The city also dispatched 8,000 toilet maintenance staff, each responsible for a specific restroom to ensure frequent and thorough cleaning. They also received training in hygiene standards and techniques, Olympic knowledge and practical English expressions, says Ma Kangding.

"There are selective inspections every week and the result is revealed on the website of the Municipal Utilities Administration Commission, which will affect the income of the maintenance staff, " says Ma.

Meanwhile, there's a culture clash over which kind of toilet is best.Westerners have been used to seated toilets, which are more comfortable and convenient for the elderly or infirm. The squat, or keyhole, toilets widely used in Chinese public toilets are considered more hygienic as there is no body contact, given the condition of some public toilet seats.

At more than 30 test events held by the games organizers, the squat toilets at many of the new and renovated venues drew frequent complaints from foreigners. Even though the Olympic venues have been completed, there will be a few changes to replace squat commodes with seated toilets.

"Not all of the toilets will be changed, but those for journalists, athletes, and VIPs will be," says Yao Hui, the deputy director of venue management.

Education on properly using toilets is another important task, says Ma Kangding. "The good image of modern toilets will go down the pan if the users don't change their bad habits. Some people still leave shoe prints on the toilet seats, or even take the whole roll of toilet paper away."