Three stairs stood in front of the Menorah. These stairs, made of stone, were used by the priests who tended to the lights of the Menorah. Since the Menorah was the height of an average man, it was necessary to climb these stairs in order to reach the lamps of the Menorah conveniently. These stairs were especially necessary for the High Priest, since it was forbidden for him to raise his hands above the height of the golden crown he wore on his forehead, which bore the words kodesh L'Hashem, "Holiness unto the L-rd." The tongs and the oil jar were placed on the second stair after the lamps were prepared. (Source: Tamid 3,9) 
The Menorah: Candles & Wicks
Contents:   Part I,    Part II,    Part III,    Part IV,    Part V,    Part VI,    Part VII