As already stated by many, Yes, it's perfectly acceptable. Provided it's been applied correctly: In my years as a procedural Approach controller I'd use it "usually" in the following situations.
Two departures, en-route on the same track, slap them both with a ROC restriction, then the number 2 can depart when the first is through a couple of thousand feet. Saves having to wait for the 10/20 miles whichever is applicable. The can then get further unrestricted climb with the neighbouring (radar equipped) sector.
The second scenario is when two acft are on diverging tracks, let's say by 30degrees (off VOR), you can apply ROC until the first has reached the required 10nm. Saves a bit of time...
This is of course a highly simplified explaination and all assosciated laws/logic needs to be taken into account...
