What is a common hazard to be aware of when operating heavy machinery?

When operating heavy machinery, being aware of soft soil and grading stakes is crucial because these factors significantly impact stability and safety. Soft soil can affect the equipment's ability to maintain traction and support weight, leading to potential tipping or sinking. Additionally, grading stakes are often used to guide operators in the correct placement of materials or to indicate boundaries on a site. If these stakes are not properly identified or are obscured, it can lead to accidents or damage to equipment.

While strong winds, heavy rain, and excessive noise are also hazards in different contexts, they do not specifically relate to the direct operation and structural stability of heavy machinery in the same way that soft soil and grading stakes do. Understanding the ground conditions and having clear visibility of guide markers is essential for safe maneuvering and operation.