Yp_1: Coming from IT Infrastructure background, I don't like to assume anything when it comes to backups :)
Also "backup data somewhere" and "backup data properly" are two different things. So let's hope they have proper staff taking care of the task.
Also coming from an IT background, I cannot agree more, yp_1! There are too many things that can and will go wrong.
Everyone should be aware of the fact that his hard disk will fail some day. The question is not if, but when. So better do backups and do them properly! You could start by reading this article, including following the links: When Your Backup Fails – Disaster Recovery Horror Stories.