Just in case... any MySQL dba's?

Without getting into the nitty gritty double, charset and collation mismatches... are you reading this and you happen to be a MySQL dba?

I've got an issue with lies outside my comfortable boundary, and one I can't reach a personally solid answer to. 

I normally schedule updates with an old work mate, but this is falling badly as he's away so responding via phone. Neither of us are 100% thats a good way to ensure I've covered bases.

Happy to pay for your time, I hope in part to confirm,  or maybe even blow out what I've got planned.

If you can help, please mail me, colin [at] briskoda.net

Thank you in advance.

Colin.