On the western side of the ramp, close to the mizbeach, a silver shovel was kept for the collection of ashes.
A priest would carry this shovel to the top of the mizbeach, collect the burnt coals from the large woodpile and place them in the Place of the Ashes. 
The Sides of the Mizbeach: The Marble and Silver Tables
Contents:   Part I,    Part II,    Part III,    Part IV,    Part V,    Part VI,    Part VII