a method is disclosed of installing a barrier device at a passageway . the method includes attaching a barrier housing containing a retractable barrier to a structural element on one side of the passageway , extending the barrier a desired distance from the barrier housing , with the barrier so extended , setting an extension limit of the barrier to prevent subsequent extension of the barrier beyond the desired distance from the barrier housing and , with the extension limit set , retracting the barrier into the housing . the set extension limit can permit subsequent retraction and re - extension of the barrier up to the set extension limit .