A rapid sandwich enzyme immunoassay format is described where conjugate is lyophilised within the well in which the test reaction will occur. The format is straight forward to manufacture, has a prolonged shelf life, and eliminates one incubation and wash step from the usual test procedure. The technology has been applied to the development of a rapid assay for the identification of snake venom in clinical specimens. The resultant assay was specific and sensitive, provided rapid results and was appropriate for field use.