I'm not an enterprise DBA, but I support a couple of applications with off-farm SQL instances. SQL has been rock-solid for the duration of my tenure; most middle-of-the-night calls result from application snafus.

I have to give a huge "THIS" to proper development and code promotion procedures. SQL isn't excused. Adopt a strong test and promotion methodology, and stick to it. At my current job, this isn't an option and is mandated by regulation, so you can be sure it's followed without exception.

If your company doesn't have controls and your cowboy developers can run roughshod over the production environment, become a champion for controls and methods. Do it now.