I agree with type S and did over a period of years even for our believe it was 75 seat store front theater convert it to completely S grade. If of help, I firmly believe that type S (especially non-EU complant) cable is by far superior in both
safety and life over that of a type SJ cable no matter the type.
In general, another standpoint would be average service life of a type S cable starts at 10 years and goes to about 20 years. In a cost effective way, type SJ cable normally lasts about five to ten years in use. Even if double the price type S cable is not, it's more cost effective.
On the other
hand, I have only worked where I work ten years now in being the buyer and in many ways ME for wiring, but working under mananagers and boss's also. Yes, I do take responsibility for us using type SJ cable for the primary pourpose of the touring industry and believe it's code compliant for use. It's a touring company and type SJ cable since the days of L5-15 plugs on 14/3 SJOOW cable has had a long change over - first to
stage pin slightly before my time, and me to 12/3 SJ at least in slipping in some SOOW where possible as available for use on shows.
I make the cable but don't pull it or specify it's use for shows. If say some rock band is "Rocking the Paradise", in bringing cable I built or supervise the construction and maintinence of, is using it in a class 1A type theater, I have no say in this nor do I even know while building it at times years before it's use, any imput into how its used. I do where possible educate about the need for type S cable if on the floor or a
drop, but my
build/fix world is also very apart from the production side in application.
A question I think more for the local authorities in allowing it, those specifying the gear to be used, and those using it on-site to choose what's used as compliant. Type S cable is also in
stock or easy enough to construct on request before the show leaves. In no way do I argue that type SJ cable is suitable for a theater requiring proper
stage cable, no do I even prefer the stuff. On the other
hand, I do note it's useage even after broken by way of running it
thru a closed door and destroyed at times. I do tend to ask the crew chief for the show what he or she was thinking in allowing that use as with other things noted unsafe in at times
tracking them down to educate them. More or less a constant
tracking down and yelling at those responsible type of thing in even if as often the case these days, a free lance person having done the show and me contacting the
production manager so as to not re-hire the guy.
Still though, I don't choose the gear, nor do the shows. I cite shows don't comply but also note that most of their fixtures are in the air with compliant
Soco drops to the
deck. Believe type SJ cable supported by a
truss is compliant - but I wouldn't accept it for
house cable in doing so.
Not lecture, debate and good points on your part in also healthy in bringing out from both of us more info or opinion. Hopefully I have explained my situation better and or why I noted what I did.