HARSCO CORP
10-Q, 1998-11-03
FABRICATED STRUCTURAL METAL PRODUCTS
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<PAGE>   1
                                  UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C. 20549

                                    FORM 10-Q

       [ X ]    QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15 (d)
                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 1998

                                       OR

      [    ]    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d)
                     OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                        Commission File Number 1-3970

                               HARSCO CORPORATION
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

             Delaware                                    23-1483991
     (State of incorporation)               (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)


          Camp Hill, Pennsylvania                            17001-8888
 (Address of principal executive offices)                    (Zip Code)

Registrant's Telephone Number     (717) 763-7064


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES  X         NO

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Title of Each Class              Outstanding Shares at September 30, 1998
- -------------------              ----------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>
Common Stock Par Value $1.25                 44,449,995
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights              44,449,995
</TABLE>


                                      -1-
<PAGE>   2
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                   CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
                                   (Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended
                                                       September 30          September 30
(In thousands, except per share amounts)             1998       1997        1998       1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>
REVENUES:
   Product sales                                 $218,330   $209,686   $649,815    $638,711
   Service sales                                  227,328    197,313    653,136     585,251
   Other                                              492        427      1,364       1,217
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     TOTAL REVENUES                               446,150    407,426  1,304,315   1,225,179
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COSTS AND EXPENSES:
   Cost of products sold                          167,062    159,272    494,914     487,326
   Cost of services sold                          174,960    147,739    497,765     440,647
   Selling, general and administrative             52,606     52,971    158,263     159,647
   expenses
   Research and development expenses                1,764      1,562      4,570       3,695
   Facilities discontinuance and                    2,026        178      2,314       3,233
   reorganization costs
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     TOTAL COSTS AND EXPENSES                     398,418    361,722  1,157,826   1,094,548
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE
       INTEREST, INCOME TAXES, AND MINORITY        47,732     45,704    146,489     130,631
       INTEREST

Interest income                                     1,358      1,079      6,783       3,521
Interest expense                                   (5,589)    (4,148)   (14,143)    (12,661)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE
       INCOME TAXES AND MINORITY INTEREST          43,501     42,635    139,129     121,491

Provision for income taxes                         16,096     13,339     51,478      46,167
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE
       MINORITY INTEREST                           27,405     29,296     87,651      75,324

Minority interest in net income                     1,461      1,555      4,291       4,701
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS             25,944     27,741     83,360      70,623

Income from discontinued defense business
     (net of income taxes of $3,523 and
     $13,389 respectively)                              -      5,487          -      29,117
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET INCOME                                       $ 25,944   $ 33,228   $ 83,360    $ 99,740
============================================================================================

Average shares of common stock outstanding         45,782     48,724     46,300      49,104

Basic earnings per common share:
   Income from continuing operations             $     .57  $     .57  $    1.80   $    1.44
   Income from discontinued operations                  -         .11         -          .59
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE                  $     .57  $     .68  $    1.80   $    2.03
============================================================================================

Diluted earnings per common share
   Income from continuing operations             $     .56  $     .56  $    1.78   $    1.42
   Income from discontinued operations                  -         .11         -          .59
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE                $     .56  $     .67  $    1.78   $    2.01
============================================================================================
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


                                      -2-
<PAGE>   3
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION


ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

                      CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                                   (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               SEPTEMBER 30        DECEMBER 31
(In thousands)                                                     1998               1997
<S>                                                            <C>                 <C>
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
   Cash and cash equivalents                                   $    67,100         $   221,565
   Investments in debt securities                                      -                43,867
   Receivables                                                     343,888             259,565
   Inventories:
     Finished goods                                                 44,327              27,639
     Work in process                                                38,453              27,979
     Raw material and purchased parts                               67,305              60,982
     Stores and supplies                                            25,110              18,554
                                                               -----------         -----------
        Total inventories                                          175,195             135,154
   Other current assets                                             57,233              53,501
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS                                          643,416             713,652
                                                               -----------         -----------
Property, plant and equipment, at cost                           1,423,695           1,202,783
Allowance for depreciation                                        (811,640)           (690,870)
                                                               -----------         -----------
                                                                   612,055             511,913
                                                               -----------         -----------
Cost in excess of net assets of companies acquired, net            260,127             187,666
Other assets                                                       119,771              63,957
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL ASSETS                                              $ 1,635,369         $ 1,477,188
                                                               ===========         ===========

LIABILITIES
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
   Notes payable and current maturities                        $    34,837         $    26,477
   Accounts payable                                                135,612             120,148
   Accrued compensation                                             47,955              42,652
   Income taxes                                                     23,497              30,572
   Other current liabilities                                       166,884             152,643
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES                                     408,785             372,492
                                                               -----------         -----------
Long-term debt                                                     330,800             198,898
Deferred income taxes                                               62,664              36,954
Other liabilities                                                   88,168              87,142
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL LIABILITIES                                             890,417             695,486
                                                               -----------         -----------

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common stock and additional paid-in capital                        167,877             161,678
Accumulated other comprehensive income (expense)                   (47,414)            (50,974)
Retained earnings                                                1,087,031           1,033,770
Treasury stock                                                    (462,542)           (362,772)
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY                                    744,952             781,702
                                                               -----------         -----------
     TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY                $ 1,635,369         $ 1,477,188
                                                               ===========         ===========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


                                      -3-
<PAGE>   4
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                                            SEPTEMBER
(In thousands)                                                        1998              1997
                                                                    ---------         ---------
<S>                                                                 <C>               <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
  Net income                                                        $  83,360         $  99,740
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
   cash provided by operating activities:
     Depreciation                                                      86,684            79,813
     Amortization                                                       8,702             6,842
     Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities                       (991)          (43,258)
     Dividends or distributions from unconsolidated entities               96            49,142
     Deferred income taxes                                             12,107             1,180
     Other, net                                                         7,434             3,557
     Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions
      and dispositions of businesses:
        Accounts receivable                                           (44,955)          (24,875)
        Inventories                                                   (30,405)          (19,187)
        Accounts payable                                               (1,310)           (1,265)
        Other assets and liabilities                                  (30,558)           (1,059)
                                                                    ---------         ---------

     NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES (1)                     90,164           150,630
                                                                    ---------         ---------

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Expenditures for property, plant and equipment                     (108,703)         (105,742)
  Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired                       (123,584)             -
  Maturities of investments available-for-sale                         40,000              -
  Investments held-to-maturity, net of purchases                        4,010            16,379
  Proceeds from sale of a business                                       -                1,236
  Other investing activities                                           (4,038)            5,631
                                                                    ---------         ---------

     NET CASH (USED) BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES                         (192,315)          (82,496)
                                                                    ---------         ---------

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
  Short-term borrowings, net                                            2,320            12,836
  Current maturities and long-term debt:
   Additions                                                          110,894            56,430
   Reductions                                                         (36,750)          (56,760)
  Cash dividends paid on common stock                                 (30,658)          (29,504)
  Common stock issued-options                                           3,791             5,228
  Common stock acquired for treasury                                  (99,410)          (69,109)
  Other financing activities                                           (1,365)           (1,275)
                                                                    ---------         ---------

     NET CASH (USED) BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES                          (51,178)          (82,154)
                                                                    ---------         ---------

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash                                (1,136)           (1,282)
                                                                    ---------         ---------

Net (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents                          (154,465)          (15,302)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period                      221,565            45,862
                                                                    ---------         ---------

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD                          $  67,100         $  30,560
                                                                    =========         =========
</TABLE>

(1)  Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended
     September 30,1998 includes approximately $13 million of payments related to
     income taxes and certain other liabilities of the discontinued defense
     business.

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


                                      -4-
<PAGE>   5
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
                                   (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
                                                         September 30       September 30
(In thousands)                                         1998      1997      1998      1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
Net income                                            $25,944   $33,228   $83,360   $99,740

Other comprehensive income (expense):
    Foreign currency translation adjustments            9,668    (5,608)    3,532   (18,144)
    Unrealized investment gains, net of deferred            -         -        28         -
    income taxes
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other comprehensive income (expense)                    9,668    (5,608)    3,560   (18,144)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME                            $35,612   $27,620   $86,920   $81,596
============================================================================================
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


                                      -5-
<PAGE>   6
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Commitments and Contingencies:

Discontinued Defense Business - Contingencies

Federal Excise Tax and Other Matters Related to the Five-ton Truck Contract

In 1995, the Company, the United States Army, and the United States Department
of Justice concluded a settlement of Harsco's previously reported claims against
the Army relating to Federal Excise Tax ("FET") arising under a completed 1986
contract for the sale of five-ton trucks to the Army. On September 27, 1995, the
Army paid the Company $49 million in accordance with the settlement terms. The
Company released the Army from any further liability for those claims, and the
Department of Justice released the Company from a threatened action for damages
and civil penalties based on an investigation conducted by the Department's
Commercial Litigation Branch that had been pending for several years.

The settlement preserves the rights of the parties to assert claims and defenses
under the Internal Revenue Code, and rights of the Army and the Company to claim
certain amounts that may be owed by either party to reconcile possible
underpayments or overpayments on the truck contract as part of the formal
contract close-out process.

The settlement does not resolve the claim by the Internal Revenue Service that,
contrary to the Company's position, certain cargo truck models sold by the
Company should be considered to have gross vehicle weights in excess of the
33,000 pound threshold under the Federal Excise Tax law, are not entitled to an
exemption from the Federal Excise Tax under any other theory, and therefore are
taxable. On December 19, 1996, the District Director of the Internal Revenue
Service issued a 30-day letter and examination report (the "Report") that
proposed an increase in Federal Excise Tax of $33.7 million plus penalties of
$6.9 million and applicable interest currently estimated by the Company to be
$41.9 million, primarily on the grounds that those cargo truck models are
subject to the Federal Excise Tax. This proposed increase in Federal Excise Tax
takes into account offsetting credits of $9.2 million, based on a partial
allowance of the Company's $22.9 million claim that certain truck components are
exempt from the Federal Excise Tax. The Report disallowed in full the Company's
additional claim that it is entitled to the entire $52 million of Federal Excise
Tax (plus applicable interest currently estimated by the Company to be $35.3
million) the Company has paid on the five-ton trucks, on the grounds that such
trucks qualify for the Federal Excise Tax exemption applicable to certain
vehicles specially designed for the primary function of off-highway
transportation. In the event that the Company ultimately receives from the
Internal Revenue Service a refund of tax (including applicable interest) with
respect to which the Company has already received reimbursement from the Army,
the refund would be allocated between the Company and the Army. The Company
plans to vigorously contest the findings of the District Director. On March 19,
1997, the Company filed its formal written protest to these findings with the
Internal Revenue Service Office of the Regional Director of Appeals. In October


                                      -6-
<PAGE>   7
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

1998, the Internal Revenue Service and the Company agreed to explore the
possibility of settlement through a nonbinding mediation process to be conducted
under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Service Restructuring and Reform
Act of 1998. If the parties are unable to settle the dispute in mediation, the
case will continue to proceed through the legal process. Although there is risk
of an adverse outcome, the Company believes that the cargo trucks are not
taxable. No recognition has been given in the accompanying financial statements
for the Company's claim with the Internal Revenue Service.

The settlement agreement with the Army preserves the Company's right to seek
reimbursement of after-imposed tax from the Army in the event that the cargo
trucks are determined to be taxable, but the agreement limits the reimbursement
to a maximum of $21 million. Additionally, in an earlier contract modification,
the Army accepted responsibility for $3.6 million of the potential tax, bringing
its total potential responsibility up to $24.6 million.

Under the settlement, the Army agreed that if the cargo trucks are determined to
be taxable, the 1993 decision of the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals
(which ruled that the Company is entitled to a price adjustment to the contract
for reimbursement of FET paid on vehicles that were to be delivered after
October 1, 1988) will apply to the question of the Company's right to
reimbursement from the Army for after-imposed taxes on the cargo trucks. In the
Company's view, application of the 1993 decision will favorably resolve the
principal issues regarding any such future claim by the Company. Therefore, the
Company believes that even if the cargo trucks are ultimately held to be
taxable, the Army would be obligated to reimburse the Company for a majority of
the tax, (but not interest or penalty, if any), resulting in a net maximum
liability for the Company of $9.1 million plus penalties of $6.9 million and
applicable interest currently estimated by the Company to be $41.9 million. The
Company believes it is unlikely that resolution of this matter will have a
material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, however, it could
have a material effect on quarterly or annual results of operations.

M9 Armored Combat Earthmover Claim
The Company and its legal counsel are of the opinion that the U.S. Government
did not exercise option three under the M9 Armored Combat Earthmover (ACE)
contract in a timely manner, with the result that the unit prices for options
three, four and five are subject to renegotiation. Claims reflecting the
Company's position were filed with respect to all options purported to be
exercised, totaling in excess of $60 million plus interest. In February 1998,
the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals denied the Company's claims. The
Company has appealed the decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the
Federal Circuit. No recognition has been given in the accompanying financial
statements for any recovery on these claims.

Other Defense Business Litigation
In 1992, the U.S. Government filed a counterclaim against the Company in a civil
suit alleging violations of the False Claims Act and breach of a contract to
supply M109A2 Self-Propelled


                                      -7-
<PAGE>   8
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

Howitzers. The counterclaim was filed in the United States Claims Court in
response to the Company's claim of approximately $5 million against the
Government for costs incurred on this contract relating to the same issue. In
May 1997, the Court issued a decision in the first phase of the case, denying
the Company's claim for reimbursement and granting the Government's counterclaim
for breach of contract and penalties under the False Claims Act. The Court will
consider the amount of damages and penalties in the next phase of the case, and
the decision will then be subject to the right of appeal. The Government has
filed a brief seeking penalties and treble damages totaling $26 million. The
Company intends to vigorously oppose this claim. The Company and its counsel
believe that resolution of these claims will not have a material adverse effect
on the Company's financial position, however, it could have a material effect on
quarterly or annual results of operations.

In 1992, the United States Government through its Defense Contract Audit Agency
commenced an audit of certain contracts for sale of tracked vehicles by the
Company to foreign governments, which were financed by the United States
Government through the Defense Security Assistance Agency. The Company
cooperated with the audit and responded to a number of issues raised by the
audit. In September 1994, the Company received a subpoena issued by the
Department of Defense Inspector General seeking various documents relating to
sale contracts between the Company and foreign governments which were funded by
the Defense Security Assistance Agency. The Company is continuing to cooperate
and is responding to Government document requests. The Government subsequently
subpoenaed a number of former employees of the Company's divested defense
business to testify before a grand jury and in October 1998 issued a grand jury
subpoena to the Company for additional documents. Based on discussions with the
Government, it appears that the investigation focuses on whether the Company
made improper certifications to the Defense Security Assistance Agency and on
other government contract accounting matters. The Government has not asserted
any claims at this time and it is too early to know whether a claim will be
asserted or what the nature of any such claim would be, however, the Company's
management and its counsel believe it is unlikely that this issue will have a
material adverse effect on the Company's financial position.

Continuing Operations - Contingencies

In June 1994, the shareholder of the Ferrari Group, a Belgium holding company
involved in steel mill services and other activities, filed a legal action in
Belgium against Heckett MultiServ, S.A. and S.E.A.E., subsidiaries of MultiServ
International N.V. (a subsidiary of the Company). The action alleges that these
two subsidiaries breached contracts arising from letters of intent signed in
1992 and 1993 concerning the possible acquisition of the Ferrari Group, claiming
that the subsidiaries were obligated to proceed with the acquisition and failed
to do so. The action seeks damages of 504 million Belgian francs (approximately
U.S. $14.6 million). The Company intends to vigorously defend against the action
and believes that based on conditions contained in the letters of intent and
other defenses it will prevail. The Company


                                      -8-
<PAGE>   9
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

and its counsel believe that it is unlikely that these claims will have a
material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of
operations.

Environmental
The Company is involved in a number of environmental remediation investigations
and clean-ups 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
Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 1998 and December 31, 1997, includes
an accrual of $5.0 million and $3.4 million, respectively, for environmental
matters. The amounts charged to earnings on a pre-tax basis related to
environmental matters totaled $0.6 million for the nine months of 1998 and $0.4
million for the nine months of 1997.

The liability for future remediation costs is evaluated on a quarterly basis.
Actual costs to be incurred at identified sites in future periods may vary from
the estimates, given inherent uncertainties in evaluating environmental
exposures. Subject to the imprecision in estimating future environmental costs,
the Company does not expect that any sum it may have to pay in connection with
environmental matters in excess of the amounts recorded or disclosed above would
have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of
operations.

Other
The Company is subject to various other claims, legal proceedings and
investigations 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 accruals, 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 or results of operations of
the Company.

Financial Instruments and Hedging

The Company has subsidiaries principally operating in North America, Latin
America, Europe and Asia-Pacific. These operations are exposed to fluctuations
in related foreign currencies, in the normal course of business. The Company
seeks to reduce exposure to foreign currency fluctuations, primarily the
European currencies, 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.


                                      -9-
<PAGE>   10
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

The Company enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge transactions
on its non-U.S. subsidiaries, for firm commitments to purchase equipment and for
export sales denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts generally are
for 90 to 180 days or less. For those contracts that hedge an identifiable
transaction, gains or losses are deferred and accounted for as part of the
underlying transactions. The cash flows from these contracts are classified
consistent with the cash flows from the transaction being hedged. The Company
also enters into forward exchange contracts for intercompany foreign currency
commitments. These foreign exchange contracts do not qualify as hedges, and they
are recognized in income based on their fair market value. As of September 30,
1998, the total of all forward exchange contracts amounted to $5.3 million, with
an unfavorable mark-to-market fluctuation of $51,000.

New Financial Accounting Standards Issued

In February 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 132,
"Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits" (SFAS
132), which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 1997.
SFAS 132 revises the required disclosures about pension and other postretirement
benefit plans. The Company plans to adopt SFAS 132 in the fourth quarter of
1998.

In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standard Board issued SFAS No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" (SFAS 133), which
is effective for the fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. SFAS 133
requires that an entity recognize all derivative instruments as either assets or
liabilities on its balance sheet at their fair value. Changes in the fair value
of derivatives are recorded each period in current earnings or other
comprehensive income, depending on whether a derivative is designated as part of
a hedge transaction, and, if it is, the type of hedge transaction. The Company
will adopt SFAS 133 by the first quarter of 2000. Due to the Company's limited
use of derivative instruments, SFAS 133 is not expected to have a material
effect on the financial position or results of operations of the Company.

Acquisitions

In February 1998 the Company acquired EFI Corporation (EFIC) from Racal
Electronics Plc for approximately $7.2 million in cash. EFIC produces
lightweight composite cylinders used extensively in fire fighter breathing
apparatus as well as other industrial and commercial applications. EFIC is
expected to contribute annual sales of approximately $10 million.

In April 1998, the Company completed the acquisition of Faber Prest Plc for
approximately $98 million. Faber Prest is a UK-based provider of mill services
to worldwide steel producers and of integrated logistics services to the steel
industry and other market sectors. For the year ended September 30, 1997, Faber
Prest recorded sales of approximately $137 million.


                                      -10-
<PAGE>   11
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

In June 1998, the Company completed the acquisition of Chemi-Trol Chemical
Company for approximately $46 million in cash. Chemi-Trol's principal business
is the production and distribution of steel pressure tanks for the storage of
propane gas and anhydrous ammonia. Chemi-Trol had sales of approximately $50
million in 1997.

In October 1998, the Company completed the acquisition of Superior Valve Company
from Amcast Industrial Corporation. Superior Valve designs, manufactures, and
sells high pressure, precision valves for a range of commercial and industrial
applications. Superior Valve had annual sales of approximately $40 million for
fiscal 1997.

The Company's planned acquisition of Charter plc's Pandrol Jackson railway track
maintenance business, announced in February 1998, is currently awaiting
favorable completion of pre-merger review by the United States Department of
Justice.

Planned Sale of Non-Core Operations

On July 7, 1998, the Company announced plans to sell certain of its smaller
businesses. The operations to be sold include Nutter Engineering, a designer and
manufacturer of mass transfer equipment for the refining and petrochemical
industries; Astralloy Wear Technology, which produces wear-resistant steel
components for a variety of industrial uses; and France-based HydroServ SAS,
which provides specialized industrial cleaning services, largely for the western
European market. Altogether, these businesses accounted for 1997 sales of
approximately $55 million. 

On October 30, 1998 the Company completed the sale of Nutter Engineering to 
the Sulzer Chemtech division of Swiss-based Sulzer Technology Corporation.


                                      -11-
<PAGE>   12
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Cont'd.)

Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Shares

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              Three Months Ended                     Nine Months Ended
                                                  September 30                          September 30
(Dollars in thousands, except per share)     1998              1997               1998                1997
                                         -----------        -----------        -----------        -----------
<S>                                      <C>                <C>                <C>                <C>
Income from continuing operations        $    25,944        $    27,741        $    83,360        $    70,623
                                         ===========        ===========        ===========        ===========

Average shares of common stock
     outstanding used to compute
     basic earnings per common
     share                                45,781,560         48,724,238         46,300,410         49,104,086

Additional common shares to be
     issued assuming exercise of
     stock options, net of shares
     assumed reacquired                      318,939            501,349            402,941            448,945
                                         -----------        -----------        -----------        -----------

Shares used to compute dilutive
     effect of stock options              46,100,499         49,225,587         46,703,351         49,553,031
                                         ===========        ===========        ===========        ===========

Basic earnings per common share
   from continuing operations            $       .57        $       .57        $      1.80        $      1.44
                                         ===========        ===========        ===========        ===========

Diluted earnings per common share
   from continuing operations            $       .56        $       .56        $      1.78        $      1.42
                                         ===========        ===========        ===========        ===========
</TABLE>

 Opinion of Management:

Financial information furnished herein, which is unaudited, reflects in the
opinion of management all adjustments (all of which are of a recurring nature)
that are necessary to present a fair statement of the interim period.


                                      -12-
<PAGE>   13
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY

Net cash provided by operating activities was $90.2 million in the first nine
months of 1998 compared with $150.6 million in 1997. Excluding cash transactions
relating to the discontinued defense business, operating cash flows of $103.1
million for the nine months of 1998 approximated the nine months of 1997. Cash
flows from operating activities in 1998 were lowered by $13 million due to
payments for income taxes and certain other liabilities related to the
discontinued defense business. In 1997, cash flows were significantly increased
by $49.1 million in distributions from the discontinued defense business.

Capital expenditures for the nine months of 1998 were a record $108.7 million
compared with $105.7 million in 1997. These investments reflect the Company's
continuing program to achieve business growth and to improve productivity and
product quality. Also, in the nine months of 1998, $123.6 million of cash was
used to purchase EFI Corporation, Faber Prest Plc, and Chemi-Trol Chemical Co.

The Company has maintained a policy of reacquiring its common stock in
unsolicited open market or privately-negotiated transactions at prevailing
market prices for several years. In November 1997, the Board of Directors
authorized the purchase, over a one-year period, of up to 2,000,000 shares of
the Company's common stock. In June 1998, the Board of Directors authorized the
purchase of up to 1,000,000 additional shares of common stock through December
31, 1998. Also, in September 1998 the Board of Directors authorized the purchase
of an additional 2,000,000 shares of common stock. The total number of shares
purchased under these programs for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 was
2,737,549 for approximately $99.3 million. Due to the timing of actual payments
for the purchase of common stock, the cash flow used by financing activities was
approximately $99.4 million. Remaining authorized shares to be purchased as of
September 30, 1998 total 1,323,710.

For the nine months of 1998 cash and cash equivalents decreased $154.5 million
to $67.1 million.

Other matters which could affect cash flows in the future are discussed under
Part 1, item 1 "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements."

The Company continues to maintain a good financial position, with net working
capital of $234.6 million, a decrease from the $341.2 million at December 31,
1997. The decrease of $106.6 million relates principally to cash used to acquire
businesses and for stock repurchases. Current assets amounted to $643.4 million,
and current liabilities were $408.8 million, resulting in a current ratio of 1.6
to 1, compared with 1.9 to 1 at December 31, 1997. With debt of $365.6 million
and equity of $745.0 million at September 30, 1998, the debt as a percent of
total capital was 32.9%, compared with 22.4% at December 31, 1997.


                                      -13-
<PAGE>   14
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

The stock price ranged from $23.00 to $47.25 per share during the first nine
months of 1998. Harsco's book value per share at September 30, 1998 was $16.76,
compared with $16.64 at December 31, 1997. The Company's annualized return from
continuing operations on average equity for the nine months of 1998 was 14.4%
compared with 14.9% for the nine months of 1997. The annualized return from
continuing operations on average assets was 13.3% compared with 14.1% for the
nine months of 1997. The annualized return from continuing operations on average
capital for the nine months was 11.7% compared with 11.8% for the nine months of
1997.

The Company has available, through a syndicate of banks, a $400 million
multi-currency five-year revolving credit facility, extending through July 2001.
This facility serves as back-up to the Company's commercial paper program. As of
September 30, 1998, there were no borrowings outstanding under this facility.

The Company has a U.S. commercial paper borrowing program under which it can
issue up to $300 million of short-term notes in the U.S. commercial paper
market. In addition, the Company has a 3 billion Belgian Franc program,
equivalent to approximately US $87 million. The Belgian program can be used to
borrow a variety of European currencies in order to fund the Company's European
operations more efficiently and in appropriate currencies. The Company limits
the aggregate commercial paper and syndicated credit facility borrowings at any
one time to a maximum of $400 million. At September 30, 1998, the Company had
$126.8 million of commercial paper debt outstanding under the commercial paper
programs.

The Company's outstanding long-term notes are rated A by Standard & Poor's, A by
Fitch IBCA and A-3 by Moody's. The Company's commercial paper is rated A-1 by
Standard & Poor's, F-1 by Fitch IBCA and P-2 by Moody's. The Company also has on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a Form S-3 shelf registration
for the possible issuance of up to an additional $200 million of new debt
securities, preferred stock or common stock.

As indicated by the above, the Company's financial position and debt capacity
should enable it to meet its current and future requirements. As additional
resources are needed, the Company should be able to obtain funds readily and at
competitive costs.


                                      -14-
<PAGE>   15
                 HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                        PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THIRD QUARTER OF 1998 COMPARED
WITH THIRD QUARTER OF 1997

Third quarter revenues of $446.2 million were 10% above 1997's comparable
period. The increase was due to the inclusion of acquired companies for 1998.
Inclusion of the acquired companies resulted in revenue increases over 1997 for
metal reclamation and mill services and gas control and containment products.
Additionally, process equipment products had increased revenues, while pipe
fittings, scaffolding, shoring and forming services and railway maintenance of
way equipment products had decreased revenues. Excluding the adverse foreign
currency translation effect of the strengthening U.S. dollar, revenues from
continuing operations for the third quarter of 1998 were 11% above the third
quarter of 1997.

Cost of products and services sold increased principally due to the inclusion of
acquired companies for 1998. Selling, general and administrative expenses
decreased slightly due to the results of cost reduction measures, which more
than offset the inclusion of acquired companies.

Income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest
increased 2% from 1997. This is due principally to the inclusion of an acquired
metal reclamation and mill services company's results. Additionally, income was
positively affected by the improved performance of railway maintenance of way
equipment and process equipment products. These increases were partially offset
by lower results for gas control and containment products and start-up losses of
the recently acquired medical waste disposal services business. The Company's
third quarter results for 1998 were adversely affected by the Asian economic
crisis. That crisis contributed to reduced sales and income in our Asian
operations, lower exports for certain operations in the United States, and
reduced margins of certain domestic operations adversely affected by foreign
imports.

Interest income increased due to higher cash available for international
investment purposes. Interest expense in the United States increased due to
financing required for the Company's stock repurchase program.

The effective income tax rate for continuing operations for 1998 was 37% versus
31.3% in 1997. The increase is due principally to certain non-recurring tax
benefits recorded for the third quarter of 1997.

Income from continuing operations of $25.9 million was down 6% from 1997. This
is due to the higher effective tax rate for 1998. Basic earnings per common
share from continuing operations was $.57, equal to 1997. Diluted earnings per
common share from continuing operations was $.56, equal to 1997.


                                      -15-
<PAGE>   16
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

Net income of $25.9 million was below 1997 which included $5.5 million income
from the discontinued defense business. Diluted earnings per common share was
$.56, down from $.67 in 1997, which included $.11 related to the discontinued
defense business.

Sales of the Metal Reclamation and Mill Services Group, at $200.5 million, were
above 1997 due to the inclusion of an acquired company. Sales of the Process
Industry Products Group, at $155.5 million, were above 1997 due principally to
the inclusion of sales from acquired companies and increased sales of process
equipment. Sales of the Infrastructure and Construction Group, at $89.7 million,
were below 1997 due principally to lower sales of railway maintenance of way
equipment and of scaffolding, shoring and forming services.

Operating profit of the Metal Reclamation and Mill Services Group, at $29.6
million, exceeded 1997 due to the inclusion of an acquired company and improved
performance of certain international operations. Operating profit of the Process
Industry Products Group, at $13.2 million, was below 1997 due to decreased
demand for gas control and containment equipment, start-up losses of the medical
waste disposal services business and, to a lesser extent, reduced demand for
pipe fittings. Operating profit of the Infrastructure and Construction Group, at
$9.3 million, was above 1997 due to improved results for railway maintenance of
way equipment.

In addition to the Group reporting noted above, the Company views itself as a
diversified industrial services and engineered products company. Total
industrial service sales, which include the Metal Reclamation and Mill Services
and Infrastructure and Construction Group service businesses, principally
scaffolding, forming and shoring services and railway maintenance of way
services, were $227.3 million in 1998 and $197.3 million in 1997, or
approximately 51% and 48% of net sales, respectively. Total engineered products
sales for 1998, which include sales of the Reed Minerals Division of the Metal
Reclamation and Mill Services Group, product sales of the Infrastructure and
Construction Group and the Process Industry Products Group, were $218.3 million
in 1998 and $209.7 million in 1997, or approximately 49% and 52% of net sales,
respectively.

The operating profit for industrial services for 1998 was $27.9 million compared
with $26.6 million in 1997, or approximately 55% of total Group operating profit
for both years. The operating profit for engineered products for 1998 was $22.4
million compared with $21.7 million in 1997, or approximately 45% of total Group
operating profit for both years.


                                      -16-
<PAGE>   17
                 HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                        PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1998 COMPARED
WITH FIRST NINE MONTHS OF 1997

Revenues from continuing operations for the first nine months of 1998 of $1.3
billion were 6% above last year's comparable period. The increase was due to the
inclusion of acquired companies in the first nine months of 1998. Inclusion of
the acquired companies increased revenues for metal reclamation and mill
services and gas control and containment equipment. Process equipment product
sales also increased. Sales of scaffolding, shoring and forming services
increased, but to a lesser extent. These increases were partially offset by
lower sales for pipe fittings and grating. Excluding the adverse foreign
exchange translation effect of the strengthening U.S. dollar, revenues from
continuing operations for the first nine months of 1998 were approximately 9%
above the first nine months of 1997.

Cost of products and services sold increased due to the inclusion of acquired
companies. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased as a result of
continuing efforts to reduce expenses, which more than offset the inclusion of
acquired companies.

Income from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interest
increased 15% from 1997 due principally to improved performance. Increased
earnings from continuing operations in 1998 were due principally to improved
results for scaffolding, shoring and forming services, process equipment, and
metal reclamation and mill services, as well as the inclusion of acquired
companies. These increases were partially offset by lower results for gas
control and containment equipment and pipe fittings, as well as start-up losses
associated with the recently acquired medical waste disposal services business.

The Company's results have been adversely affected by the Asian economic crisis.
That crisis contributed to reduced sales and income in our Asian operations,
lower exports for certain operations in the United States, and reduced margins
of certain domestic operations adversely affected by foreign imports. Also
included in the first nine months of 1998 were $1.6 million of net foreign
currency translation/transaction losses, principally due to the weakening of the
Mexican peso in relation to the U.S. dollar, as compared with $.6 million of net
foreign currency translation/transaction gains in 1997.

Interest income increased in 1998 due to the investment of cash received from
the disposal of the Company's defense business in the fourth quarter of 1997.
Interest expense increased in 1998 as a result of increased borrowings due to
the Company's share repurchase program and the financing of acquisitions.

The effective income tax rate for continuing operations for 1998 was 37% versus
38% in 1997. The reduction in the income tax rate is due principally to lower
effective income tax rates on state, as well as international earnings.


                                      -17-
<PAGE>   18
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

Income from continuing operations was up 18% from 1997. Basic earnings per
common share from continuing operations of $1.80 were up 25% from 1997.

Net income of $83.4 million for the first nine months of 1998 was below 1997
which included $29.1 million of income from discontinued operations related to
the Company's divested defense business. Basic earnings per common share were
$1.80, down from $2.03 in 1997. Diluted earnings per common share were $1.78,
down from $2.01 in 1997.

Sales of the Metal Reclamation and Mill Services Group, at $568 million, were
above 1997's first nine months, despite the adverse effect of foreign exchange
translation. The increase was due to the inclusion of an acquired company as of
the second quarter of 1998. Sales of the Process Industry Products Group, at
$458 million, increased from 1997 due to the inclusion of sales of three
acquired companies and due to increased sales for process equipment. Sales of
the Infrastructure and Construction Group, at $277 million, decreased slightly
from 1997. Sales of scaffolding, shoring and forming services were above 1997,
however, sales of grating products were down from 1997.

Operating profit of the Metal Reclamation and Mill Services Group, at $86.3
million, exceeded 1997 despite the adverse foreign exchange translation effect
of the strong U.S. dollar. Operating profit of the Process Industry Products
Group, at $45.5 million, was slightly above last year's comparable period due
principally to improved results for process equipment. Results improved despite
the inclusion of start-up losses associated with the medical waste disposal
services business. Operating profit in 1998 of the Infrastructure and
Construction Group, at $26.6 million, was significantly above 1997. The increase
is due to improved results for scaffolding, shoring and forming services.

In addition to the Group reporting noted above, the Company views itself as a
diversified industrial services and engineered products company. Total
industrial service sales, which include metal reclamation and mill services, as
well as scaffolding, forming, and shoring services and railway maintenance of
way services, were $653.1 million in 1998 and $585.3 million in 1997, or
approximately 50% and 48% of net sales, respectively. Excluding the adverse
effect of foreign exchange translation of the strengthening U.S. dollar, total
industrial service sales were approximately 15% above last year's comparable
period. The total engineered products sales for 1998 were $649.8 million, or
approximately 50% of net sales compared to $638.7 million in 1997, or 52% of net
sales. Engineered products include sales of the Reed Minerals Division in the
Metal Reclamation and Mill Services Group, and product sales of the
Infrastructure and Construction Group and the Process Industry Products Group.

The operating profit for industrial services for 1998 was $86.9 million compared
with $75.9 million in 1997, or approximately 56% and 54%, respectively, of total
Group operating profit. The operating profit from engineered products for 1998
was $69.3 million compared with


                                      -18-
<PAGE>   19
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

$64.3 million in 1997, which included a $1.4 million loss on the disposal of the
Company's shell and tube business. These amounts are approximately 44% and 46%,
respectively, of total Group operating profit. The increased percentage of
industrial services profit results principally from improved performance over
1997 for scaffolding, shoring and forming services as well as metal reclamation
and mill services.

Year 2000 Readiness

The Year 2000 Problem can be traced to the early days of computers, when memory
and data storage were very expensive. To conserve these limited resources,
computer programmers decided to use just two digits in date fields to identify
calendar year. Accordingly, 1999 is identified as "99." The assumption is that
the date is within the twentieth century. In the Year 2000 this assumption will
be invalid and some systems will not properly recognize dates. On January 1,
2000, many computer programs in mainframe, microcomputer, client/server,
personal computer, and embedded systems may recognize the year "00" as 1900
rather than 2000. Because many computer functions are date-sensitive, this error
may cause systems to process data inaccurately or shut down if they do not
recognize the date. If not corrected, many computer applications could fail or
create erroneous results as of or prior to the Year 2000. Errors may occur in
chronological sorting, in date comparisons, duration calculations, and other
time and date-sensitive processing.

The Company is taking steps to ensure its operations will not be adversely
impacted by potential Year 2000 computer failures. The Year 2000 readiness
project is overseen by the senior management of the Company with regular
progress reports made to the Board of Directors. Year 2000 Readiness teams have
been working at various levels within the Company, as well as coordinating tasks
common to the total Company. The Year 2000 readiness process generally includes
the following phases: identification and assessment; replacement, remediation
and testing; implementation; and contingency planning for high risk mission
critical areas.

The Company has determined that it will be necessary to modify, upgrade or
replace portions of its software so that its computer applications will properly
utilize dates beyond December 31, 1999, and has developed a plan to implement
such modifications, upgrades, and replacements. The majority of the software
which is not Year 2000 ready is currently being updated through normal software
upgrades and replacements.

It is currently estimated by the Company that the major information technology
system improvements will be implemented principally by mid-1999. Most business
units have already made significant progress in this regard. Most replacement
software has been purchased from vendors who have asserted that their software
is Year 2000 ready. Our implementation process includes provisions for testing
of Year 2000 readiness of mission critical applications.


                                      -19-
<PAGE>   20
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

Additionally, our process includes an overall Year 2000 readiness assessment of
major business partners including information technology vendors.

Included within the scope of our Year 2000 readiness plan is the assessment of
non-information technology systems including operations' and production
equipment with embedded chips. Our assessment process generally includes
inventorying such equipment and making a determination as to the Year 2000
readiness status of critical items. Our assessment is estimated to be complete
by the first quarter of 1999. No Year 2000 modifications or replacements of a
material nature have been identified for non-information technology systems.

The Company is also engaged in communications with its significant business
partners, suppliers and major customers to determine the extent to which the
Company is vulnerable to such third parties' failure to address their own Year
2000 issues. The Company's assessment is based on information currently
available to the Company from such third parties. The Company is also seeking
assurances from the third parties that their computer applications will not fail
due to Year 2000 problems. It is estimated that the assessment process will be
materially complete by the first quarter of 1999. No significant third parties
have indicated that they will not be Year 2000 ready by December 31, 1999.

Based on its assessment of presently available information, the Company's cost
to complete its Year 2000 readiness program is currently estimated to be $2
million. However, there can be no certainty that all Year 2000 failures will be
avoided, nor that the costs will be within the range of the Company's current
estimates.

The Company currently believes that its major Year 2000 risk relates to the
performance and readiness status of outside parties, principally utilities
providing power and communication networks to Company facilities and operations.
The impact of a related failure on the Company's financial position or results
of operations cannot be estimated. Management has also engaged the Company's
Internal Audit Department to perform Year 2000 readiness audits and to identify
other material Year 2000 risks.

The Company is taking steps to mitigate the risk of material impact of Year 2000
computer failures on its operations via the development of contingency plans.
Contingency plans are currently being developed for those high risk mission
critical applications, functions and resources. Such plans will include detailed
alternative operating procedures to be invoked upon confirmation of a critical
Year 2000 computer failure. The plans will be updated as necessary as new
information becomes available prior to 2000.


                                      -20-
<PAGE>   21
                   HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (Cont'd.)

Euro Currency Conversion

On January 1, 1999, certain countries of the European Union are scheduled to
establish fixed conversion rates between their existing currencies and one
common currency, the euro. The euro will then trade on currency exchanges and
may be used in business transactions. Beginning in January 2002, new
euro-denominated currencies will be issued and the existing local currencies
will be withdrawn from circulation by July 1, 2002. The Company is in the
process of arranging euro bank accounts and modifying certain loan arrangements
for the conversion to the euro currency and is evaluating other systems and
business issues raised by the euro conversion. These issues include the need to
adapt computer and other business systems and equipment and the long-term
competitive implications of conversion. In 1997, the Company derived
approximately 19% of its sales from the European geographic area, including
non-European Union countries. The Company has not completed its assessment of
the potential impact of the euro conversion. However, at present the Company
believes the euro conversion will not have a material effect on the Company's
financial position or results of operations.

Safe Harbor Statement

The nature of the Company's operations and the many countries in which it
operates subject it to changing economic, competitive, regulatory, and
technological conditions, risks, and uncertainties. In accordance with the "safe
harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the
Company provides the following cautionary remarks regarding important factors
which, among others, could cause future results to differ materially from the
forward-looking statements, expectations and assumptions expressed or implied
herein. These include statements about our management confidence and strategies
for performance, expectations for new and existing products, technologies, and
opportunities; and expectations for market segment and industry growth, sales,
and earnings.

These factors include, but are not limited to: (1) changes in the world-wide
business environment in which the Company operates, including import, licensing
and trade restrictions, currency exchange rates, interest rates, and capital
costs; (2) changes in governmental laws and regulations, including taxes; (3)
market and competitive changes, including market demand and acceptance for new
products, services, and technologies; (4) effects of unstable governments and
business conditions in emerging economies; and (5) other risk factors listed
from time to time in the Company's SEC reports. The Company does not intend to
update this information and disclaims any legal liability to the contrary.


                                      -21-
<PAGE>   22
                 HARSCO CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES
                         PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The discussion of legal proceedings in Part I under the heading "Commitments and
Contingencies" is incorporated into Part II.

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION

DIVIDEND INFORMATION:

Dividends declared for the third quarter of 1998 and 1997 were 22 cents and 20
cents, respectively. Year to date dividends declared at September 30, 1998 and
1997 were 66 cents and 60 cents, respectively.

ITEM 6(a).  EXHIBITS

The following exhibits are attached:

a.)  Exhibit No. 12 Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
b.)  Exhibit No. 27 Financial Data Schedule.

ITEM 6(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

a.)  There were no reports filed on form 8-K during the third quarter ending
     September 30, 1998.


                                      -22-
<PAGE>   23
                                   SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.



                                                       HARSCO CORPORATION
                                                --------------------------------
                                                          (Registrant)


DATE  November 2, 1998                          /S/Salvatore D. Fazzolari
    --------------------------------            --------------------------------
                                                Salvatore D. Fazzolari
                                                Senior Vice President and
                                                Chief Financial Officer


DATE  November 2, 1998                          /S/Stephen J. Schnoor
    --------------------------------            --------------------------------
                                                Stephen J. Schnoor
                                                Vice President and Controller


                                      -23-
<PAGE>   24
                                EXHIBIT INDEX
                                -------------


Exhibit No. 12    -     Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges.

Exhibit No. 27    -     Financial Data Schedule.



















                                     -24-

<PAGE>   1
                               HARSCO CORPORATION
                                                                      Exhibit 12
               Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges

                            (In Thousands of Dollars)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               Nine Months
                                                 Ended                         YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                9/30/98        1997         1996         1995         1994         1993
                                                ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------
<S>                                             <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>      
Consolidated Earnings:

    Pre-tax income from continuing
         operations (net of minority interest
         in net income)                         $ 134,838    $ 165,613    $ 145,984    $ 107,073    $  84,197    $  70,116

    Add fixed charges computed below               20,016       24,263       26,181       33,121       37,982       23,879

    Net adjustments for equity companies             (895)        (694)        (181)        (466)        (134)        (363)

    Net adjustments for capitalized
         interest                                      (3)      -               -           -            (274)        (172)
                                                ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------

Consolidated Earnings Available for
    Fixed Charges                               $ 153,956    $ 189,182    $ 171,984    $ 139,728    $ 121,771    $  93,460
                                                =========    =========    =========    =========    =========    =========

Consolidated Fixed Charges:

    Interest expense per financial
         statements (1)                         $  14,143    $  16,741    $  21,483    $  28,921    $  34,048    $  19,974

    Interest expense capitalized                       96          128          131          134          338          332

    Portion of rentals (1/3) representing
         an interest factor                         5,777        7,394        4,567        4,066        3,596        3,573

    Interest expense for equity companies
         whose debt is guaranteed (2)                -            -            -           -            -           -
                                                ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------    ---------

    Consolidated Fixed Charges                  $  20,016    $  24,263    $  26,181    $  33,121    $  37,982    $  23,879
                                                =========    =========    =========    =========    =========    =========

Consolidated Ratio of Earnings to
    Fixed Charges                                    7.69         7.80         6.57         4.22         3.21         3.91
                                                =========    =========    =========    =========    =========    =========
</TABLE>

(1)      Includes amortization of debt discount and expense.

(2)      No fixed charges were associated with debt of less than fifty percent
         owned companies guaranteed by the Company during the five year period
         1993 through 1997, and the nine months ended September 30, 1998.

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   9-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1998
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1998
<CASH>                                          67,100
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  351,571
<ALLOWANCES>                                   (7,683)
<INVENTORY>                                    175,195
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               643,416
<PP&E>                                       1,423,695
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