IEC 60793-1-53:2014 provides a practical method for evaluating fibre performance in a defined environment. The purpose of this standard is to define a test that determines the suitability of sub-category A1a to A1d multimode fibres and class B and C single-mode fibres to withstand the environmental condition of immersion in distilled or demineralized water which may occur in actual use, storage and/or transport. The test is primarily intended to permit the observation of effects of immersion in water over a given period. This procedure is conducted in accordance with IEC 60068-2-18, Test R. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition, published in 2001, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: - harmonizing the content with sectional specifications of relevant fibre types; - extending the applicability of the standard to Class C single-mode fibres. Keywords: sub-category A1a to A1d multimode fibres, class B and C single-mode fibres, immersion in distilled or demineralized water