possible to change within twelve months of the balance sheet date. ACCRUED EXPENSES Accrued Expenses Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for accrued expenses at the end of the reporting period. Property, Plant and Equipment (excluding landfill assets) Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Summary of the preliminary purchase price for Peak at the acquisition date Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Summary of recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Unaudited pro forma combined summary data as if Peak had been acquired at the beginning of the periods presented Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Combined Information [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of unaudited pro forma combined summary data presenting information as if the acquiree had been acquired at the beginning of the periods presented. Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Clean Harbors, Inc. Parent Company [Member] U.S. Guarantor Subsidiaries Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Foreign Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Condensed consolidating statement of cash flows Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Net cash from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Additions to property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Additions to intangible assets, including costs to obtain or renew permits Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Purchase of available for sale securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from sales of fixed assets and assets held for sale Proceeds from Sales of Fixed Assets and Assets Held for Sale Cash inflow from sale or disposal of property, plant, and equipment and assets held for sale, during the reporting period. This element refers to proceeds from such sale or disposal. Proceeds from sales of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Proceeds from sale of long-term investments Proceeds from Sale of Long-term Investments Proceeds from insurance settlement Proceeds from Insurance Settlement Cash received from insurance settlement during the current period. Investment in subsidiaries Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Change in uncashed checks Increase (Decrease) in Outstanding Checks, Financing Activities Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Excluding Stock Options Remittance of shares, net Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Excess tax benefit of stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Deferred financing costs paid Payments of Financing Costs Payments on capital leases Repayment of Capital Lease Obligation The cash outflow for a borrowing that was recorded for a lease meeting the criteria for capitalization (with maturities within one year or more). It includes both short-term and long-term capital lease obligations. Principal payment on debt Payments of Principal on Debt Payments of Principal on Debt Distribution of cash earned on employee participation plan Distributions Earned on Employee Participation Plan The cash outflow that is related to a cash and stock employee incentive award plan. Issuance of senior secured notes, including premium Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt Dividends (paid) / received Dividends Paid The cash outflow from the entity's earnings to the shareholders. This includes dividends paid to noncontrolling interests holders. Interest (payments) / received Payments for Proceeds from Interest The interest paid or received on loans and other debt instruments during the current period. Intercompany debt Proceeds from Intercompany Debt This element represents the proceeds from intercompany debt. Net cash from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Intercompany financing Proceeds from Intercompany Financing This element represents the proceeds from intercompany financing. Effect of exchange rate change on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Consolidating Adjustments Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidating statement of income Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Revenues Cost of revenues (exclusive of items shown separately below) Cost of Services Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Income from operations Other income Loss on early extinguishment of debt Interest (expense) income Equity in earnings of subsidiaries Income (Loss) from Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Company Represents the income (loss) from affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Intercompany dividend income (expense) Net Dividend Income from Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Company Represents the net dividend income from affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Intercompany interest income (expense) Net Interest Income from Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Company Represents the net interest income from affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Income from continuing operations, before provision for income taxes Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income from discontinued operations, net of tax Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Table] Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Table] The schedule that reflects each closure and post-closure liabilities, during the period. Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Axis] Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Axis] The information about each closure and post-closure liabilities during the period. Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Domain] Closure and Post-closure Liabilities [Domain] The listing of liabilities, which pertains to closure and post-closure liabilities. Landfill Retirement Liability Landfill Retirement Liability [Member] Represents the asset retirement obligations for landfill liability. Non-Landfill Retirement Liability Non-Landfill Retirement Liability [Member] Represents the asset retirement obligations for non-landfill liability. CLOSURE AND POST-CLOSURE LIABILITIES Closure and Post Closure Liabilities [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Changes to post-closure liabilities Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Asset Retirement Obligation Liabilities assumed in acquisitions Asset Retirement Obligations, Liabilities Assumed in Acquisitions Asset Retirement Obligations, Liabilities Assumed in Acquisitions New asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Accretion Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Changes in estimates recorded to statement of income Asset Retirement Obligation, Changes Recorded in Statement of Income The amount of change in the asset retirement obligation, during the current period, for changes in estimates recorded in the statement of income. Other changes in estimates recorded to balance sheet Asset Retirement Obligation Other Changes Recorded in Balance Sheet Represents the amount of change in the asset retirement obligation, during the current period for other changes in estimates recorded in the balance sheet. Settlement of obligations Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Currency translation and other Asset Retirement Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation and Other The total amount of the increase or decrease in the amount of asset retirement obligations for the period that is associated with foreign currency translation (to the extent that the entity accounts for the foreign currency effects as a separate component of the change in the liability) and other asset retirement obligations. Balance at the end of the period Credit-adjusted risk-free rate (as a percent) Credit Adjusted Risk Free Rate The rate applied to the undiscounted amount of new asset retirement obligations that are expected to arrive at the present value and that are recorded as of the balance sheet date. Inflation rate (as a percent) Inflation Rate The inflation rate that is applied to the amount of new asset retirement obligations, which are expected to arrive at the present value and that are recorded as of the balance sheet date. Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Amortization of deferred financing costs and debt discount Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Changes in environmental liability estimates Other Increase (Decrease) in Environmental Liabilities Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Excess tax benefit of stock-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Income tax benefit related to stock option exercises Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised Gains on sales of businesses Gain on Sales of Businesses The gains or losses included in earnings resulting from the sale of businesses during the period. Other income Gain (Loss) on Sale of Fixed Assets and Assets Held for Sale The difference between the sale price or salvage price and the book value of a property, plant, and equipment and assets held for sale, that was sold or retired during the reporting period. This element refers to the gain (loss). Write-off deferred financing costs and debt discount Write-off Deferred Financing Costs and Debt Discount Write-off Deferred Financing Costs and Debt Discount Environmental expenditures Payments for Environmental Liabilities Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash from operating activities Purchase of available for sale securities Net cash used in investing activities Proceeds from sale of business Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses and Interests in Affiliates Write-off of deferred financing costs and debt discount Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Supplemental information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash payments for interest and income taxes: Cash Payments for Interest and Income Taxes [Abstract] Description and amounts of long lived assets and liabilities held for sale. Disclosure may include the description of the facts and circumstances leading to the expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the carrying value of the assets and liabilities held for sale, the gain or loss recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain or loss. Interest paid Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment accrued Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Assets Acquired Assets acquired through capital lease Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Issuance of acquisition-related common stock, net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Liabilities assumed in acquisition Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Liabilities Assumed Issuance of Clean Harbors common stock for Eveready common shares Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned Distribution of noncontrolling interest Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Payment on acquired debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Proceeds from exercise of warrants Proceeds from Warrant Exercise The cash inflow from exercise of warrants to purchase common shares at a predetermined price (usually issued together with corporate debt). Principal payment on debt Early Repayment of Senior Debt Senior secured notes issued, aggregate principal amount Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Idling of Hazardous Waste Incinerator [Member] Idling of Hazardous Waste Incinerator [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Shares Held Under Employee Participation Plan Shares Held Under Employee Participation Plan [Member] Common stock held in a trust that has been set up specifically to accumulate stock for the sole purpose of distribution to participating employees but not yet earned. Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance (in shares) Shares, Issued Change in fair value of available for sale securities, net of taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of restricted shares, net of shares remitted Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of restricted shares, net of shares remitted (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Exercise of stock options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Net tax benefit on exercise of stock options Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Employee stock purchase plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee stock purchase plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Balance Balance (in shares) Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Period Increase (Decrease) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Period Increase (Decrease) Issuance of acquisition-related common stock, net of issuance costs Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Issuance of acquisition-related common stock, net of issuance costs (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Shares held under employee participation plan Shares Held under Employee Participation Plan. Value of common stock held in a trust that has been set up specifically to accumulate stock for the sole purpose of distribution to participating employees but not yet earned. Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract] Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency by Nature [Axis] Site Contingency by Nature [Axis] Site Contingency, Nature of Contingency [Domain] Site Contingency, Nature of Contingency [Domain] Remedial Liabilities for Landfill Sites Remedial Liabilities for Landfill Sites [Member] This element represents the details that pertain to the remedial liability for landfill sites. Remedial Liabilities for Inactive Sites Remedial Liabilities for Inactive Sites [Member] This element represents the details that pertain to the remedial liabilities for inactive sites. Remedial Liabilities (Including Superfund) for Non-Landfill Operations Remedial Liabilities (Including Superfund) for Non-Landfill Operations [Member] This element represents the details that pertain to the remedial liabilities for non-landfill sites. Remedial liabilities Site Contingency [Line Items] Changes to remedial liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Liabilities assumed in acquisitions Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Acquisitions and Divestitures Accretion Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Provision for New Losses Changes in estimates recorded to statement of income Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Revision in Estimates Settlement of obligations Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments Currency translation and other Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Currency Translation and Other The increase or decrease in the accrual for environmental loss contingencies, during the reporting period that is related to currency translations and other adjustments. Balance at the end of the period BUSINESS COMBINATIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] CLOSURE AND POST-CLOSURE LIABILITIES Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Buildings and building improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Buildings Building [Member] Land, leasehold and building improvements Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Camp Equipment Camp Equipment [Member] Represents the industrial lodging facilities that are utilized in the entity's Industrial Services segment to provide lodging services to companies in the refinery and petrochemical industries. Vehicles Vehicles [Member] Equipment Equipment [Member] Capitalized software and computer equipment Computer Equipment [Member] Solar equipment Solar Equipment [Member] Represents the long-lived, depreciable asset which consists of a solar array that is used to provide electric power for a continuously operating groundwater decontamination pump and treatment system at a closed and capped landfill. Containers and railcars Railroad Transportation Equipment [Member] All other equipment All Other Equipment [member] Represents the long-lived, depreciable assets used to produce goods and services. Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment (excluding landfill assets): Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Estimated useful life, minimum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Estimated useful life, maximum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Weighted average life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Average Interest capitalized to fixed assets Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period Depreciation and amortization expense, property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Depreciation and Amortization Represents the expense recognized in the current period, which allocates the cost of property, plant and equipment to periods that benefit from use of the assets. Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Badger Daylighting Ltd. ("Badger") Badger Daylighting Ltd. [Member] Details pertaining to acquisition of Badger Daylighting Ltd. ("Badger"). Business Combinations Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Outstanding common shares acquired (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Cash paid in exchange for acquisition Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash paid per share in exchange for acquisition (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Per Share The amount of cash and cash equivalents acquired per share in a business combination. Fair value of consideration transferred Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Debt assumed in exchange of acquisition Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Estimated net amount due to the sellers for working capital adjustments Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Exchange rate translation Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Translation Number of employees Business Acquisition, Number of Employees of Acquiree Entity Number of employees of the acquiree company. Summary of consideration paid at the acquisition date Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price [Abstract] Cash Consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Fair value of previously owned common shares Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Other Noncash Consideration Net debt assumed Total consideration for acquisition Gain loss recognized in other income previously held as common shares Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain (Loss), Net Fair value of common shares in acquiree Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Cash payments to holders of in-the-money stock options Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Cash Paid for in the Money Stock Options Represents the amount of cash paid to holders of in-the-money stock options of acquiree. Cash assumed for repayment of outstanding debt Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Cash and Cash Equivalents Assumed for Debt Repayment Represents the amount of cash and cash equivalents assumed in a business combination for repaying debt of acquired entity. Number of term loan facilities Number of Term Loan Facilities Represents the number of term loan facilities. Acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Summary of recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Summary of Recognised Amounts of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities Assumed [Roll Forward] Summary of Recognised Amounts of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities Assumed [Roll Forward] Current assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets Property, plant and equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Identifiable intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Other assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Current liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities Other liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Total identifiable net assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Identifiable Assets, Net Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to identifiable net assets, excluding goodwill. Goodwill Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Total Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Identifiable Intangibles Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Identifiable Intangibles This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to Identifiable intangibles acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Other Assets Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Other Assets This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to other assets acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Current Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Asset Retirement Obligations Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Asset Retirement Obligations This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Other Liabilities Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Other Liabilities This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Identifiable Net Assets Business Combination Provisional Information Initial Accounting Incomplete Adjustment Identifiable Net Assets This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Current assets, (As adjusted) Property, plant and equipment, (As adjusted) Identifiable intangible assets ( As adjusted) Other assets (As adjusted) Current liabilities (As adjusted) Other liabilities (As adjusted) Total identifiable net assets Goodwill (As adjusted) Total (As adjusted) Customer receivables, gross amount due Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets, Customer Receivables Gross Amount Due Represents the gross amount due of customer receivables acquired. Revenues attributable to acquiree, included in the Company's consolidated statements of income Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Unaudited pro forma combined summary data Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Pro forma combined revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Pro forma combined net income Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Diluted earnings per share Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Business Acquisition, Minimum Affirmative Percentage of Acquirees Shareholders Vote Required for Acquisition Approval Represents the minimum affirmative voting percentage of acquiree shareholders required for the approval of acquisition transaction. Maximum amount of obligation of acquiree to reimburse the out of pocket expenses incurred Business Acquisition, Acquirees Obligation to Reimburse Out of Pocket Expenses Amount Represents the amount of obligation of acquiree to reimburse the out of pocket expenses incurred in connection with the proposed acquisition transaction. Reimbursement received from acquiree Business Acquisition, Out of Pocket Expenses Reimbursed by Acquiree Represents the amount of reimbursement received from acquiree in accordance with this provision of the acquisition agreement. Approximate number of fleet of custom-built hydrovac units Business Acquisition, Number of Fleet of Acquiree Entity Approximate number of fleet of custom-built hydrovac units owned by the acquiree company. Net income attributable to Peak, included in the Company's consolidated statements of income Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Redemption price as a percentage of the principal amount Term Loan Facilities, Percentage of Redemption Price of Principal Amount The redemption price expressed as a percentage of the principal amount of term loan facilities. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Asset Retirement Obligations and Remedial Liabilities Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Asset Retirement Obligations and Remedial Liabilities Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Asset Retirement Obligations and Remedial Liabilities INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, net of allowances aggregating $14,285 and $23,704, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Unbilled accounts receivable Unbilled Accounts Receivable, Current The aggregate amount of unbilled receivables due for services rendered or to be rendered at the financial statement date, which are usually due within one year (or one business cycle). Deferred costs Deferred Finance Costs, Current, Net Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets, Current This element represents current portion of prepaid expenses and other assets. Supplies inventories Supplies Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Assets held for sale Assets Held-for-sale, Current Property, plant and equipment: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Land Land Asset retirement costs (non-landfill) Capitalized Costs, Asset Retirement Costs Landfill assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Buildings and improvements Buildings and Improvements, Gross Camp equipment Camp Equipment, Gross Facilities constructed for employee use in remote locations, consisting of trailers with corridors, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and leasehold improvements. Vehicles Vehicles, Gross Carrying amount at the balance sheet date for long lived, depreciable assets used primarily for transportation. Equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Furniture and fixtures Furniture and Fixtures, Gross Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less-accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total property, plant and equipment, net Other assets: Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term investments Deferred financing costs Deferred Finance Costs, Noncurrent, Net Permits and other intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $68,531 and $60,633, respectively Other Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Assets, Noncurrent, Excluding Property, Plant and Equipment Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets (excluding property, plant and equipment) that are expected to be realized in cash, sold or consumed after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Total assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Current Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Current portion of closure, post-closure and remedial liabilities Accrued Capping, Closure, Post Closure and Remedial Liabilities, Current The amount of estimated costs accrued as of the balance sheet date to comply with regulatory requirements pertaining to the retirement of a waste management facility (such as a landfill or waste treatment facility) and to remediate one or more sites. Represents the portion that will be paid within one year. Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Liabilities held for sale Liabilities of Assets Held-for-sale Uncashed checks Outstanding Checks, Current This element represents liability of checks that have been issued but that have not cleared. Other liabilities: Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Closure and post-closure liabilities, less current portion of $5,086 and $5,849, respectively Accrued Capping, Closure, Post-closure and Environmental Costs, Noncurrent Remedial liabilities, less current portion of $10,813 and $8,669, respectively Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Capital lease obligations, less current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Unrecognized tax benefits and other long-term liabilities Unrecognized Tax Benefits and Other Long-term Liabilities, Noncurrent The noncurrent portion of the amount that is recognized for the unrecognized tax benefits and other long-term liabilities as of the balance sheet date. Total other liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock, $.01 par value: Common Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Authorized 80,000,000; shares issued and outstanding 53,038,399 and 52,772,392 shares, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Treasury stock Treasury Stock, Value Shares held under employee participation plan Common Stock Issued, Employee Trust, Deferred Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders' equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Insurance Accrued Insurance, Current Interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued disposal costs Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities Accrued compensation and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Income, real estate, sales and other taxes Taxes Payable, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued expenses REMEDIAL LIABILITIES Environmental Loss Contingency Disclosure [Text Block] Changes to remedial liabilities Schedule of Environmental Loss Contingencies by Site [Table Text Block] EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Income from operations Other income (loss) Interest expense, net of interest income of $153 and $700 for the quarter and year-to-date ended 2011 and $297 and $564 for the quarter and year-to-date ended 2010, respectively Income from continuing operations Net income Earnings per share: Basic (in dollars per share) Diluted (in dollars per share) Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted average common shares outstanding plus potentially dilutive common shares (in shares) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Reconciliation of basic and diluted earnings per share computations Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Condensed consolidating balance sheet Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Intercompany receivables Receivables from Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Companies This element represents receivables from affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Other current assets Other Assets, Current Investments in subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Intercompany debt receivable Debt Receivable from Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Companies This element represents debts receivable from the affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Other long-term assets Current liabilities Intercompany payables Payables to Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Companies This element represents payables to affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Closure, post-closure and remedial liabilities, net Closure Post Closure and Remedial Liabilities, Net The net amount of closure, post-closure and remedial liabilities that is required as of the balance sheet date, which will be paid after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Capital lease obligations, net Intercompany debt payable Debt Payable to Affiliates Subsidiaries and Holding Companies This element represents the debts payable to the affiliates, subsidiaries and the holding company. Other long-term liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities Stockholders' equity Senior secured notes redeemed Repayments of Debt Percentage of long-term debt redeemed Repayment of Debt Percentage This element represents the percentage of long-term debt redeemed. Interest expense, interest income Investment Income, Interest Accounts receivable, allowances aggregating Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Permits and other intangibles, accumulated amortization Closure and post-closure liabilities, current portion Accrued Capping, Closure, Post-closure and Environmental Costs Remedial liabilities, current portion Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, issued shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, outstanding shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] Document and Entity Information[Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Amendment Description Amendment Description Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items]