Rim exit devices play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of buildings, particularly in high-traffic areas. These devices, commonly referred to as panic bars or push bars, allow for a swift and secure means of exit in emergencies. If you’ve ever exited a commercial building through a door with a horizontal bar, you’ve likely encountered a rim exit device in action.
This post dives deep into what rim exit devices are, their key features, where they’re most commonly used, and how to choose the right one for specific scenarios. Whether you’re a building manager, architect, or facility administrator, understanding these devices is essential for enhancing both safety and compliance.
What is a Rim Exit Device?
A rim exit device is a type of exit hardware installed on the surface of a door that allows individuals to unlock and open the door by pressing a horizontal bar. Designed primarily for outward-swinging doors, these devices are widely used in settings where quick and easy exits are vital during emergencies.
The primary purpose of a rim exit device is to ensure seamless egress while maintaining the building’s security. They are engineered to balance durability with ease of operation, making them reliable in high-pressure situations like fire evacuations or other emergencies.
Why Are Rim Exit Devices Important?
Emergencies demand immediate action, and rim exit devices cater to this need by enabling rapid exit. More than just a convenience, these devices meet stringent safety standards and align with building codes aimed at protecting human lives. Additionally, they help deter unauthorized access to restricted areas, adding a layer of security to your property.
Key Features of Rim Exit Devices
The following are some critical features that set them apart as an indispensable safety solution:
1. Ease of Installation
One of the standout benefits of rim exit devices is their surface-mounted design, which makes them relatively straightforward to install. Unlike recessed hardware, rim devices do not require extensive door modifications, which not only cuts down installation time but also reduces labor costs.
2. Durability and Reliability
They are highly resistant to wear, making them an excellent choice for doors with heavy foot traffic, such as those in commercial or institutional spaces.
3. Wide Range of Compatibility
 They are compatible with different door materials, including wood, metal, and composite, further enhancing their utility.
4. Compliance with Safety Standards
Rim exit devices are crafted to meet local fire codes and safety regulations. Many of these devices are UL-certified for fire safety or labeled for panic exit use, ensuring facilities remain compliant with federal, state, and local building codes.
5. Accessibility Features
Equipped with ADA-compliant designs, most rim exit devices are user-friendly and ensure that people of all abilities can safely exit the premises. This focus on inclusivity makes businesses compliant with regulations like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Common Applications of Rim Exit Devices
The versatility of rim exit devices allows them to meet safety and operational requirements across various environments, including:
1. Commercial Buildings
Office spaces, retail stores, and shopping malls rely on rim exit devices for secure exits. These locations often see heavy daily use, and panic bars ensure that customers and employees can safely exit during an unexpected event.
2. Educational Facilities
Schools and universities prioritize safety due to the high concentration of students and staff. Rim exit devices facilitate efficient evacuations, while also preventing unauthorized individuals from entering the building through secured doors.
3. Healthcare Institutions
 Rim exit devices cater to these needs by balancing controlled access with ease of use for patients, visitors, and staff during emergencies.
4. Hospitality and Entertainment Venues
Concert halls, theaters, and stadiums house large crowds, making quick egress critical. Rim exit devices not only ensure compliance with fire codes but also help manage large-scale evacuations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Rim Exit Device
Selecting the right rim exit device for your facility is essential to ensure both safety and practicality. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Understand Your Building’s Requirements
Evaluate the type of building, its layout, and the expected traffic flows. Larger facilities with more occupants may require multiple devices installed at strategic exit points to meet safety mandates.
2. Check Local Building Codes
Always ensure that the rim exit device meets your area’s safety and fire regulations. Non-compliance can lead to legal consequences and safety risks.
3. Consider Material Durability
If the door is located in a high-traffic or industrial environment, opt for a rim exit device made of heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant materials.
4. Accessibility and ADA Compliance
Select devices that feature low operating force to comply with accessibility standards, ensuring that all users can easily operate them.
5. Upgrade Options
Look for rim exit devices that allow integration with other security systems, such as alarms or electronic access controls.
Enhancing Building Safety with Rim Exit Devices
Rim exit devices are more than just hardware—they’re your building’s first line of defense in emergencies. By ensuring quick egress, complying with regulatory standards, and providing robust durability, these devices enhance safety while fitting seamlessly into diverse environments. Whether it’s safeguarding students in a school or managing evacuation routes in a hospital, the right rim exit device acts as a pivotal safety solution.