Hand tools may seem like simple items that can't do you much harm unless you really screw up, but it doesn't take much to cause an injury like carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which can sneak up on you as you use the tools more and more. Preventing injuries when using these tools doesn't require a lot of strenuous effort, but it does require attention. Take these three steps when you use hand tools, and you can help reduce your chances of both long- and short-term injuries.

Take Breaks

The simple, short break is key in preventing chronic injuries like CTS. If you keep using a tool over and over again, you can stress out the muscles and tendons, especially if you've been using some force with the tools. It's like stripping a screw head little by little; eventually you find that the screw is just too worn down to be of use. Unfortunately, in the case of your hands and arms, that wearing down can lead to a lot of pain. Taking a break allows your muscles and tendons to relax and lets you stretch a bit, which can help keep your body in much better shape.

Wear Gloves

It's all too easy to accidentally scrape or cut your hands with hand tools. A screwdriver can slip, the grips on old pliers can irritate your skin, a hammer can end up bashing the fingers on your other hand, and so on. Thick work gloves add a very welcome layer of protection that prevents most tools from hurting your hands (saws, obviously, are a special case). Even blows from a hammer may not feel as bad if you have cushioning provided by a work glove.

Shift Positions

Sometimes the task you're doing is easy, but it involves sitting or standing in one position for a prolonged period of time. For example, hammering nails into boards for shelving one after another. Along with taking a break, shift the position you're in so that you place less stress on various muscles or bones. For instance, after you've been doing the task for a short time, take a break, and when you come back to the task, sit if you've been standing or stand if you've been sitting. Or, simply readjust your chair so that your body is in a slightly different position. You can also move the task to another location -- with shelves, for example, you can move them to another work surface that is taller or shorter than the last one you were using.

These tactics do require some planning and memory skills (you have to remember to take breaks, and so on), but they won't interfere with your work. You can also talk to the company that provides your hand tools to see if they have other suggestions, such as replacing grips or getting tools that weigh less.