A barrier constructed of spaced parallel elements, often metal, designed to control access while allowing visibility and airflow, is commonly referred to as a barred door. These structures function as a security measure, providing a physical obstacle to unauthorized entry. An example includes the entrance to a holding cell within a correctional facility.
The significance of such a barrier lies in its ability to deter unwanted intrusion and maintain security. The open design permits surveillance, enabling personnel to monitor the area behind the barrier without obstruction. Historically, these barriers have been utilized in various settings where confinement and observation are necessary, from prisons and animal enclosures to banks and retail spaces securing valuables.