A Rim Panic Device is surfaced mounted to the door's face where the latch protrudes from the device rather than the edge of the door.

In Rim Exit Devices, a deadlatch prevents the latch from being forcibly retracted from the exterior. Rim exit devices can be equipped with exterior trim. This can be as simple as a Pull Plate with a Rim Cylinder or a lever with a special function such as classroom, nightlatch, or even a non-locking passage function.

For Rim Panic Devices, the strike plate is mounted on the door frame, a mullion for double doors, or the inactive door for double doors without a center mullion. It is the most common type of exit device since it is the easiest to install, especially on existing single doors.

Rim Panic Devices are the most common type for special applications such as Alarmed Panic Devices. Alarm Panic Devices have an integrated alarm in the push rail. Rim exit devices have more room for the circuitry, making them the most common type of panic hardware for doors that need alarms.