IEC 60794-1-3:2017(E) is a generic specification covering optical cable elements. Requirements which are described in this document apply to elements of optical fibre cables for use with telecommunication equipment and devices employing similar techniques. The elements which are the subject of this document are those which apply to several cable types of IEC 60794 (all parts) and as defined by sectional specifications IEC 60794-2, IEC 60794-3, IEC 60794‑4, and IEC 60794-5. The requirements for cable elements are described in the IEC 60794-1-3X series for which the IEC 60794-1-31 is the first one, and family specifications and detailed specifications of the aforementioned sectional specifications can define specific cables families and types.